Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Tips

[Asante Tanzania safaris]

Mt Kilimanjaro final checklist

For one to be able to successfully attempt the summit of Kilimanjaro, it is a strong advice to be properly equipped. Please look at the packing list below and cross check with what you have to ensure you  prepare yourself fully. it will be an essential part of your preparation for the climb. Please remember to limit the weight of your backpack, to be carried by the porters on the climb, to 15 kg (30 lbs.) or less. Extra luggage, including clean clothes to wear after your climb, can be left at the hotel in Arusha or Moshi.

Essential Items
Duffel bag - large enough for all climbing gear and clothing, to be carried by the porters. An extra bag to be left at the hotel with extra gear
-Small luggage lock - to lock zippers
-Day backpack - between 20 - 35 litres, large enough to carry your water, camera, raincoat, lunch pack, snacks & warm clothing
-Sleeping bag
-Ski-pole / walking stick
-Water bottle / containers
-Kilimanjaro map (Can be bought at Park gate)
-Waterproof, breathable & windproof jacket (outer wear like Ventex, Gore-Tex or Jeantex)
-Mittens or warm gloves
-Glove liners (if necessary)
-One pair thermal (polertex) socks
-Balaclava
-Gaiters

Hiking Gear
-Shorts
-Hiking pants
-Raincoat or Poncho
-Water resistant semi-stiff hiking boots - mid weight boots work great
-Shoes for overnight camps - i.e. sneakers, running shoes, etc.
-Socks - several pairs for the climb
-Liner socks - to keep your feet dry and limit the risk of blisters

Equipment

-Sun hat or similar (with a brim)
-Collapsible ski stick (optional but highly recommended)
-Water bottles - two or three (total capacity at least 6 litres)
-Head lamp, good strong one with spare batteries and an extra light bulb
-Water purification tablets
-Sunglasses, good quality dark lenses for the climb, with a securing strap
-Flashlight (torch) with spare batteries

Personal Effects
-Towel,Sun screen and lip protection, SPF 30+
-Ziploc bags, to protect camera, binoculars, etc. from dust
-Medical and First Aid Supplies
-Headaches—Syndols
-Altitude sickness-Diamox (if not allergic to sulpha)
-Nausea – Valoid
-Malaria – Prophylaxis
-Water purification tablets
-Painkillers
-Muscular sprains
-Abrasions blisters and cuts - Plaster, bandages
-Flu and colds
-Eye drops
-Insect repellent