Camping on Kilimanjaro Mountain – Kilimanjaro Mountain, located in northern Tanzania, is the tallest mountain on the African continent. This mountain is a major tourist attraction in Tanzania and a popular destination for mountain climbers and adventurous travelers looking to reach its peak.
Different routes are available on the mountain for climbers and hikers to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit at Uhuru Peak. These routes have designated camping grounds where travelers stay each night on their way to the top. Apart from the Marangu route, which has permanent hut accommodations, most other routes use camping tents.
Camping on Kilimanjaro Mountain
The popular routes on Mount Kilimanjaro include:
- Marangu route
- Machame route
- Lemosho route
- Rongai route
- Northern Circuit route
Research each route to decide which one fits your travel schedule, preferences, and fitness level.
To camp on Mount Kilimanjaro, you must get a permit from the park authorities. Use the services of reliable tour operators to help you plan and organize your Kilimanjaro climbing trip. Pack all the necessary equipment for hiking and camping.
Be prepared for changing temperatures as you climb higher. You will camp at different elevations each night, so bring layered clothing that can be adjusted to suit the weather.
A climb support crew will accompany you. Porters will carry your camping tents, help set up camp, and pack it up each day. At the campsites, cooks will prepare your meals, and warm water will be available. Basic wooden toilets are provided at the campsites.
You can bring your own camping equipment or rent it when you arrive in Tanzania. Some tour operators also provide camping tents.
Campsites on Kilimanjaro Mountain
Campsites are located along the different routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Some of these include:
- Lava Tower Camp
- Buffalo Camp
- Shira 1 Camp
- Shira 2 Camp
- Second Cave Camp
- Third Cave Camp
- Umbwe Cave Camp
- School Huts Camp
- Mweka Camp
- Moir Hut Camp
- Mti Mkubwa Camp
- Mawenzi Tarn Camp
- Machame Hut Camp
- Mandara Huts Camp
- Barranco Camp
- Barafu Hut Camp
- Karanga Hut Camp
- Kibo Crater Camp
- Kibo Huts Camp
- Kikelelwa Camp
- Horombo Huts Camp
- Arrow Glacier Camp
- Millennium Camp
- Simba Camp
- Shira Cave Camp
What to Pack for Camping on Kilimanjaro
Here is a checklist of essential items for camping on Kilimanjaro Mountain:
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping mat
- Head torch or flashlight
- Beanie or warm hat
- Layered clothing
- Hydration bottles
- Energy bar snacks
- Comfortable hiking boots or trekking shoes
- Campsite sandals
- Personal portable first aid kit
- Gloves (light and heavy)
- Sunglasses, sun hats, and scarves
- Fleece jackets
- Day backpack
Camping on Kilimanjaro Mountain is an exciting and adventurous experience. Reaching the top at Uhuru Peak is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement. Follow the advice of your climbing support team to ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable journey on Kilimanjaro Mountain.
