We know that for our clients, detail is important, so we set out time and valuable research to produce a complete and reliable Kilimanjaro packing list. This post is the culmination of that pursuit.

It is important to note, that our Kilimanjaro Packing list continues to evolve as new and better gear comes onto the market, and we encourage you to contact us after your trek to add any suggestions that you think will benefit future trekkers.

In browsing this Kilimanjaro packing list we recommend using the quick links on each page to jump to key sections, and bookmarking this page so that you can return to it as your preparations unfold.

Please also share our list with fellow trekking partners, or link to it from your blog or social networks as a resource for future trekkers.

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TYPES OF TREKKERS – Which one are you? 

Typically you get two types of trekkers on Kilimanjaro. Those who are unprepared and under-equipped, or those who have spent an arm and leg on equipment that they will unlikely use during their hike on Kilimanjaro.

In this Kilimanjaro packing list, we hope to provide a happy medium between the two that covers all mandatory equipment that we recommend you should purchase in preparation for your adventure.

If you happen to forget a few things you can usually hire from your tour company or buy equipment from the various hawkers who loiter outside the route gates trying to sell you everything under the sun. Remember if you decide to buy from these guys they will always try to overcharge. Bartering is just the way it is done in Tanzania.

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KILIMANJARO KIT LIST

Kilimanjaro Clothing – Overview on all Kilimanjaro clothing requirements, including layered clothing recommendations and the all important outer layer (i.e. jacket)

Kilimanjaro Footwear – From hiking boots to socks and gaiters. Your feet are what get you up Mount Kilimanjaro. Don’t fall victim to purchasing bad boots or socks that will give you blisters!

Headgear – Here we cover useful gear to keep your head out of the sun during the hot and high solar radiation days that you will experience on Kilimanjaro, as well as keep your head warm and cozy on summit night. In this section we also cover information and recommendations on Kilimanjaro headlamps – you will need a headlamp as you summit overnight

Hands and walking – Gloves and walking/trekking pole requirements. Both are critical. The former is very important as your hands are the first to start freezing on summit night. The latter can reduce the impact on your knees by up to 20%, which is a major win when you are descending from the slopes of Kibo

Bags – From the Kilimanjaro kit bag to your day pack. Getting the right type of duffel bag is really important as it will carry all your gear and needs to be of a type that is comfortable for a porter to schlep up Kilimanjaro.

Your day-pack will be carried by you so it is key that you get something that is light and versatile – in this section, we have provided useful recommendations

Sleeping – Kilimanjaro sleeping bag recommendations and other useful sleeping accessories, like an inflatable pillow.

The sleeping bag you choose is important as the nights on Kilimanjaro can get below freezing. Here are detailed recommendations

Other accessories – Kilimanjaro accessories including water bottles and medications.

We often receive emails from clients asking for a Kilimanjaro Packing list or checklist.

Guidebooks like; Mount Kilimanjaro: Trekkers Guide to the Summit, provides a complete Kilimanjaro packing list which makes it super easy to methodically tick off each piece of kit when shopping or packing your kit bag. If you would like to download the guide and kit list, go here.

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KILIMANJARO KIT LIST FOR WESTERN BREACH ROUTE

The Western Breach Route is the most technically challenging approach to Kilimanjaro. It was closed for a short period in early 2006 after a fatal rockfall claimed the lives of three trekkers. It has however re-opened with a new and safer route configuration and is steadily growing in popularity.

For trekkers interested in the Western Breach we recommend reading my route description here.

There are some specific Kilimanjaro kit requirements for the Western Breach that you should be aware of. Many of these items are not mandatory, however, should the conditions on the Western Breach be adverse you may need the following:

• (1) Climbing helmet to protect your head from the potential risk of falling rocks
• (2) An ice-axe and point crampons – it is unlikely that you will need these       items, however, if you are climbing during the wet season it is likely you will encounter sub-surface ice from refrozen meltwater and deep snow. Usually, your guides will have the correct gear to cut steps on these sections.

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