Top tips for climbing Kilimanjaro

The season for climbing the world's highest free-standing mountain - Kilimanjaro - is approaching and the Adventure Company offers its top tips for successfully climbing Africa's highest peak.

Travellers should be sure to plan ahead and be aware that Kilimanjaro treks aren't available year-round. The best season for climbing is from June to October and there are a number of different routes up the mountain.

Perhaps consider taking a lesser-known route such as Machame or Rongai to avoid the crowds in July and August.

While on the trek it is important to be prepared for changing weather conditions. Although Kilimanjaro treks start in a warm climate, conditions at the top of the mountain are very different.

Climbers should take a full set of waterproof clothing, a hat to sleep in and Heat Mate hand warmers for the final ascent.

The sun's rays are stronger at altitude due to the thin air so protect yourself with a hat (that also covers your neck) and plenty of sun-screen.

Local guides have enormous knowledge of the mountain, the local culture and the flora and fauna of the region so make an effort to talk to and learn from them.

Make sure to take some good headache pills as headaches are a common effect of altitude. But remember that headaches can be a symptom of altitude sickness so tell your guide if they persist.

Plan your day pack carefully, including anything you might need for the daily hikes. Make sure you pack plenty of water and cereal bars or fresh fruit snacks as porters won't carry perishable food.

A change of socks, some foot lotion and blister plasters are also a good idea to refresh aching feet during breaks.

When you get to the final ascent it is advisable to keep moving. Slow and steady is the pace that will get you to the top. Remember "pole, pole" (pronounced "poley, poley"), which means "slowly, slowly" in Swahili.

Extendable walking poles can help with steep portions of the climb and descent.

Make sure you have spare batteries and memory cards for your camera. Reaching the highest point in Africa only to be let down by technology can put a dampener on the occasion. Climbers can only stay at the summit for twenty minutes so be ready to start snapping.

Remember to tip the porters, who work incredibly hard - carrying the equivalent of their body weight on their heads and preparing camps and meals each day.

Porters and their families rely on this income so generous tipping is recommended. They can't climb the mountain more than two or three times each month due to the altitude and the rota of guides and porters in the area.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is often a team effort and moral support amongst the group is key, so choose your tent-mate carefully. If you know you're a light sleeper, try to avoid sharing a tent with a heavy snorer, since sleep deprivation won't help your mood or energy levels. If in doubt, bring earplugs.

Talk to experienced trekking operators such as the Adventure Company, who are happy to share their personal experiences, or use the LiveChat feature on their website.