At Chance Venture Tours, your safety and success on Mount Kilimanjaro are our top priorities. Climbing Africa’s highest peak is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure — but it comes with real physical challenges, especially altitude sickness.

What Is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when your body struggles to adapt to the reduced oxygen levels at higher elevations. It can affect anyone  regardless of age, fitness level, or previous hiking experience.

Common symptoms include:

• Headache

• Nausea or vomiting

• Dizziness or fatigue

• Shortness of breath

• Loss of appetite

• Difficulty sleeping

If left untreated, AMS can progress into more severe conditions such as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which can be life-threatening.

How We Help You Prevent It

At Chance Venture Tours, we have decades of experience guiding climbers safely to the summit. Here’s how we help minimize your risk of altitude sickness:

Carefully Selected Routes: We recommend longer routes like Lemosho or Machame, which allow for better acclimatization.

Experienced Guides: Our certified mountain guides are trained to detect and manage symptoms early. They monitor your health daily and make safety-first decisions at every step.

Acclimatization Days: Our itineraries include rest and acclimatization days to help your body adjust gradually to the altitude.

Oxygen & Emergency Support: We carry oxygen and pulse oximeters on all treks, and we’re equipped with evacuation plans in case of emergencies.

Education & Preparation: Before your trek, we’ll guide you through pre-trip training, hydration strategies, and medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) that can aid acclimatization.

Tips to Avoid Altitude Sickness

• Climb slowly. “Pole pole” (slowly, slowly) is the key on Kilimanjaro.

• Hydrate well. Drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily.

• Eat enough. Even if you lose your appetite, fuel your body with high-energy meals.

• Sleep low. “Climb high, sleep low” helps with acclimatization.

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Your Safety Is Our Commitment

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a challenge  but with proper guidance and precautions, it’s absolutely achievable. With Chance Venture Tours, you’re not just climbing a mountain  you’re doing it with a team that puts your health and success above all else.

Have questions or want personalized advice? Contact Us today to speak with our Kilimanjaro specialists.