Let’s start packing for Kilimanjaro. Summiting Kilimanjaro must be one of the most incredible things I have done with my life so far! If you love hiking, mountains and challenging yourself. This is something I would highly recommend you do.
I have created a simple packing list to help others pack for their Kilimanjaro climb. This list was created after I had summited Kilimanjaro, so I have cut out the things I didn’t need and kept it to the essentials. I completed my climb in June, and I was the first climb of the season. This means the weather may be a bit different compared to when you choose to do your climb, however everything on this list I still recommend you bring when packing for Kilimanjaro.
You will only be allowed 15kg for your Porter bag and will need to pack for 4 climates. A lot of items on this list can be rented in Moshi or from your tour company.
Table of Contents
Kilimanjaro Climate
Kilimanjaro weather can vary from very hot to extremely cold within one day. So, it is important to pack many layers. The base of the mountain, the average temperature is around 21 to 27 degrees Celsius. At the summit, Uhuru Peak, the night-time temperatures (when you summit) can range between 20 and -20 degrees.
Like all mountains, Mount Kilimanjaro’s weather is unpredictable. Even during the dry season, snow and rain are possible on the mountain. You will need to be prepared for sun, rain, wind, cold and even snow.
To give you an idea, it was -12 degrees when I completed my summit night. You will need multiple layers when packing for Kilimanjaro.
Packing List
Upper layers
- 2-3 Lightweight tops
- 2 Lightweight long sleeve tops
- 1 Thermal top (good quality)
- 1 Sleeping top (basic baggy top)
- 2-3 Sports bras
Lower Layers
- 2-3 Pairs of hiking pants or leggings
- 1 Pair of waterproof/windproof pants
- 1 Pair of Snow Pants (optional for summit night)
- 1 Pair of Fleece pants
- 1 Pair of thermal leggings (good quality)
- Underwear
Outer Layers
- 1 Puffer jacket (good quality)
- 1 Rain jacket (good quality)
- 1 Fleece jacket – excellent for layering
- 1 Puffer vest (optional)
- 1 Snow jacket – this will give you better warmth, otherwise you can layer like I did.
Head, Feet and Hands
- 2-3 Pairs of sock liners
- 4-5 Pairs of hiking socks
- 1 Pair of thermal/thick socks (for summit night)
- 1 Pair of merino wool gloves
- 1 Pair of thick gloves or mittens
- 1 Beanie
- 1 Buff
- 1 Thin balaclava
- 1 Wide brimmed hat Polarised sunglasses
- High raise hiking boots
- Sandals or comfortable shoes for camp
Accessories
- Hiking poles
- Hiking pillow
- Hand/feet warmers
- Head torch and spare batteries
- 2-3 litre water bladder
- 1-2 wide mouth water bottles (your bladder will freeze on summit night)
- 80-100kg Waterproof trekking bag
- 15-20 Litre Day pack
- Poncho
- Sleeping bag
- Ear plugs and black out eye mask
Toiletries
- Wet wipes (this will be your shower)
- Sunscreen
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- Hair brush
- Insect repellent
- Medications
- Face wash
- Small first aid kit
- Lip balm
Extras
- Camera/GoPro and batteries
- Phone (you will be able to take photos with your phone at the summit, if it’s kept near your body on the ascent)
- Portable charger/charging cords
- Kindle
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