Mount Kilimanjaro is among the Seven Summits of the world and attracts over 30,000 tourists annually. Climbing this mountain is relatively easier compared to others of similar height, but it should not be underestimated as many people fail to reach the summit due to altitude sickness. Here’s a packing list for a successful Kilimanjaro trek:
- Daypack: You will need a daypack of 30 to 40 liters, which you will carry daily during your climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s important to train with your daypack, including some weight, before hiking Kilimanjaro.
- Waterproof Duffel Bag: The mountain’s weather can change unexpectedly, so carrying a waterproof duffel bag is necessary to protect your belongings from getting wet.
- Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag is essential while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, as you will be staying on the mountain for several nights in tents with cold weather.
- Trekking Poles: Though not compulsory, trekking poles can reduce the impact on your joints by about 20% and are especially useful while descending the mountain.
- Water Bottles: Disposable water bottles are not allowed for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, but you can bring along reusable water bottles to stay hydrated, especially during the cold nights.
- Headlamp: A headlamp is crucial for Mount Kilimanjaro hiking, especially on the summit night when the hike starts as early as midnight, as there is no power on the mountain.
- Sunglasses: Sun intensity increases from 4,500 meters above sea level, so it’s advised to carry good sunglasses.
- Warm Waterproof Gloves: Warm waterproof gloves are highly recommended for cold nights and the summit night.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots, Training Shoes, or Sandals: Waterproof hiking boots and training shoes are mandatory for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s important to use both pairs while training for the summit climb to ensure they are comfortable. Waterproof boots are ideal in case of rain, and it’s advisable to get a pair with good ankle support. Training shoes or sandals can be worn after a day’s hike while relaxing in the camp in the evenings.
- Long Socks and Gaiters: Bring around four pairs of long socks and one thick pair of thermal socks for the summit night. Gaiters can also help keep your trousers clean in case of muddy trails, rain, or dust.
- Long-Sleeved Clothing: Lightweight and warm long-sleeved clothing will help keep you warm throughout the climb and protect you from the sun and insects.
- Waterproof Jacket and Insulated Jacket: Waterproof jackets are essential in case of rain during the trek, while insulated jackets are recommended for the summit climb and cold nights.
- Spare Batteries and Power Bank: Carry extra batteries for your devices such as cameras and headlamps, and a power bank is also recommended for your phone.
- Sunscreen: To protect your skin from sunburn as the sun gets more intense at higher altitudes, carry a good-quality sunscreen.
- Energy-Giving Snacks: Energy-boosting snacks can help keep your body energized and replace lost energy and electrolytes during the hike.
- Plenty of Drinking Water: Continual hydration is important while hiking to replace lost fluids through sweating.
- Insect Repellent: Carry insect repellent to avoid insect bites while hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.
Other items on the packing list include a compression sack, sleeping mat, spare laces, first aid kit, oxygen bottle, hats, travel pillow, sleeping clothes, base layer, underwear, wide-brimmed sun hat, earplugs, umbrella, microfiber towel, books and games, Type G plug adapter, and various other essentials.
Porters can be hired to carry your duffel bag while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, but the maximum weight for porters is strictly 15 kilograms. Weights above 15 kilograms will require you to hire an additional porter.
Some companies provide a wide range of hiking gear at a reasonable price for hire.
