Climbing

Can You Climb Kilimanjaro with Asthma in 2025–2026?

November 25, 2025 • 2 min read

Short Answer: YES – if your asthma is well-controlled

We’ve had asthmatic climbers on almost every departure in 2025 – most summit without a single puff above 4,000 m.

Real Numbers (2024–2025 Season So Far)

  • 47 climbers declared asthma
  • 45 reached Uhuru Peak (96 % success)
  • 0 emergency oxygen uses for asthma alone
  • 2 turned around early (both had active chest infections – not asthma)

Why Asthma Is Usually NOT a Show-Stopper

  • Cold, dry air is the main trigger → we give you a buff and teach you to breathe through it
  • Slow “pole pole” pace keeps your heart rate low → less wheezing
  • Longer 8–9 day routes = gradual oxygen drop → your lungs adapt

Our Exact Asthma Protocol (No Surprises)

  1. You tell us privately on the medical form (100 % confidential)
  2. We brief your lead guide (no one else knows)
  3. You carry your own rescue inhaler in your daypack every single day
  4. We check your oxygen saturation twice daily (normal for asthmatics is still 90–98 %)
  5. We keep a spare inhaler in the medical kit just in case
  6. If you wheeze → we slow the group or add a rest day (no extra charge)

Must-Do Before You Book

  • Get written clearance from your doctor or asthma specialist
  • Do a test hike at 3,000–4,000 m if possible
  • Make sure your asthma is stable (no attacks in the last 3 months)
  • Bring at least 3 rescue inhalers + your daily preventer

Triggers to Avoid

  • Climbing with a cold/flu (biggest danger)
  • Speeding up on summit night (we won’t let you)
  • Forgetting to drink (dehydration thickens mucus)

Real Client Story (June 2025)

“I have moderate asthma and was terrified. Took 9-day Northern Circuit, used my inhaler twice on day 2, then never again. Summit morning I was breathing easier than some “healthy” people in the group!”

– Lisa, UK

Bottom Line

Well-controlled asthma + longer route + responsible operator = summit in your future.

Tell us “I have asthma” when you request a quote and we’ll send you our exact asthma checklist + doctor letter template.

Get Your Personal Asthma Plan | Download Asthma on Kili PDF | Chat with Our Medical Team

Your lungs can do this. We’ve seen it. 🫁🗻

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