The Ultimate Kilimanjaro Climbing Gear Recommendations Checklist

Gearing up for the Ultimate Kilimanjaro challenge? We have compiled a list of all the gear you may need for climbing the highest mountain in Africa, the one and the only, Mount Kilimanjaro which also happens to represent the continent of Africa in the Seven Summits list. Being properly equipped and kitted is one of the most important segments of a successful mountain climbing expedition. Just to be on the safe side, it is recommended that you download and print our recommended ultimate Kilimanjaro climbing gear and final checklist here and tick all the essential items that you have accomplished.

It is also worth noting that luggage carried by each porter, your sleeping bag included should not exceed 15 kg(32lb) so it is important to check the weight of your duffel bag.

Other items like the sleeping mat and tents etc will not be included in the 15 kg limit for the porters.

You will only need your hiking gear while climbing the mountain, it is more sensible to leave extra luggage like casual clothes at your hotel in town (Moshi or Arusha)

Download the recommended Ultimate Kilimanjaro gear list

You can download the full checklist for Mount Kilimanjaro here or contact us via [email protected] and we will email the full final checklist to yours.

N.B: Most of these gears/equipment can be rented at an affordable price here in Tanzania. Let us know what items you will need for rental and we will assist you by contacting us here.

You can also download the list in PDF format here.

Technical Clothing

Proper clothing is not only important but also the deciding factor for a successful Kilimanjaro trek. The right gear will protect you from the harsh conditions in each zone on Kilimanjaro and keep you comfortable across a wide range of temperatures and conditions you’ll encounter on the mountain. From waterproof jackets to moisture-wicking underwear, each item plays a specific role in your overall comfort and safety. Below are the recommended technical clothing that you will need  for your hike.

Look After Your Head

You must protect your head by all means possible. Your head is ultimately vulnerable to the harsh conditions on Kilimanjaro, including intense sunlight and freezing winds. A brimmed hat will shield you from UV rays, while a knit hat and a balaclava or buff will provide essential warmth and protection against cold weather. Ensuring your head is properly covered will help regulate your body temperature and prevent heat loss. Below is the recommended head gear for climbing Kilimanjaro.

Keep Your Hands Warm and Dry

Keeping your hands warm and dry is vital, especially in cold and wet conditions. Proper gloves will protect your hands from frostbite in the alpine zone of Kilimanjaro, especially around the summit, Uhuru Peak and keep them functional. Thin gloves can be used for milder weather, while warm, waterproof gloves are essential for higher altitudes where temperatures drop significantly.

And Of Course Your Feet

Your feet will bear the brunt of the Kilimanjaro hiking journey, so investing in quality footwear and socks is paramount. Hiking boots should be warm, waterproof, and well broken-in to prevent blisters. Additional items like gaiters and gym shoes can provide extra protection and comfort during different parts of the trek. Below is the recommended list of footwear for climbing Kilimanjaro.

Accessories

Accessories can enhance your trekking experience by providing additional comfort, convenience, and protection. Items like sunglasses, water bottles, and waterproof backpack covers can make a significant difference in your overall enjoyment and safety on the mountain. These accessories ensure you are well-prepared for various conditions and challenges. Check out the recommended accessories for hiking Kilimanjaro.

Equipment

Climbing Kilimanjaro does not require special equipment like ice axes and trampons. Essential equipment includes items that support your basic needs for shelter, navigation, and rest. A warm sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a reliable headlamp are crucial for comfort and safety. Proper equipment allows you to manage the physical demands of the trek and handle unexpected situations effectively. Check out our recommended equipment for climbing Kilimanjaro.

Paperwork

Having the necessary paperwork is essential for a hassle-free journey. This includes your trip receipt, passport, visa, and immunization papers. Ensuring you have all required documents will streamline your travel and entry into Tanzania, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead.

• Trip Receipt: Proof of your booking.
• Passport: Ensure it’s valid and has necessary visas.
• Visa: Available on arrival at JRO (Kilimanjaro International Airport).
• Immunization Papers: Proof of required vaccinations.
• Insurance Documents: Health and travel insurance details.

Personal Items

Personal items encompass everything you need for daily hygiene, health, and convenience. From toiletries to prescription medications and snacks, these items will keep you comfortable and healthy throughout your trek. Proper personal items ensure you can manage your daily routines and any unexpected health issues effectively.

• Toiletries: Personal hygiene items.
• Prescriptions: Any necessary medications.
• Sunscreen: To protect against sunburn.
  • Suggested Brands: Neutrogena, Banana Boat, Coppertone
• Lip Balm: To prevent chapped lips.
  • Suggested Brands: Burt’s Bees, Carmex, ChapStick
• Insect Repellent: Containing DEET to protect against insect bites.
  • Suggested Brands: Off!, Repel, Sawyer
• Hand Sanitizer: For hygiene.
  • Suggested Brands: Purell, Germ-X, EO
• Toilet Paper
• Wet Wipes: Recommended for personal hygiene.
  • Suggested Brands: Wet Ones, Babyganics, DUDE Wipes
• Snacks: Lightweight, high-calorie, high-energy (optional).
  • Suggested Brands: Clif Bar, KIND, RXBAR
• Electrolytes: Powder or tablets to stay hydrated (optional).
  • Suggested Brands: Nuun, Skratch Labs, Tailwind
• Camera: With extra batteries (optional) to capture memories.
  • Suggested Brands: GoPro, Canon, Nikon
• Ziploc Bags: To protect camera, binoculars, etc. from dust.
  • Suggested Brands: Ziploc, Glad
• Money Belt: To secure your passport and valuables.
  • Suggested Brands: Eagle Creek, Pacsafe, Travelon

Medical and First Aid Supplies

Carrying a well-stocked first aid kit is vital for addressing minor injuries and common ailments that may occur during the trek. This includes headache tablets, altitude sickness medication, and antiseptic cream. Being prepared with the right medical supplies will help you handle health issues promptly and continue your journey safely.

• Headache Tablets: For relief from headaches.
  • Suggested Brands: Advil, Tylenol, Aleve
• Altitude Sickness Medication: Diamox, if not allergic to sulphur.
  • Suggested Brands: Acetazolamide (generic)
• Diarrhoea Medication: Imodium for relief from diarrhoea.
  • Suggested Brands: Imodium, Pepto-Bismol
• Nausea Medication: Valoid for relief from nausea.
  • Suggested Brands: Dramamine, Bonine
• Malaria Prophylaxis: To prevent malaria.
  • Suggested Brands: Malarone, Doxycycline
• Water Purification Tablets: To ensure safe drinking water.
  • Suggested Brands: Katadyn, Aquamira, Potable Aqua
• Painkillers: For relief from pain.
  • Suggested Brands: Advil, Tylenol, Aleve
• Medication for Muscular Sprains
  • Suggested Brands: Icy Hot, Tiger Balm
• Plaster and Bandages: For abrasions, blisters, and cuts.
  • Suggested Brands: Band-Aid, Nexcare, Elastoplast
• Antiseptic Cream: Betadine for disinfecting wounds.
  • Suggested Brands: Betadine, Neosporin
• Medication for Flu and Colds
  • Suggested Brands: DayQuil, NyQuil, Mucinex
• Eye Drops
  • Suggested Brands: Visine, Refresh, Systane
• Insect Repellent: To protect against insect bites.
  • Suggested Brands: Off!, Repel, Sawyer

Well, folks, that is about all the items you need for your successful trek in Tanzania. Always remember, if you want to download and keep or print the ultimate Kilimanjaro gear list of recommended things to pack for fire references, please refer to this link or contact us at [email protected] for clarifications and any questions that may arise.  Make sure you carry all the important gear, but if you forget some of them or are not able to carry them, you can rent any gear here in Tanzania. There are several rental stores on Moshi and Arusha, where you can just walk in and hire anything you need.