What equipment do I need to bring?

The most common mistake that climbers make is that they over pack and bring far too many things.

Be selective in what you bring. Please note that our porters are limited to carrying 15 kgs of your personal belongings. Everything the porters will carry for you between campsites should be placed into a duffel bag (see list below), including your sleeping bag, if possible. All extra luggage (items you will not use on your climb), can be safely stored at your hotel.

Plastic, recyclable water bottles are not allowed on the mountain.  Water should be carried in Nalgene bottles, water bladders, or similar devices. You should be able to carry 3-4 litres of water with you at all times. Alcohol is not allowed on the mountain.

Checked luggage on airplanes can get lost or delayed on the way to Tanzania. You should prepare for this possibility by wearing or carrying on the items that are essential to your Kilimanjaro climb. While most clothing and equipment can be replaced in Tanzania prior to your climb, there are some things that you will not be able to replace.

Suggested Packing List

Clothing

1 – Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood
1 – Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down, warm
1 – Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
3 – Long Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
1 – Short Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
1 – Waterproof Trousers, breathable (side zipper recommended)
2 – Hiking Trousers
1 – Fleece Trousers
1 – Shorts (optional)
1 – Long Underwear, moisture-wicking fabric
4 – Underwear, moisture-wicking fabric recommended
3 – Sports Bra

Headwear

1 – Brimmed Hat, for sun protection
1 – Knit Hat, for warmth
1 – Balaclava or Buff (recommended)

Footwear

1 – Hiking Boots or Shoes, warm, waterproof
4 – Socks, wool or synthetic
1 – Gaiters, waterproof (optional)

Accessories

1 – Sunglasses or Goggles
1 – Backpack Cover, waterproof (optional)
1 – Water Bottle (Nalgene, 32 oz.)
1 – Water Bladder 3 litres e.g. Camelbak
1 – Towel , lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
1 – Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (recommended)
Dry Bags or “Ziploc”-type plastic bags, to keep your things dry and separate. Note that there is a general ban on plastic bags in Tanzania, however Ziploc-type bags for toiletries are permitted for visitors. Ziploc-type bags for toiletries are permitted for tourists.

Equipment

1 – Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons*
1 – Camp Pillow, inflatable (optional)
2 – Trekking Poles, collapsible (highly recommended)*
1 – Head Lamp, with extra batteries
1 – Duffel Bag, 70L-90L capacity, for porters to carry your equipment
1 – Daypack, 30-35L capacity, for you to carry your essential items
*may be rented on location, subject to availability
*may be rented on location

Other

Toiletries
Prescriptions
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
Insect Repellent, containing DEET
First Aid Kit
Face Mask (REQUIRED)
Hand Sanitizer (REQUIRED)
Toilet Paper
Wet Wipes (recommended)
Snacks, light-weight, high calorie, high energy (optional)
Electrolytes, powder or tablets (optional)
Camera, with extra batteries (optional)

Paperwork

Passport
Vaccination Papers
Insurance Documents