Safety on Climbing

Physical Preparation for Kilimanjaro Climb

No special skills or mountaineering equipment is need for the Kilimanjaro Climb, but it is strenuous for most people due to the high altitude. Routes have some steep sections and rocks scrambling that are easily manageable for those with hiking experience.

Trekking at high altitudes is much more strenuous than in lower mountains, thus presenting additional physical risks and challenges. Trekkers should be in their best possible shape, so that the ascent can be completed safely and enjoyably.

Any one climbing Kilimanjaro should be as healthy as possible. He or she should have no sore throat, a cold or with breathing problem; should be aware of what food, water and hygienic precautions should be taken to minimize the challenge of developing gastrointestinal problems.

The perfect training routine for those preparing to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro should include the following:

i       Aerobic exercises: which relating to exercise that improves or is intended to improve the efficiency of the body’s cardiovascular system in absorbing and transporting oxygen. In these exercises your heart, lungs, and muscles work overtime.A strong cardiovascular system will help you process limited oxygen in a more efficient way

• Strength exercises: This relates to improving muscular strength by gradually increasing the ability to resist force through the use of free weights, machines, or the person’s own body weight.

Recommended Training

If you are not used to intense exercises we advise to set 3-6 months of exercises. This may include walking / running 5-10 km a day for at least 3 days a week. Long distance walk of five or more hours in up and down terrain and get to wear in your boots will be very helpful. There is nothing worse than arriving in Kilimanjaro with unworn-in boots. This can seriously stymie your summit attempt as you will get blisters and sore feet early on in your hike.

Long distance running, particularly marathons, but half marathons can do the same thing if you are not accustomed to running long distance. This type of activity really requires one to draw on their mental reserves to get to the finish line. Those fit should maintain the regime up to one month before.

Insurance

Climbers are advised to have adequate insurance cover for their entire travelling to Tanzania and specifically for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. Wild Climb will have its own insurance to cover its own risks. Every climber will be required to furnish to Wild Climbs details of his or her insurance for easy communication in case of any emergency situation.