By park regulations, each porter is allowed to carry no more than 20kg so we suggest that you carry approximately 5kg in your day pack, including 3 to 5 liters of water.
With this in mind, packing efficiently is important. You will be going through several climate zones during the trip so dressing in layers is important. Before the beginning of the climb, the guide will go through an equipment check with you to make sure that you are properly prepared.
Plastic bags are not allowed in the country. Be sure that there are none in your bags on arrival. Zip-lock style bags have been exempted from this restriction.
Essential Items
- Duffel bag
- Small luggage lock – to lock zippers
- Day backpack
- Sleeping bag
High Altitude Gear
- Waterproof, breathable & windproof jacket
- Waterproof, breathable & windproof pants (outerwear)
- Polar fleece (middle layer)
- Thermal underwear (under layers)
- Mittens or warm gloves
- Socks
- Balaclava
- Gaiters
- Thermal water flask
Hiking Gear
- Shorts
- Hiking pants
- Regular underwear
- T-shirts
- Raincoat or Poncho
- Water-resistant semi-stiff hiking boots
Equipment
- Hat with a wide brim
- Collapsible ski stick
- Water bottles
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Flashlight
Personal Items
- Toilet kit (soap, toothbrush, toilet articles, wet wipes, etc.)
- Towel
- Sunscreen and lip balm with a good SPF
- Toilet paper
- Money belt for passport and valuables
First Aid Kit
- Headache tablets
- Diamox (for altitude sickness if not allergic to sulpha)
- Water purification tablets
- Painkillers
- Muscular sprains
- Plaster, bandages for Abrasions blisters and cuts
- Antiseptic cream
- Flu and colds
Optional Items
Camera, Binoculars, Powdered sports drinks for the climb, Pocket knife, Notebook & pencil, Plastic bags to keep clothing dry, Energy snacks and sweets, Insect repellent
Climbing Kilimanjaro is the experience of a lifetime. Be prepared