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Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness

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Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness

Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness which occurs at a height above 2500 metres is the Physical distress from difficulty in adjusting the lower oxygen level at a higher altitude level. Most of the cases of altitude sickness are mild but it can also be life threatening in case of acute mountain sickness in case of acute mountain sickness.

Sumbi Extra Miles Safari experienced Climb Kilimanjaro Guide will help you acclimatize well and check your health daily to detect the signs of altitude sickness. It can be avoided by taking time to acclimatize on the changing climates of the mountain.

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Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that can affect individuals when they ascend to high altitudes, typically above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). It results from the reduced oxygen levels and atmospheric pressure encountered at higher elevations, and understanding its causes, symptoms, and prevention is crucial for those venturing into such environments.

The primary cause of Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness is the decrease in oxygen levels as altitude increases. At higher elevations, the air pressure drops, leading to a reduction in the amount of oxygen available for inhalation. This diminished oxygen supply can result in various physiological responses, contributing to the onset of altitude sickness.

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Symptoms

Altitude sickness can manifest with a range of symptoms, varying in severity. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. These mild symptoms are categorized as acute mountain sickness (AMS). In more severe cases, individuals may experience high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), which can lead to respiratory and neurological complications, respectively.

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Prevention

Gradual Ascent: Climb slowly to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. The "climb high, sleep low" strategy can help.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Acclimatization Days: Take rest days at certain altitudes to allow your body to adapt.

Medications: Medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) can help prevent and reduce symptoms of altitude sickness.

Proper Nutrition: Eat a high-carbohydrate diet to provide energy and support acclimatization.

Avoid Overexertion: Pace yourself and avoid strenuous activity, especially in the first days at high altitude.

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When To Visit Tanzania

Jan to Mar

Beaches, Calves, and Kilimanjaro Ascents

January brings ideal beach weather to Tanzania's coast and Zanzibar, perfect for enjoying soft sand and clear waters. February sees the start of the wildebeest calving season, with predators nearby. March offers excellent conditions for climbing Kilimanjaro, despite the onset of the long rains, which refresh the Ngorongoro Highlands and turn the landscape lush green.

AVG RAINFALL 101 mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 101 mm
MAX TEMP 32 ℃
MIN TEMP 24 ℃

April to May

Rainy Season and Migration Movements

April is the wettest month, featuring afternoon thundershowers and occasional big storms, particularly impacting the western and southern parks with high humidity. Despite the rain, accommodations offer great value. By late May, conditions start drying, coinciding with the Great Migration's move from the southern to the western Serengeti, heralding the approach of the dry season.

AVG RAINFALL 216 mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 12 Hours
MAX TEMP 30 ℃ /
MIN TEMP 22 ℃ /

June to Aug

Dry Season and Peak Wildlife Viewing

June marks the dry season, perfect for luxury safaris as savannahs shift from green to yellow, improving wildlife sightings. The Wildebeest Migration gathers at Grumeti River. In July and August, it reaches the Serengeti's north, preparing for the dramatic Mara River crossings, attracting tourists for exceptional wildlife encounters.

AVG RAINFALL 25mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 11 Hours
MAX TEMP 30 ℃ /
MIN TEMP 19 ℃ /

Sep to Oct

Fewer Crowds, Ideal Climbing Conditions

September's low humidity and fewer mosquitoes make it ideal for climbing Kilimanjaro and observing large elephant herds in Tarangire National Park, coinciding with the start of the fishing season. October brings early rains, enhancing conditions for climbing Mount Meru in Arusha National Park.

AVG RAINFALL 38mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 12 Hours
MAX TEMP 31 ℃ /
MIN TEMP 20 ℃ /

Nov to Dec

Rainy Season, Exceptional Wildlife Viewing

November offers sporadic thundershowers, yet remains an excellent month for safaris, especially in the northern parks and less-explored areas. December, amidst short rains, becomes a prime time for birdwatching with migratory birds arriving and the Great Migration returning to the southern Serengeti's lush plains.

AVG RAINFALL 115mm
AVG DAYLIGHT 12 Hours
MAX TEMP 32 ℃ /
MIN TEMP 23 ℃ /
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