Kilimanjaro Packing List

If you're planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, you'll need to make sure you have the right gear with you. Our Kilimanjaro packing list will help you make sure you have everything you need for a safe and comfortable journey.

​

Download your comprehensive packing list here!

​

Trekking Kilimanjaro involves five main climate zones, from the warm, humid forest and lower slopes, to the bitterly cold summit zone, with glaciers, ice, and snow. You need to be prepared for all Kilimanjaro weather conditions: sunny, windy, and rainy.

​

We provide tents, camp equipment, food, cooking facilities, and other shared items. You’ll have a duffel bag to carry your personal belongings, which should weigh no more than 15-20 kg/33-44 lbs. Packing for Kilimanjaro is different from packing for a regular hike or trek. In addition to the basics, you'll need to bring certain items that you wouldn't normally pack, like warm clothing and rain gear. Kilimanjaro is a challenging climb, so you'll also need to be prepared mentally and physically. Our Kilimanjaro packing list will help make sure you have everything you need for a successful climb.

​

Gear List:

 

If you are packing for your climb it is important to really plan your clothing appropriately. This is why we recommend that you pack the following:

 

Technical Clothing

1 – Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood

1 – Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down, with hood

2 – Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell

3 – Long Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking (hood recommended)

1 – Short Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking (optional)

1 – Waterproof Pants, breathable (side zipper recommended)

2 – Hiking Pants

1 – Fleece Pants, warm

1 – Shorts (optional)

1 – Long Underwear, moisture-wicking

4 – Underwear, moisture-wicking

3 – Sports Bra (women)

​

Headwear

1 – Brimmed Hat, for sun protection

1 – Knit Hat, for warmth

1 – Neck Gaiter, for dust, wind and warmth

 

Hand Wear

1 – Gloves, warm (waterproof recommended)

1 – Gloves, light

 

Footwear

1 – Hiking Boots or Shoes, warm, waterproof

4 – Socks, wool or synthetic

1 – Gaiters, waterproof (optional)

 

Accessories

1 – Sunglasses (Polarized*)

1 – Backpack Cover, waterproof (optional)

1 – Water Bottle (Nalgene, 32 oz.)

1 – Water Bladder (Camelback type, 3 liters)

1 – Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional)

1 – Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving the tent at night (recommended)

​

Stuff Sacks, Dry Bags, or “Ziploc”-Type Plastic Bags, to keep gear dry and separate. Note that there is a general ban on plastic bags in Tanzania, however, Ziploc-type bags for toiletries are permitted for tourists.

​

Equipment

1 – Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons*

1 – Camp Pillow, inflatable (optional)

1 – 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 personal gear

​

Other

Toiletries

Prescriptions

Sunscreen

Lip Balm

Insect Repellent, containing DEET

First Aid Kit

Hand Sanitizer

Toilet Paper

Wet Wipes (recommended)

Snacks, light-weight, high calorie, high energy (optional)

Electrolytes, powder, or tablets (optional)

Camera, with extra batteries (optional)

​

Paperwork

Trip Receipt

Passport

Visa (available at JRO)

Vaccination/Immunization Papers

Insurance Documents

 

Additional Information

As you prepare to climb Kilimanjaro, there are a few things to keep in mind in terms of what to pack. First and foremost, your main duffel bag should not exceed 15 kg (35 pounds). The porters will carry this for you, and overweight or extra luggage will require an additional porter. Wrap your clothing in rugged, waterproof stuff sacks to protect against the elements.

 

In your daypack, you should always keep items like water, sunglasses, a camera, binoculars, rain pants, and a jacket as a minimum. You likely won't have access to your main luggage during the day, so it's important to pack anything else you might need. Additionally, be sure to bring extra sets of batteries as cold weather can shorten their life. Remember to keep critical climbing gear with you on the plane just in case your luggage gets lost.

​

Footwear

Your Kilimanjaro packing list should include a good pair of hiking boots. Make sure your boots are well worn-in and fit properly and you are comfortable walking long hours in them. You don’t need heavy mountaineering boots, as you won’t be wearing crampons and you don’t need the extra weight. Sneakers or “trainers” are not appropriate, except for wearing around camp. Kilimanjaro is a difficult enough hike without having to worry about your feet. A good pair of hiking boots will make all the difference on the mountain. Make sure to break them in before you go and pack extra socks just in case.

 

Sleeping

When you're packing for your Kilimanjaro climb, make sure to bring a 4-season sleeping bag rated for 0F (-15C). This will ensure that you're comfortable and warm enough in the cold temperatures on the mountain. You can either bring your sleeping bag or rent one from us. Our rental sleeping bags are professionally cleaned after every climb . Whether you rent or bring your own, consider bringing a sleeping bag liner, to keep any mountain dust and dirt out of the bag, and add a bit of warmth.

 

• Sleeping Bag rated 0°F, -15°F

• Sleeping mat: we provide one, but you can bring your own if you prefer

• Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth or for rented sleeping bag)

• Compression sack for sleeping bag

​

Medical Supplies

When you're packing for your Kilimanjaro climb, be sure to include a few key items for minor scrapes and blisters. Our guides carry a comprehensive medical kit, but you'll want to have your personal supplies as well.

​

Here's a quick packing list of items we recommend:

​

• Antiseptic wipes or cream

• Bandages

• Blister pads

• Pain reliever/anti-inflammatory medication

• Imodium for diarrhea

• Prescription Medications

• Diamox for altitude

• Anti-nausea medication

​

And of course, always consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before you travel if you have any questions or concerns. With a little preparation, you'll be ready to tackle Kilimanjaro like a pro!

​

Download your comprehensive packing list here!