MOUNT KILIMANJARO PACKING LIST
When planning your Kilimanjaro hike, it’s essential to remember everything on the Mount Kilimanjaro packing list. If you need to rent Kilimanjaro climbing gear, Tanzania Giants Tours offers competitive rates for gear rental.
During a typical day on Kilimanjaro, temperatures can range from the high 20s (Celsius) during the day to as low as -15°C at night. To manage this wide temperature range, your clothing and gear should be based on layering. Thin layers that can be added or removed as needed are the most effective strategy. Kilimanjaro National Park enforces a strict 15kg weight limit per porter for your main equipment bag, which includes your sleeping bag. This limit is more than sufficient for your needs on the mountain. Your bag will be weighed before you leave the hotel, and if it exceeds the limit, you’ll need to remove items and leave them at the hotel.
WHAT TO WEAR AND CARRY
How do you dress to hike through Kilimanjaro’s five climate zones? From the humid, equatorial heat of the rainforest (70-90°F) to the icy drifts at the summit (as low as -10°F), Kilimanjaro requires frequent wardrobe changes.
You won’t only change outfits between climate zones—Kilimanjaro creates its own weather, and conditions can shift within hours. You’ll shed layers under the midday sun and bundle up as temperatures plummet after sunset. In between, you may encounter anything from biting winds to rain, mist, or mild weather.
Preparing for all conditions requires careful planning. Keep in mind the 33-pound luggage weight limit for the hike. If you don’t have everything you need, don’t worry—Tanzania Giants Tours offers gear rental to meet your needs.
- Warm winter hat
- Neck gaiter or scarf – We recommend bringing a neck gaiter or bandana, as it can get dusty on Kilimanjaro.
- Sun hat – Choose a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
- Sunglasses – Opt for sunglasses with high UV protection, as sun intensity is very strong above 4,500 meters.
- Headlamp – You’ll need a headlamp with good light output for nighttime bathroom trips and summit night. Be sure to bring extra AAA batteries.
- Lightweight gloves – Perfect for keeping your hands warm on the lower slopes.
- Warm gloves or mittens – Essential for chilly nights and the summit; opt for heavyweight gloves for the best protection.
- Trekking boots – Choose mid-weight trekking boots that offer excellent ankle support and are preferably waterproof to handle the terrain.
- Gym shoes/sandals – Comfortable footwear to wear around camp after a long day of trekking.
- Socks – Bring 3-4 pairs of outer socks and 2-3 pairs of liner socks for added comfort. Don’t forget a thick pair of thermal socks for summit night!
- Gaiters – Ideal for keeping your trousers clean and dry in wet, muddy, or dusty conditions.
- Micro-spikes/crampons – While not always necessary, these can be invaluable during icy conditions near the summit.
- Thermal base layer – One merino wool thermal layer to keep you warm.
- Short-sleeved shirts – Two lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts for comfort.
- Long-sleeved shirts – Two or three moisture-wicking, long-sleeved shirts for added warmth.
- Fleece or soft shell jacket – A mid-weight fleece to keep you cozy on Kilimanjaro.
- Insulated jacket – A warm down or Primaloft jacket for cold nights and the summit.
- Hard shell outer jacket – A windproof outer layer to shield you from the elements.
- Poncho – Essential for Kilimanjaro’s unpredictable weather.
- Leggings – Two thermal or fleece layers for extra warmth.
- Trekking trousers – One pair of comfortable, medium-weight trekking pants.
- Hard shell trousers – Windproof trousers to protect you from harsh weather.
- Sun and Lip Protection: Bring sunscreen with a high SPF and lip balm to guard against sun exposure.
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste: Essential for your hygiene kit.
- Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitizer: Handy for maintaining cleanliness throughout the journey.
- Personal Medications & Medical Kit: Include essentials like Paracetamol and Imodium.
- Extra Bag: For storing any additional luggage you’ll leave behind at the hotel.
- Packing Cubes: Great for organizing items inside your duffle bag.
- Camera & Spare Batteries: Capture the beauty of Kilimanjaro—don’t forget extra batteries!
- Plug Adapter: We recommend a Type G plug adapter for charging devices at the hotel.
- Personal Snacks: Bring energy-boosting snacks like boiled sweets, nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit.
- Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying options are best.
- Portable Power Bank: Bring one, or even two, to keep your devices charged.
By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful and comfortable Kilimanjaro adventure!
MT. KILIMANJARO HIKING TOURS
A trek in this mountain is a life-time awe experience, a world-class achievement, and we will be happy to be part of it while you take it on. The focus is to get you to enjoy every moment of the trek as you find your way to the top.
Happy Travelers Share Their Experiences
Our travelers can't stop talking about the exceptional adventures we provide. From breathtaking destinations to seamless logistics, we go above and beyond to exceed expectations. Don’t just take our word for it—read our reviews and discover why clients trust us to craft their unforgettable journeys to the top of Kilimanjaro and beyond! Let us turn your dream adventure into a reality.
We enjoy being very “hands-on” in our management style and will personally work for you in seeing that you receive the highest quality service. Whether you want to climb Mt Kilimanjaro, enjoy a wildlife safari, visit exotic tribes or relax in Zanzibar we are here for you.
KILIMANJARO HIKING ROUTES
IMPORTANT LINKS
- © 2025 Tanzania Giants Tours. All Rights Reserved.
