• Essential Items:

  • Duffel bag – large enough for all climbing gear and clothing. To be carried by the porters. An extra bag to be left at the hotel with extra gear.
  • Small luggage lock – to lock zippers.
  • Day backpack –20 – 35 L capacity. Large enough to carry your water, camera, raincoat, lunch pack, snacks & warm clothing.
  • Sleeping bag.
  • Ski-pole / walking stick.
  • Water bottle/containers.
  • Water Bladder (Camelbak type, 3 litres).
  • Kilimanjaro map (Can be bought at Park gate).
  • Tip: A duffel bag is preferred as porters bundle it with other items and carry the load on their heads.

• High Altitude Gear:

  • Waterproof, breathable & windproof jacket (outerwear like Ventex or Gore-Tex).
  • Waterproof, breathable & windproof pants (outerwear).
  • Polar fleece (middle layer).
  • Thermal underwear (under layers).
  • Mittens or warm gloves.
  • Glove liners (if necessary).
  • One pair of thermal socks.
  • Balaclava.
  • Gaiters.
  • Thermal water flask.

• Hiking Gear:

  • Shorts.
  • Hiking pants.
  • Regular underwear.
  • T-shirts.
  • Raincoat or Poncho.
  • Tip: For the base layer, clothing with moisture-wicking fabric (merino wool or Capilene) are recommended; staying dry is essential. Avoid cotton as they absorbs moisture, important to avoid hyperthermia (see all Kilimanjaro health issues).

• Footwear:

  • Water-resistant semi-stiff hiking boots – mid-weight boots work great.
  • Shoes for overnight camps – i.e. sneakers, running shoes, etc.
  • Socks – several pairs for the climb.
  • Liner socks – to keep your feet dry and limit the risk of blisters.

• Equipment:

  • Sun hat or similar (with a brim).
  • Knit hat (for warmth).
  • Collapsible ski sticks (optional but highly recommended).
  • Water bottles – two or three (total capacity at least 4 litres).
  • The headlamp is a good, strong one with spare batteries and an extra light bulb.
  • Water purification tablets.
  • Sunglasses, good quality dark lenses for the climb, with a securing strap.
  • Flashlight (torch) with spare batteries.
  • Backpack cover (optional).
  • Camp pillow.

• Personal Items:

  • Toilet kit (soap, toothbrush, toilet articles, wet wipes, etc.).
  • Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional).
  • Sunscreen and lip protection, SPF 30+.
  • Ziploc bags protect cameras, binoculars, etc., from dust.
  • Toilet paper.
  • Wet wipes (recommended).
  • Pee Bottle to avoid leaving the tent at night (recommended).
  • Money belt for passport and valuables.

• Medical and First Aid Supplies:

  • Headache tablets.
  • Altitude Sickness-Diamox (if not allergic to sulpha).
  • Diarrhea – Imodium.
  • Nausea – Valoid.
  • Malaria – Prophylaxis.
  • Water purification tablets.
  • Painkillers.
  • Muscular sprains.
  • Abrasions, blisters and cuts – Plaster, bandages.
  • Antiseptic cream – Betadine.
  • Flu and colds.
  • Eye drops.
  • Insect repellent containing DEET.

• Optional Items:

  • Camera, extra lenses, memory cards, and spare batteries.
  • Binoculars.
  • Powdered sports drinks for the climb (e.g. Game or Isotonic drinks).
  • Pocket knife.
  • Notebook & pencil.
  • Plastic bags to keep clothing dry (masking tape).
  • Energy snacks and sweets.
  • Video camera, tapes/memory cards, battery packs.

Airport / Hotel