Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), Climbing Kilimanjaro, Altitude sickness on Mt Kilimanjaro, symptoms prevention                                 Call us on: +254 20 342816                                                                                                                                                                                     Email:info@mountkilimanjaroclimbing.com

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Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro Climbing Kilimanjaro, a comprehensive guide to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro by Expert mountaineers. Mt Kilimanjaro: 005.00 degrees south, 036 degrees east, 5895m. Crowned by an eternal snowcap, Mt. Kilimanjaro is situated inside the Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania; it is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth. This guide aims to provide the potential Kilimanjaro climber with valuable and accurate information on climbing Kilimanjaro

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Altitude Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness usually remains Mild until the last few days of the journey when it can become moderate to incredibly severe in some individuals. Moderate AMS symptoms include a shortage of breath even when stationary, vomiting and a severe headache that simply does not subside even with the aid of medication. The only manner in which to successfully treat this form of AMS is to make no further ascent, or possibly descend a couple of meters. Unfortunately, due to time frames this is unlikely to be an option on Kilimanjaro. Many climbers fail to reach the summit as a result of simply feeling too ill to continue their journey.

Severe AMS occurs in approximately 2% of climbers, usually at an altitude of between 4000 and 5000 meters. Symptoms should be treated immediately and include, among others confusion, a staggering gait and loss of co-ordination. Following decent, sufferers should immediately be given oxygen and a combination of drugs including Diamox, Nifedipine and Dexamethasone. Failure to descend and seek treatment will result in a coma almost certainly followed by death.

Provided that individuals are aware of the symptoms of AMS and treat them swiftly, the condition poses no serious threat. When uncertain, climbers should adhere to the following three rules:

• If AMS is even suspected, do not under any circumstances ascend any further.

• Never leave a person suspected of suffering from AMS alone. They may begin to struggle to breathe and have a panic attack, or alternatively develop severe symptoms and need help in descending.

• If symptoms worsen, descend immediately

If all else fails, the golden rule of gaining elevation slowly and descending promptly if one is ill is the simplest and most effective manner in which to ensure a safe and catastrophe free expedition.

 
   
Acute Mountain Sickness

ALTITUDE SICKNESS


Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)


Also referred to as "Altitude Sickness" and as this name indicates, the illnesses is commonly encountered at exceptional high altitudes, such as the summit area of Mount Kilimanjaro. AMS, once apparent, can be most effectively treated by immediately taking the affected person to a lower altitude. Often a drop as little as 500m will be sufficient. The symptoms of AMS include in the order normally experienced; headaches, nausea, anorexia, exhaustion, lassitude, rapid pulse, insomnia, swelling of the hands and feet and reduced urine output. Climbers can take precautions to at least minimise the severity of the illness, by maintaining a slow steady pace from day one, include an extra day of acclimatisation at a high altitude and by drinking at least 3-4 liters of water every day. Preventative medicine is also available and you should consult your physician for specialist advice. Fluid build-up may cause a condition known as edema, which can affect the lungs (pulmonary), preventing effective oxygen exchange, or effect the brain (cerebral) which will result in the swelling of the brain tissue. The latter can be lethal if not treated immediately or if symptoms are ignored. Probably 70% of all people climbing Kilimanjaro will suffer to some extent from AMS. You should familiarise yourself with this condition and take preventative care.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia or exposure is the lowering of the body's core temperature. Once again prevention is the best cause of action. The correct equipment and clothing is critical in the prevention of Hypothermia. Do not allow your clothing to get wet from either rain or perspiration. Click here for more information on the proper layering of clothing to prevent hypothermia. The treatment of hypothermia is relatively simple. Get the victim into a sheltered area as quickly as possible, remove all wet clothing and place the victim inside two or three sleeping bags, preferably with another person to help heat the victim.

Sun related injuries

About 55% of the earths protective atmosphere is below an altitude of 5000m. Far less ultraviolet light is being filtered out, making the sun's rays much more powerful, which could result in severe sun burning of the skin. It is strongly recommended to use a 20+ sun protection cream at lower altitudes, and a total block cream above an altitude of 3000m. It is also important to wear dark sun glasses preferably with side panels above 4000m in daytime and essential when walking through snow or ice. Snow blindness can be very painful, and will require your eyes to be bandaged for at least 24 hours.
Fitness

Any climber who suffers from any cardiac or pulmonary problems should be cautious and should not attempt to climb the mountain unless they have consulted their physician. It is strongly recommended that a physical fitness program is followed to prepare your self physically for the mountain.

Feet problems

Poor fitting, new or little used boots will result in blistering feet. Even if boots are only slightly to small, your toes will get bruised , particularly on your descend. It is it therefore also important to keep your toe nails short for the climb. Developing blister should be treated immediately as soon as the "hot spot" is felt. Remove the boot and cover the area with a zinc oxide tape or something similar.

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Tanzania Luxury Safari HolidayMain Attractions
A Tanzania wildlife safari is the wildlife enthusiasts ultimate destination. A number of parks throughout Tanzania offer a host of wildlife highlights. The Big Five of Serengeti National Park is a must, the stunning Ngorongoro Crater is breathtaking, the wilds of Lake Manyara take you back in time and the forested peaks of Mahale Mountains National Park and Serengeti, Gombe Reserve offer the perfect backdrop to track chimpanzees along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Ruaha, Selous...

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Tanzania Luxury Beach HolidayTanzania and Zanzibar Honeymoon Trip
Safari in Tanzania then relax in Zanzibar. This twin centre safari and beach honeymoon is for those honeymooners that want something more unique..
We offer a wide range of different types of honeymoons to Africa and the Indian Oceans. To read more about our honeymoon destinations click Safari & Beach Honeymoon Holidays

Tanzania offers some of the best wildlife safaris in Africa. Whether visiting the Big Five of Serengeti National Park, the jaw dropping Ngorongoro Crater, the wilderness of the Selous Game Reserve or the amiable chimpanzees of Mahale and Gombe you will not be disappointed. Tanzania offers the best parks to see big cats and the big five and can be combined with some pristine beaches off the coastline where you can relax at the end of your safari...

Accommodation
A range of safari accommodation is available in Tanzania. Western style luxury lodges and luxury tented camps are available for the wildlife enthusiast. Some of the best lodges include Migration Camp, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Migration Camp, Klein's Camp, Nomad's Greytoke, Nomad's Serengeti Safari Camp and Tarangire Treetops..

Safaris
Please find below a selection of sample itineraries with approximate costs for wildlife and migration safaris to Tanzania. Some of these itineraries may also be combined with gorilla safaris to both Rwanda and/or Uganda. These are by no means all of the itineraries that we offer however they will give you a taster of what is available...For further itineraries or enquiries please do not hesitate to fill in our contact form and we will get back to you with a detailed quote and itinerary at the earliest possible convenience.
Tanzania Safaris

A Tanzania Safari with Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing provides you with the ultimate Tanzanian holiday. Experience Tanzania's rich diversity of culture and wildlife. Whether you decide upon: a luxury lodge safari to Ngorongoro Crater, a camping adventure safari in Serengeti, Lake Manyara walking tour, Tarangire Selous, Mikumi, Ruaha, Arusha, climbing Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro, relaxing on superb Zanzibar Beaches, Wedding honeymoon holiday in Africa, Family Holiday vacation Tanzania or a hot air balloon Serengeti Safari, you will have an unforgettable experience. Safari Trips hotel bookings kenya Road Safari Africa tour budget safari beach family holiday packages kenya Ngorongoro Tanzania migration tours Uganda gorilla trekking organizations luxury holiday bookings to Africa holidays in east Africa Kenya walking safari masai mara safari Kenya Tanzania wildlife migration tour Africa adventure tour safari Serengeti Kenya walking safari holidays travel Africa safari budget Tanzania camping safari Tanzania Serengeti adventure trips Kenya Tanzania Zanzibar African wildlife safari Trips Samburu Kenya holiday budget safari family Kenya incentive travel Tanzania Africa wildlife safari tours Kenya/Tanzania combined safari Kenya safari package family Africa tour group Kenya over landing safari Tanzania Africa mount kenia budget group tours of east Africa

We Safaris specializes in:

* Private, Tailor-made Tanzania Safaris, designed to suit your budget
* Breathtaking Natural History including the Wildebeest Serengeti Migration
* Safaris to the Selous Game Reserve and off the beaten track safaris.
* Trekking, mountain climbs and wilderness budget camping adventure
* Tanzania Bird watching Safaris
* Tanzania Photographic Safari
* Tanzania Cultural Safaris

For more adventurous travel, leave the tourist trail and select a private Tanzania safari in the unspoilt Southern Circuit (including the vast wilderness of the Selous Game Reserve). Alternatively, Wild Things Tanzania Safaris provides the challenge of trekking safari in the Udzungwa Mountains, Ngorongoro Highlands or Kilombero Valley. Thrill seekers may prefer to climb Oldoinyo Lengai, Tanzania's only active volcano or take a sunrise balloon safari across the Serengeti.

Kenya Safaris in the best National Park / Game Reserve

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Safaris is one of Kenya's finest tours, safaris and travel companies, specializing in short excursions, extended safaris, specialist and tailor-made travel and safaris, car hire, hotel and safari lodge bookings and much much more...

We cover the whole of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda with our centrally based headquarters in Nairobi - Kenya.

African Safari Holiday

An African or Kenya safari is an amazing travel experience. The diverse wildlife and stunning scenery make Kenya and East Africa the perfect safari locations.

As local, African safari operators, we offer you the best holidays with quality,
value for money and personal service.

We also customize our safaris and offer options, such as adventure travel, luxury tours and beach holidays. See our Kenyan and East Africa safari list below, as well as our Tanzania safari and Zanzibar holidays.

African Safari Selection
See below full Kenya Safari list
Kenya wildlife safaris

Masai Mara Safari
A 3 day safari lodge to Masai Mara, one of the most famous national parks in the world, with an abundance of wildlife. Accommodation in luxury lodges which have facilites such as swimming pools. The  Kenya Safaris: can be combined with an African beach vacation if you will be interested to see the beautiful white sand beaches in Mombasa, Lamu, Malindi, Watamu or the Tanzania Island - Zanzibar

Africa Offers
Africa is an immensely rewarding place to travel to, thanks to unspoilt natural surroundings, such as the wildlife and vegetation, and the spectacular landscapes When on safari, you may see everything from snow capped mountains to forests and
white tropical beaches, all in a day's travel- it's that diverse. Finally the local cultures add to your holiday like no where else in the world.

Safari in Africa
Safaris began in Kenya and Tanzania and these are the best destinations for a safari. A Kenya safari offers amazing diversity and superb wildlife viewing. Rift Valley, is a good location too, known as for the scenery and rich wildlife in natural surroundings.

A safari in Africa is in some ways like an expedition - exciting and adventurous, but requiring careful thought and planning , which is what we, as locally based tour operators, are there for.. however you must plan for a leisurely pace of travel to truly enjoy your tour - so whether you have 3 days or 30, make sure you do not plan for too much in your travel.

Most of your safari will be in the " bush ", but this does not mean your travel will involve "roughing it" - you can have all the luxury you want ! Africa is home to many internationally reputed hotels and lodges luxury tented camps, with well appointed rooms, excellent cuisine and deluxe facilities such as bars and swimming pools. You can also fly between most places during your luxury safari.

Africa Safari Planner : See our safari planning guide, to help with the basics of designing your trip, be it Kenya travel ,a Tanzania safari , beach vacation in Mombasa or Zanzibar or an Uganda Gorilla Trek adventure holiday.

3 Days Masai Mara Lodge/ Camping Safari
Masai Mara, Kenya
This famous wildlife park is a top safari location, and one of the natural wonders
of the world, being the site of the annual wildebeest migration..

3 Days Amboseli Lodge/ Camping Safari or Tsavo Safari to Mombasa
Amboseli National Park, one of Kenya's oldest park, is located near the Kenya and
Tanzania border, "in the shadow" of Africa's highest mountain, the snow capped Kilimanjaro.

The park is known for its wildlife, especially it's prolific elephant population.  Amboseli also hosts the big cats, herbivores and numerous bird species including
flamingo and a variety of plains game.

Samburu Reserve, established in 1985, is an arid, hilly region with riverine forests, doum palms, acacia woodland and scrubland, offering a dramatic and rugged landscape in a rather remote location of Kenya - which is precisely the attraction of this reserve - fewer tourists in a wildlife rich, desert like setting amidst a colourful local tribe.

4 Days Kenya Bird watching - Wildlife Safari - Lake Nakuru - Maasai Mara
6 Day  Samburu - Sweetwaters - Aberdares - Lake Naivasha
7 Days Discover Kenya Safari - Amboseli - Lake Nakuru - Maasai Mara
8 Days Kenya Safari to Amboseli - Aberdares - Lake Nakuru - Maasai Mara
9 Days Kenya Safari with Beach Extension - Lake Nakuru-Maasai Mara-Mombasa
10 Days Kenya Classic Safari-Amboseli-Mt Kenya- Samburu - Lake Nakuru - Maasai Mara
11 Days Magical Kenya-Amboseli-Aberdares-Samburu-Mt Kenya-Lake Nakuru-Maasai Mara
12 / 14 / 16 /17 / 21 Days Best of Kenya & Tanzania Safari Expedition

African Safari offers you a chance to experience a natural world unchanged by the
passage of time. The Kenya Safari wilderness is home to an endless array of
ecosystems, the staging ground for natural cycles of life, death and regeneration
as old as the planet itself.

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endless potential for the wildlife African Safari Tour enthusiast.

On a Serengeti Safari, Tanzania Safari, Kenya Holiday, African Adventure, Kenya
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some of the best game viewing possible.
Our seasoned African safari professionals will help you plan the perfect Africa
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Call us today to help make your Africa Safari dream escape happen.

Guides
At Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking / Climbing Safaris we use local guides whenever possible. We believe that local guides have that extra bit of knowledge which can make a good safari into a great safari. Through using local guides / porters we also adhere to our responsible travel policy in contributing to the local economy through tourism.

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African Safari Holidays: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Lake Manyara, Lake Nakuru, Tsavo and more...
 
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