MOUNT KILIMANJARO GEAR LIST

KILIMANJARO GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging and rewarding experience, and having the right gear is crucial for your safety, comfort, and success. Here’s a comprehensive list of gear recommendations for your Kilimanjaro trek:

Clothing (Layering is Key!)

1. Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking):

   • Lightweight thermal tops and bottoms (synthetic or merino wool).

   • 2-3 pairs of moisture-wicking underwear.

2. Mid Layers (Insulation):

   • Fleece jacket or softshell jacket.

   • Down or synthetic insulated jacket (for extreme cold at higher altitudes).

3. Outer Layers (Weather Protection):

   • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar).

   • Waterproof and windproof pants (for rain and snow).

4. Hiking Clothes:

   • 2-3 lightweight, quick-dry hiking shirts.

   • 1-2 pairs of convertible or lightweight hiking pants.

   • 1-2 pairs of hiking shorts (for lower altitudes).

5. Headwear:

   • Warm beanie or fleece hat.

   • Sun hat or cap with a brim (for sun protection).

   • Balaclava or neck gaiter (for summit night).

6. Gloves:

   • Lightweight gloves for lower altitudes.

   • Insulated, waterproof gloves for summit night.

7. Socks:

   • 4-5 pairs of moisture-wicking, cushioned hiking socks.

   • 1-2 pairs of thick, warm socks for summit night.

Footwear

1. Hiking Boots:

   • Sturdy, waterproof, and broken-in hiking boots with ankle support.

   • Ensure they are comfortable for long days of trekking.

2. Camp Shoes:

   • Lightweight sneakers or sandals for wearing around camp.

Backpack and Gear

1. Daypack:

   • 20-30 liter backpack for carrying daily essentials (water, snacks, layers, camera).

2. Duffel Bag:

   • 70-90 liter duffel bag (porters will carry this, so ensure it’s durable and waterproof).

3. Rain Cover:

   • Waterproof cover for your daypack.

4. Sleeping Bag:

   • Rated to at least -10°C (14°F) or lower for summit night.

   • Consider a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth.

5. Trekking Poles:

   • Adjustable and collapsible poles for stability and reducing knee strain.

Hydration and Nutrition

1. Water Bottles/Bladder:

   • 2-3 liter capacity (e.g., Nalgene bottles or hydration bladder).

   • Insulated bottle covers to prevent freezing at higher altitudes.

2. Water Purification:

   • Water purification tablets or a portable filter (optional, as most operators provide boiled water).

3. Snacks:

   • High-energy snacks like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit.

Accessories

1. Headlamp:

   • With extra batteries (essential for summit night and early mornings).

2. Sunglasses:

   • UV-protected sunglasses with side shields (for snow glare at higher altitudes).

3. Sunscreen and Lip Balm:

   • High SPF sunscreen and SPF lip balm to protect against strong UV rays.

4. First Aid Kit:

   • Include blister treatment, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

5. Toiletries:

   • Biodegradable wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, and toothpaste.

6. Camera:

   • Lightweight camera or smartphone for capturing memories.

   • Extra batteries or a portable charger (cold drains batteries quickly).

Optional but Recommended

1. Gaiters:

   • For keeping snow, mud, and debris out of your boots.

2. Earplugs:

   • For better sleep in shared tents.

3. Notebook and Pen:

   • For journaling your experience.

4. Portable Power Bank:

   • To keep your devices charged.

Important Tips

• Rent or Buy: Some items (like sleeping bags, trekking poles, or heavy jackets) can be rented in Moshi or Arusha if you don’t want to invest in them.

• Pack Light: Porters carry your duffel bag, but there’s usually a weight limit (15-20 kg). Pack only what you need.

• Test Your Gear: Make sure all your gear is broken in and comfortable before the trek.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO GEAR RENTAL AT MOSHI 

If you want to save money, hiring equipment is relatively cheap and easy in Tanzania. Once our team checks your gear, we will take you to a hire shop where you can hire anything you don’t have. Payment is by USD or Tanzanian Shilling cash upon hiring, and after your climb, we’ll return the trekking gear for you.

Please note that hire shops often do not maintain their equipment, so there is no guarantee the item you are hiring will be waterproof or warm. We recommend you buy or borrow the essential items outlined above to manage this risk.