The team on the Kilimanjaro have a saying “Pole Pole (po-lay, po-lay), which translates as slowly. Hiking the Kilimanjaro requires that you keep your heart rate low such that you can easily acclimate and reach the summit.
When your heart rate is low, your oxygen intake is also low and you will need this attribute since the oxygen levels drop and you go further onto the peak.
Most hikers are just especially those that come from the western world sometimes have a hard time adjusting to the Pole Pole like as they are used to always having things done which in their way of life.
However the hike to the Kilimanjaro requires a different approach. Especially when you learn that it’s the tallest mountain In Africa.
What is Slow Travel?
This slow travel technique is basically a way of exploring on safari while taking time to connect, explore, discover and learn.
You will have to engage nature, the people and culture if you intend to enjoy your stay anywhere.
With this technique you will be able to take a lot of good pictures that will serve as a remembrance for your safari.
In the case of the Kilimanjaro, you will have a chance to acclimatize and reduce the risk and effects of the altitude sickness if you hike pole pole.
When you use other remedies that help with acclimatization, they will also have a chance to work since you will not be over working the body.
‘Diamox’
The Diamox drug is medication used to treat several illnesses like Periodic paralysis, Epilepsy, Glaucoma and Altitude sickness. The most common brand name in this drug is Acetazolamide.
This drug is usually used at the point of acclimatization while hiking the Kilimanjaro. Only use this drug if prescribed by a medical person.
This is because the doctor has to make sure you don’t have any other underlying conditions. Like any other drug. Over time, the hikers that have used this drug. The acclimatization routines have minimized the effects of altitude sickness.
The Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and it stands at about 5,895 meters above sea level. Therefore the chances that you will get altitude sickness are very high.
There are several routines that are used to control the effects of altitude sickness. One of them being taking things slow. Then the other being hiking high and sleeping low. But Diamox is one of the most effective remedies.
Disclaimer: You will need to first consult your doctor before taking this drug.
Climb Kilimanjaro Mountain in Tanzania with these recommended Kilimanjaro climbing companies or inquire with us directly below.
