About Sara Macdiarmid Expertise For all forms of travel within Tanzania and the islands of Zanzibar. Especially for visiting the National Parks, viewing wildlife, climbing and hiking, diving, visiting local tribes and learning about their culture.
Experience 8 years as a tour leader and guide for adventure travel tours.
Education/Credentials BA(HONS) degree in 'Film, Video and Photographic Arts.
Expert: Sara Macdiarmid Date: 7/17/2001 Subject: Mt. Kilimanjaro
Question I'll be climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro July 29 through August 2nd. What kind of weather cant I expect? Will it be extremely cold at the top? Also, any suggestions for altitude sickness? I'll be taking Diamox.
Answer Hi Lori,
The weather in Tanzania will be good, the rainy season should be over. However, the mountain makes it's own weather - as mountains do.
You may get rain on the lower sections, through the 'cloud forest'.
You must take water-proof jacket and trousers, or hire them from your guide. Take plastic bags to pack all your gear in - inside your rucksack and daysack.
It can be minus 25 degrees 'C' at the top, yes it will be very cold.
Take thermal underwear, scarf, hat (with ear flaps), gloves, wind-proof over jacket, good socks, fleece (I take two).
Diamox does work, you only need to take 250mg per day, that is usually one tablet. Take half a tablet in the morning and the other half in the evening. Start the tablets at least one day before you climb. Side effects will be a strong 'tingling' feeling in you hands and feet, nothing too strange. Your last dose of diamox will be the evening before you climb to the summit. You will not need it after that.
Remember, diamox is only an 'aid'. You must GO SLOWLY AND DRINK PLENTY OF WATER, or you will find yourself in trouble.
Listen to you guide, 'he/she' is very experienced.
Enjoy your climb, take care.
Sara Mac.
