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Kilimanjaro Packing

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KILIMANJARO PACKING

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a unique high-altitude adventure that takes you through several climate zones — from lush rainforest to alpine desert and icy summit conditions. Temperatures can vary greatly between day and night, making proper preparation and the right equipment essential.
 

This Kilimanjaro packing guide will help you prepare with confidence. Below you’ll find a clear overview of clothing, gear, essentials, medical items, luggage guidelines and rental options.
 

Clothing – layering is key

The secret to staying comfortable on Kilimanjaro is layering. This allows you to adjust easily to changing temperatures and weather conditions.

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Upper body

  • Thermal base layers (2–3 sets)

  • Synthetic T-shirts (3–5 recommended)

  • Fleece sweater or fleece jacket

  • Insulated down jacket (essential for summit night)

  • Waterproof rain jacket or poncho

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Lower body

  • Thermal underwear (2–3 sets)

  • Trekking trousers

  • Fleece trousers (for evenings and cold days)

  • Waterproof rain pants

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Head, hands & feet

  • Warm hat

  • Sun hat with brim

  • Balaclava or bandana

  • Warm gloves

  • Thermal hiking socks

  • Gaiters (recommended in wet or muddy conditions)

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Footwear

  • Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots

  • Sports sandals or light shoes for evenings at camp

Backpacks & bags

  • Daypack (20–30L) for daily hiking (water, camera, rain gear, snacks)

  • Duffel bag or backpack (40–60L) for main luggage carried by porters
     

Soft-sided bags are required. We don’t allow hard suitcases on our Kilimanjaro treks for safety and logistical reasons.

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Essential gear

  • Sleeping bag (rated approx. 0°C to –10°C)

  • Sleeping bag liner

  • Sleeping mattress / sleeping pad 

  • Trekking poles

  • Head torch / headlamp (plus extra batteries)

  • Sunglasses (UV protection)

  • Water bottles (Nalgene type) and/or hydration bladder (minimum 3 litres total)

  • Stuff sacks or dry bags to organize clothing

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Essentials & Personal Items

Hygiene & personal care

  • Anti-bacterial hand sanitizer

  • Biodegradable wet wipes

  • Solid deodorant

  • Face lotion / moisturizing cream (against sun and wind exposure)

  • Face wash bar

  • Face tissues

  • Hair brush or comb

  • Hair ties

  • Small quick-drying hand towel (for face washing)

  • Toilet paper (small roll)

  • Sanitary pads (for women)

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Sun & weather protection

  • Sun hat with brim

  • Sunscreen SPF 50+

  • Lip balm with SPF

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Electronics & valuables

  • Camera

  • Extra camera batteries (cold temperatures drain battery life faster)

  • Memory cards

  • Mobile phone and charger

  • Power bank (strongly recommended)

  • Universal travel adapter / multi-plug

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Snacks & energy

  • Personal snacks such as chocolate, dried nuts, candy, energy bars and sweets for quick energy boosts

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Organization & packing

  • Ziplock bags for trash, wet items or dirty laundry

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Rental equipment in Moshi

To help you travel lighter, many items can be rented locally at our Moshi office, subject to availability and prior notice. Rental options include items such as:

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  • Daypacks and duffel bags

  • Down jackets and fleece layers

  • Sleeping bags and liners

  • Trekking poles

  • Rain gear

  • Head torches

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Rental procedure
Upon confirmation of your Kilimanjaro climb, you will receive a detailed rental list from us. This list allows you to indicate which items you would like to rent.

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We strongly prefer that rental requests are submitted in advance, as this helps us reserve the correct sizes and quantities for you and ensures availability on arrival. Last-minute rentals are possible only if stock allows.

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Pre-climb briefing & gear check

On the day before your climb begins, we meet for a pre-climb briefing. Your guide will explain the route, daily routine and safety procedures.

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During this meeting, we carry out a personal gear check for each climber. Every item of clothing and equipment is reviewed to ensure it is suitable for Kilimanjaro’s conditions.

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If anything is missing or not adequate, it can still be rented on the spot at our Moshi office. A good and complete kit is essential for comfort, safety and a successful summit attempt — and we make sure you start fully prepared.

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Important note

  • This packing list is a guideline; your guide will always advise if anything is missing

  • Rental equipment is limited and should be requested in advance

  • Plastic bags are banned in Tanzania. Do not bring plastic carrier bags. One small zip-lock bag for toiletries is allowed for flights but must leave the country with you

  • Always check airline baggage rules and avoid prohibited items, especially when domestic flights are included

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Final tip
Good preparation makes a real difference on Kilimanjaro. If you have any questions about packing, rentals or gear suitability, contact us and we’re happy to advise based on your route and travel plans.

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