Essential Gear and Equipment for Your Kilimanjaro Trek - From Base Camp to Summit
Climbing Kilimanjaro requires specialized gear for extreme temperature variations and challenging terrain. Our comprehensive packing guide ensures you're prepared for every climate zone from rainforest to arctic summit conditions.
Strict Limit: Porters carry your duffel bag (max 15kg) while you carry a daypack (5-7kg). Rent gear locally to save weight and support the local economy.
Break in new boots 2-3 months before trip. Waterproof membrane essential for muddy trails.
Gore-Tex or similar waterproof/breathable material. Essential for rain and summit winds.
Down or synthetic fill for summit night. Temperature can drop to -5°C with wind chill.
Merino wool or synthetic long-sleeve shirts and thermal underwear for temperature regulation.
Waterproof gloves and warm beanie for summit. Consider liner gloves for photography.
Merino wool hiking socks (3-4 pairs). Consider sock liners for blister prevention.
DSLR/mirrorless camera, extra batteries, memory cards. Cold weather affects battery life.
Portable charger essential. Tanzania uses Type G (UK-style) plugs. Solar charger recommended.
Essential for summit night and early mornings. Extra batteries included.
Waterproof case recommended. Download offline maps and emergency contacts.
Record your journey and have reading material for rest days and evenings.
High SPF (50+) for intense equatorial sun at high altitude. Don't forget zinc-based options.
Prescription medications plus altitude sickness prevention (consult doctor). Pain relievers, anti-diarrheal meds.
Biodegradable soap, shampoo, toothpaste. Quick-dry towel and personal hygiene items.
Blister treatment, bandages, antiseptic, tweezers, nail clippers, personal medications.
Essential for maintaining hygiene in remote mountain camps.
60-70L soft duffel for porters (15kg max), 25-35L daypack for personal items during trekking.
2 x 1L water bottles or 2-3L hydration bladder. Essential for staying hydrated at altitude.
Multi-purpose for sun protection, dust, and warmth. Essential for all climate zones.
Lightweight sandals or crocs for camp. Your feet need rest from heavy boots.
UV400 protection sunglasses. Consider prescription sunglasses if needed.
Collapsible poles with snow baskets. Essential for stability on steep terrain and summit day.
Save Weight & Money: Rent sleeping bags, trekking poles, jackets, and other technical gear in Tanzania. Quality equipment available at reasonable rates. Contact us for rental arrangements.
Use moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers for temperature regulation.
Break in boots thoroughly before the trip. Consider gaiters for muddy conditions and snow gaiters for summit.
Cold temperatures drain batteries quickly. Keep extras warm in sleeping bag and consider solar charging.
Drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Use water purification tablets or boil water at camps above 3,000m.
Pack for both hot rainforest conditions and freezing summit temperatures. Versatility is key.
Pack heavy items at bottom of duffel, light items on top. Use stuff sacks to organize gear by category.
Get our detailed Kilimanjaro packing checklist with specific quantities, technical specifications, and route-specific recommendations.
📧 Request Detailed ChecklistOur Kilimanjaro experts can provide personalized gear recommendations based on your specific route, fitness level, and climbing experience.
📞 Get Expert Gear Advice