Equipment List

Complete guide to essential equipment and gear for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Packing for Kilimanjaro

Proper equipment is essential for a safe and successful Kilimanjaro climb. This comprehensive list covers everything you'll need from base to summit. Remember: it's better to be over-prepared than under-prepared, especially for summit night when temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F).

Important Notes

  • •Essential items are marked and should not be omitted
  • •Test all equipment before your trip, especially boots and clothing
  • •Many items can be rented locally—check our Gear Rental Prices page
  • •Pack light but don't sacrifice essential items

Essential Clothing

Moisture-wicking base layers (2-3 sets)(Essential)
Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down)(Essential)
Waterproof/windproof outer shell jacket(Essential)
Waterproof/windproof pants(Essential)
Warm down jacket (for summit night)(Essential)
Hiking pants (2-3 pairs)(Essential)
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Hiking shorts (optional)
Long-sleeved shirts (2-3)(Essential)
T-shirts (2-3)(Essential)

Head & Hands

Warm beanie/hat(Essential)
Sun hat or cap(Essential)
Balaclava or neck gaiter(Essential)
Sunglasses (UV protection)(Essential)
Ski goggles (for summit night)(Essential)
Warm gloves (insulated)(Essential)
Liner gloves (thin)(Essential)
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Hand warmers (disposable)

Footwear

Hiking boots (broken in, waterproof)(Essential)
Camp shoes/sandals(Essential)
Hiking socks (4-6 pairs, moisture-wicking)(Essential)
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Liner socks (optional)
Gaiters (for summit day)(Essential)

Sleeping & Camping

Sleeping bag (rated -10°C to -20°C)(Essential)
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Sleeping bag liner (optional, adds warmth)
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Sleeping pad (provided, but you can bring your own)
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Pillow (inflatable or small)
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Earplugs

Backpacks & Bags

Daypack (30-40L for daily essentials)(Essential)
Duffel bag (for porters to carry, 70-90L)(Essential)
Waterproof bag covers or liners(Essential)
Dry bags or Ziploc bags (for organization)(Essential)

Hydration & Nutrition

Water bottles (2-3L capacity total)(Essential)
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Hydration bladder (optional)
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Water purification tablets (backup)
Energy bars and snacks(Essential)
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Electrolyte supplements

Lighting & Electronics

Headlamp (with extra batteries)(Essential)
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Backup flashlight
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Camera and extra batteries
Power bank/portable charger(Essential)
Phone and charger(Essential)

Trekking Equipment

Trekking poles (collapsible, 2 poles)(Essential)
Gaiters(Essential)
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Ice axe (not typically needed, but check route)
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Crampons (not typically needed)

Personal Care & Health

Sunscreen (SPF 50+, high altitude)(Essential)
Lip balm with SPF(Essential)
Personal toiletries (biodegradable)(Essential)
Wet wipes (for cleaning)(Essential)
Hand sanitizer(Essential)
Toilet paper(Essential)
Personal medications(Essential)
First aid kit (basic)(Essential)
Blister treatment (moleskin, bandages)(Essential)

Documents & Money

Passport (valid 6+ months)(Essential)
Visa (if required)(Essential)
Travel insurance documents(Essential)
Vaccination certificates(Essential)
Cash (USD for tips and extras)(Essential)
Credit/debit cards(Essential)
Emergency contact information(Essential)

Optional but Recommended

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Trekking watch with altimeter
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Binoculars
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Book or e-reader
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Travel pillow
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Multi-tool or knife
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Duct tape (for repairs)
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Ziploc bags (various sizes)

Packing Tips

Organization

  • • Use packing cubes or dry bags to organize items
  • • Keep essential items easily accessible in your daypack
  • • Separate clean and dirty clothes
  • • Label your duffel bag clearly

Weight Limits

  • • Duffel bag: Maximum 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs)
  • • Daypack: Keep under 5-8 kg (11-18 lbs)
  • • Porters carry your duffel, you carry your daypack
  • • Pack only what you need—every gram counts

What We Provide

To reduce your packing load, we provide the following equipment:

Camping Equipment

  • • Weatherproof tents
  • • Sleeping mats
  • • Dining tent
  • • Toilet tent

Kitchen Equipment

  • • All cooking equipment
  • • Plates, cups, utensils
  • • Hot water for washing

Gear Rental

Don't want to buy all the equipment? We offer gear rental for most items at reasonable prices. This is especially convenient for one-time climbers or if you're traveling light.

Available for Rent

  • • Sleeping bags (rated for cold temperatures)
  • • Trekking poles
  • • Duffel bags
  • • Some clothing items
  • • Headlamps
View Gear Rental Prices →

Questions About Equipment?

Our team can help you determine what you need and what you can rent. Contact us for personalized packing advice.

Contact UsView Rental Prices