1. What Causes Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?
As altitude increases, atmospheric pressure drops, meaning each breath yields fewer oxygen molecules. Above 3,000 meters (9,800ft), the body must undergo physiological adaptations to compensate.
2. The Golden Rules of Mountain Acclimatization
To reach Uhuru Peak safely, follow these three non-negotiable principles:
1. **Pole Pole (Slowly Slowly):** Walking at a relaxed pace prevents excessive exertion and elevated heart rates early in the climb.
2. **Climb High, Sleep Low:** Routes like Lemosho and Machame take you to high daytime elevations (e.g., Lava Tower at 4,630m) before descending to sleep lower (Barranco Camp at 3,960m).
3. **Hydrate Aggressively:** Drink 4 to 5 liters of fluid daily to assist metabolic processes.