Is Oxygen Tank Necessary In Kilimanjaro
Question
Do I need Oxygen to Climb Kilimanjaro?
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Answer ( 1 )
It’s a question we’re asked all the time—which makes sense given Kilimanjaro’s epic proportions! On Everest climbs, bringing supplemental oxygen is a matter of course, and some companies tell trekkers they’ll provide it on Kili as an extra “boost” meant to reduce the more unpleasant symptoms of altitude.
Still, the short answer is “no.”
In fact, not only is supplemental oxygen unnecessary on Kilimanjaro, providing it can pose a grave health risk.
Pulmonary or Cerebral Edema (liquid in the lungs and brain, respectively) are potentially deadly side-effects of exposure to extreme altitude. Both are unlikely, and both are treatable…but not by oxygen alone.
Continual oxygen during a climb might help alleviate the headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath common at altitude. However, when these symptoms become severe, it’s the body’s warning sign of more serious problems; masking them puts a climber at risk.