Camping Food, Climbing Kilimanjaro
Food and Rations > More in this Category > Preparation > First Layer Clothing > Outer Layer Clothing > Equipment > Fitness Programme > Acclimatisation > Mild to Severe Altitude Sickness > Edema > Medication
Camping food during the climb will be prepared by employees that accompany climbers on their journey up the mountain. Despite the adverse conditions at most campsites, staff will go out of their way to ensure that climbers are always provided with decent meals.
Breakfast typically consists of porridge, eggs, toast and fruit to give climbers the energy they need to begin the day and help with the symptoms of altitude sickness. Lunches are usually eaten en route to the next campsite, and therefore consist of sandwiches and fruit. Dinners are prepared using the freshest ingredients possible and include meat, Carbohydrates and vegetables.
Whilst supplies for the meals will be carried by Porters, it is up to climbers to pack their own snacks into their rucksacks. When energy levels are low, carbohydrate and glucose based snacks such as dried fruit, chocolate, seed bars and sucking sweets may very well prove to be nothing short of lifesavers. Mini packets of hot chocolate will also provide energy, warmth and comfort during icy evening around the campfire.
Even more essential to hikers' wellbeing than food is their consumption of liquids. Dehydration can occur easily due to the amount of fluid being lost through respiration, perspiration and increased urination as a result of altitude. Doing a urine check is one of the most effective means of checking for dehydration, as a sufficiently hydrated individual's urine will always be pale yellow in colour. Anything darker is a warning sign that the body's kidneys may be taking strain due to insufficient water levels.
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Typically, one should drink at least three litres of water a day, excluding that which is consumed during mealtimes. This figure will however vary according to body size, Fitness Levels and Altitude. Hikers should ensure that they always keep water supplies within reach and stop to drink at regular intervals. At higher altitudes, where water supplies are scarce and purification becomes necessary, it is vital that instructions on purification tablets are strictly adhered to.
On the summit day, water supplies should be plentiful and should be stored as close to the inside of rucksacks as possible so as to prevent freezing. Similarly, packing a large quantity of food to snack on is strongly advised, as hiking time typically exceeds 12 hours and energy supplies deplete quickly in the severe conditions on the mountain. Remaining hydrated at all times and supplying ones body with sufficient fuel will greatly increase chances of a successful summit.
The Kilimanjaro Experience
