“Pole, pole” you will hear our guides tell you, which is Swahili for “slowly, slowly”. Even if you feel you can go faster, the best way to acclimatize is to walk slowly and stay within your fitness zone so that you do not put your body under too much strain.

Hydration is vital in acclimatizing well, you should carry 2 litres of water with you each day with the aim of drinking all of this during your day’s trek. Drinking plenty of fluid at breakfast and evening meals is also important. You will understand why we suggest a “pee bottle” as a “must have” piece of kit to save you having to de-tent during the night and do a toilet visit when it’s cold and pitch black outside!

Be as physically fit as you can before you start to ensure you enjoy the adventure rather than it being a hard slog. Also, the fitter you are the less likely you are to put your body under pressure and stress.

Make sure you have the right Kilimanjaro gear and that you have tried and tested it before the trek to ensure that it works and functions and that you are as comfortable and confident as you can be. Don’t leave it till summit day to find out whether your head torch works or day one of the trek to try out your new walking boots.