On Kilimanjaro you walk from warm rainforest to freezing summit in a few days. The key is layering: several thin layers you add and remove through the day. Porters carry your main bag, up to 15 kg, and you carry a small daypack.
Clothing
- Base layers: two or three moisture-wicking tops and one or two pairs of thermal leggings. Avoid cotton.
- Mid layers: a fleece and a light insulated jacket.
- Outer layers: a waterproof, windproof jacket and waterproof trousers.
- Summit jacket: a warm down or synthetic jacket for summit night.
- Trekking trousers: two pairs, one possibly zip-off.
- Hands and head: thin liner gloves, warm insulated gloves or mittens, a warm hat, a sun hat and a buff or neck gaiter.
- Socks: four to five pairs of wool or synthetic trekking socks.
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support, broken in before the climb.
- Camp shoes such as trainers or sandals.
- Gaiters for mud and scree.
Gear
- Sleeping bag rated to about -10°C or colder
- Daypack of 25–35 litres with a rain cover
- Main duffel bag, waterproof or lined with a dry bag
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Water bottles or a hydration bladder for three litres. Keep one bottle in an insulated cover on summit night so it does not freeze.
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Health and personal items
- High-factor sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Personal medicines, plus any altitude medicine your doctor prescribes
- Blister plasters, painkillers and rehydration salts
- Hand sanitiser, wet wipes and toilet paper
- Snacks you enjoy: energy bars, nuts, sweets
- Power bank, kept warm in your sleeping bag at night
What we provide
Tents, mattresses, a dining tent, a private toilet, all meals and treated drinking water are included on our climbs. You do not need to bring a stove or food.
Hire in Moshi
Sleeping bags, down jackets, poles and gaiters can be hired in Moshi. It saves money and luggage space if you will not use the items again.
Leave at home
Single-use plastic bags are banned in Tanzania, so pack in fabric or dry bags. Leave jewellery and anything you cannot replace in the hotel. See how to train for Kilimanjaro and our safari packing list if you add a safari.
Frequently asked questions
Up to 15 kg per climber in your main bag. Carry only a daypack yourself.
One rated to about -10°C or colder. Nights at high camp are below freezing.
Yes. Sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles and gaiters can be hired in Moshi.
