Many people look for a mountain to climb in their lives. Sometimes the mountain is a metaphorical one. Other times it is quite literal. For those of the latter mindset, Mount Kilimanjaro welcomes the brave and vanquishes the unprepared on a routine basis. Known as one of the Seven Summits-or seven highest points on each of the world's seven continents-it is one of the easier peaks to climb, but taking it for granted can lead, and has led, to some pretty hefty disasters. Knowing the dangers ahead of time ensures you the best opportunity for successfully scaling this behemoth.

Dangers in altitude. Much of Kilimanjaro is a gradual incline, but as you push for the summit, be prepared for some pretty significant changes in altitude. When the air gets thinner, it can lead to health problems in even the fittest of individuals. Many accidents every year are as a result of this unexpectedly significant change. It can be the difference between little things like success and failure or big things such as life and death.

Climber inexperience. Biting off more than one can chew seems to be a yearly phenomenon in the region. While this doesn't necessarily result in death, it can lead to some painful mishaps as a climber gets closer to the top. Make sure that before you set out on your journey, you have researched both climbing practices and the terrain itself. Being prepared with the right amount of background knowledge will distinguish you from the beginners.

Rock slides. In January of 2006, three Americans were killed in a rock slide that also wounded many others on the expedition. It was one of the gravest tragedies in recent memory, and probably could have been avoided had the expedition paid more attention to weather conditions and other natural factors that led to the catastrophe. Climbing Kilimanjaro is about more than you and the rock. It's about awareness at all times.

Extreme cold. In the lower zones of Kilimanjaro, it is very easy for people and animals to survive. Vegetation is lush, and the weather is warm. The opposite becomes true as you get closer and closer to the top. Thinning air brings with it intense cold that can lead to hypothermia and frostbite. Without adequate gear and protection, you could become another casualty of the mountain.

Pre-existing health conditions. Even experienced climbers can fall victim to the potent cocktail of health problems, terrain, and mountain conditions. Experienced climber and store owner Barry Clements found this out firsthand when he died of a heart attack at the age of 57 while trying to make his summit push. Think twice about what you are doing if you have medical considerations.