Frequently Asked Questions
What is the success rate of climbers on the Lemosho Route?
Lemosho has one of the higher success rates of all routes up the mountain due to the typical 8 days to ascend. Most 8 day climbs have a success rate of approximately 85%.
How do I know if I can physically climb Mt. Kilimanjaro?
Medcan’s preparation program includes 3 personal training sessions and 1 session with a nutritionist, to give guidance on the type of training and diet required to be successful on the climb. Further, Medcan has partnered with Performance Coaching Inc. to provide mental resilience coaching in advance of the climb. All of this combined will help prepare ourselves both mentally and physically to our best ability to limit the chances of an unsuccessful climb.
What if I cannot summit due to elevation, who takes me down and where do I stay until I have my flight back home?
When a team member cannot complete the climb they are escorted down by 2 or more guides from our tour provider – Summits Africa. Depending on the severity of the reaction to elevation, the participant may only have to go one camp lower and wait for the team to return. You would be very surprised how fast you recover from elevation sickness once you start to descend. If our Physician’s Assistant and head guides feel that you should descend to a lower elevation you would make your way off the mountain and spend the remainder of your time relaxing in the amazing hotel that we stay in before and after the climb.
How do I reserve my spot?
A credit card payment or cheque (made out to Medcan Clinic) for $2000 before April 1st secures your spot. Call (647) 404-1360 or email Kickstart@medcan.com to do so.
Are flights to and from Tanzania included in the price?
No – the flight is not included but we will share flight details so we can all travel together as a team.
Who will be climbing with this group?
A climb lead from our tour provider – Summits Africa – will be climbing with us. He has climbed Kilimanjaro 280 times.Your Medcan representative is Rob Turner, Kickstart Coordinator and Personal Trainer. A Physician’s Assistant from the Canadian Special Forces will also be a part of the team to support you with any medical queries while on the climb.
How safe is Tanzania?
We are typically always in a group setting and have a great team of guides and porters who take care of our every need. Of course, this is a developing nation so it is always good practice to be cautious and to be aware of our environment and belongings. It is advised to leave valuables at home.
Can I stay in Tanzania after the climb is over?
Yes, you are free to explore the beautiful country of Tanzania before and after the climb.
I know you did this last year, what was the feedback?
Everyone on the team last year was very impressed with this adventure. The accommodations, the service, and the food were all very well received. Of our team of 9, only 1 team member was unable to make it to the summit.
Which inoculations and medications will I require to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro?
Medcan advises that all participants see a travel doctor prior to the climb to ensure they are fully prepared with inoculations and medication in advance of departure. For participants that sign up for the climb by March 15 2017, they will receive a complimentary session with the Medcan Travel Clinic for an initial assessment ($200 value). While everyone should complete an assessment prior to the climb, typically the following inoculations and medications are prescribed before going to Tanzania:
Inoculations: Adacel, Twinrix, Typhoid, Dukoral, a flu shot; Yellow Fever is NOT necessary if ONLY visiting Tanzania (but if participants choose to go to another location after the formal trip has ended, they should consider getting a yellow fever vaccination if that area is at risk)
A standby course of antibiotics: Acetazolamide(high altitude meds for Kilimanjaro), malaria pills only if you are in a malaria area (not at altitude)
Is there a danger of being attacked by wildlife on the mountain?
No. While there is wildlife on the mountain, you will not see any of the big game you expect to see in Africa at this altitude.
What is the temperature like on the mountain?
Prepare to experience many fluctuations while climbing the mountain. In the rain forest at the base of the mountain it can be very warm (shorts and t-shirt type weather) and on summit day temperatures can dip to -10 to -15 degrees Celsius.
Is there a physician attending the trip? What are their qualifications?
Yes, a Physician’s Assistant – Paul Trudel – from the Canadian Armed Forces, will be attending the climb. Paul has been serving in the Canadian Armed Forces for over 26 years in the medical field; the past 6 as a Physician assistant. The majority of his career involves medical planning and support for combat troops with extensive experience in the treatment of casualties in remote environments. Paul is an avid outdoor adventurer and has over 20 years of climbing experience and summited peaks in New Zealand, Afghanistan, and many regions in North America. Along with his experience in trauma and Primary Care, he is qualified as a Mountain Operations Instructor, is Advanced Wilderness Life Support certified, and holds a Diploma in Mountain Medicine. He is an advisor and instructor on Altitude Medicine for climbing teams with in his current unit.
Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
Yes, they can be purchased online in advance OR at the airport upon your arrival (probably easiest) for ~$50USD.
How much gear am I expected to carry up the mountain?
Your main pack will be carried by our team of porters. Your secondary or daypack will only include rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, layers of clothing, water, etc. and will likely weigh around 20lbs.
What’s the minimum age you will allow on the trip?
14 years old is standard.
