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Emergency stretcher on the mountain, safety on Kilimanjaro

Safety on Kilimanjaro

Safety on Kilimanjaro is key and it is very important to familiarize yourself with the risks involved. Altitude sickness is the biggest risk, when hiking Kilimanjaro and should not be under estimated. Altitude sickness affects more than 70% of hikers hiking up the mountain. It is impossible to predict in advance who will experience it and the severity of its impact.

We select only experienced, English-speaking guides who are trained and certified by Kilimanjaro National Park to lead our hikes. The guides receive first aid and high altitude training on a regular basis. This ensure that they are up to date with latest safety procedures. Even though the main aim is to reach the summit, safety is even more important. You will never see the guides pushing you beyond your limits. If a guide notice you are putting yourself and others at risk, they will advise you to abort the hike. Reaching the summit is important, but getting back down safely is just as important!

Kilimanjaro safety – what is part on every hike:

Safety on Kilimanjaro, photo of hikers heading up the Barranco wall
  • We only use expert and qualified guides on our hikes.
  • We send one emergency oxygen set on every hike. Please note not to be used as a summiting aid. The guides are trained on how to operate and use the oxygen.
  • We send a pulse Oximeter on every hike. Guides use it to monitor a hiker’s health levels, at least twice per day on the hike. Record is kept of all readings to help diagnose if a hiker is suffering from AMS.
  • Emergency first aid kits for minor injuries and accidents. Hikers still need to bring their own medication, blister plasters, etc.
  • The guides carry mobile phones and to contact the operational office in case of emergency.
  • Kilimanjaro rescue team fees

Safety on Kilimanjaro – evacuation methods:

All our packages include the Kilimanjaro Rescue team fees, however cost such as medical bills are not covered. For this reason, it is crucial to get comprehensive travel insurance.

The following are the main evacuation methods available on your hike:

1.      You will walk down with a guide if it is safe and you are able to do so.
2.     If you are unable to walk and it is safe to do so, our team will transport you by stretcher to the nearest rescue vehicle point.

Please take note that:

  • Stretchers are provided by the park. They are only available from some ranger posts and subject to availability.
  • The park provides rescue vehicles, but their availability is not guaranteed.
  • Rescue team fees are included in all hike packages. It covers the costs of stretchers and rescue vehicles. You don’t need insurance for these services, but you will need it once you are at the hospital.
  • Helicopter evacuation is no longer available on the mountain. Our experienced guides are trained handle a variety of high-altitude emergencies. We do not rely on helicopter services, as they may not be available at any time.
  • The best way to recover from altitude sickness is to descend to a lower altitude. The higher oxygen levels at lower altitude will help hikers recover much faster. Our main goal, if it is safe for you, is to have you descend on your own.