African Wilderness Expeditions is honored to have organized the First medical research expeditionled by Professor Dr. Renz, Medical Director of the University Clinic of Marburg and Giessen in Germany.
The goal of this expedition was to determine early indicators in the blood plasma for High altitude sickness. We organised all administration work and the successfull expedition with 26 participants, 4 doctors, 8 guides and 120 porters.
Altitude sickness occurs when the body struggles to adjust to the lower oxygen levels at high elevations. It typically arises from rapid ascent without proper acclimatization. Kilimanjaro climbers are particularly vulnerable due to the mountain’s height (5,895 m / 19,340 ft) and the quick rate of ascent.
AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness,and fatigue.
HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) – Severe; fluid buildup in the lungs, causing extreme breathlessness, coughing, and blue lips or nails.
HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) – Critical; brain swelling leads to confusion, poor coordination and irrational behavior
Symptoms start from 2,500 m (7,000 ft) and worsen with faster ascents, physical exertion, dehydration, and prolonged exposure.
AMS is uncomfortable but manageable; however HAPE and HACE are lifethreatening and require immediate descent.
Acclimatization is key—slow ascents reduce the risk. Fitness does not prevent altitude sickness; anyone can be affected.
Guides conduct daily health checks using medical tools to monitor climbers’ conditions and ensure safety.
By following expert guidance and maintaining a steady pace, our clients can reach Kilimanjaro’s summit safely while minimizing altitude sickness risks.
The best way to increase your chances of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro is through preacclimatization with hypoxia training. This method is already a standard practice for Himalayan expeditions, including Mount Everest. The training involves sleeping in a specially designed tent for four weeks, where oxygen levels are gradually reduced and some active training. Thisprocess stimulates th e production of erythropoietin (EPO) in the blood, enhancing the body’s ability to adapt to high altitudes.
We offer a hypoxia package to all our clients from Germany and Austria with our partner Hoehenvorbereitung Markus Göbel. www.hoehenvorbereitung.de
