Most gear problems on Kilimanjaro start at home: a boot that was never broken in, a headlamp whose batteries died in the cold. This checklist covers what to confirm in the last seven days before you fly to Arusha. For every item on the full packing list, see Pack Wisely Before Climbing.
Documents and money
Passport valid for your travel dates, and your Tanzanian visa arranged
Photocopies of your passport front pages, visa, flight schedule and yellow fever record. Leave one set at home and keep one in a separate bag.
Yellow fever vaccination record in your hand luggage
Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and rescue, plus trip cancellation. Check that the policy covers trekking to 5,895 m.
US dollar cash for tips and extras. Our tipping guide has the daily rates per crew member.
Health
A conversation with your doctor about altitude medication. Diamox is the one most trekkers ask about, and it matters if you’re allergic to sulpha drugs.
Malaria prophylaxis discussed with your doctor. Mosquito repellent is for the lowlands around Arusha and Moshi.
Essential prescription medicines in your hand luggage, in case your checked bag is lost
A blister kit, plasters and your usual painkillers
Gear that has to be tested before you arrive
Boots: broken in over several long walks, in the socks you’ll wear on the mountain
Waterproof shell and trousers: seams sealed, and no leaks in the rain
Base layers: wool or synthetic. Cotton next to the skin pulls heat from your body once you sweat.
Headlamp: working, with spare batteries. Cold drains them quickly, so they sleep in your sleeping bag at night.
Sleeping bag: rated for nights at or below freezing at the higher camps
Daypack: hangs from both shoulders and has a waist belt. Wear it on your training walks so your shoulders and hips are used to it.
Water bottles: wide-mouthed bottles, not hydration bladders. Hoses and spouts freeze, crack and leak at altitude.
Sun protection: brimmed hat, UV-rated sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen and SPF lip balm
Weigh your duffel
Our porters carry no more than 20 kg each. Keep your duffel at 10 kg or less, weighed at home, not at the hotel. Clean clothes for after the climb and everything else stay at your Arusha hotel.
Rent it instead of buying it
We rent used mountain gear in good condition. If you’re missing a sleeping bag, a shell or trekking poles, email info@jaribuafrica.com with what you need and your sizes before you travel. That’s cheaper than buying kit you’ll use once.
What you don’t need to pack
We supply filtered water from Katadyn Expedition filters, with iodine tablets for emergencies, so you don’t need to bring either. Meals are cooked on the mountain, and we can do full vegetarian menus. Tell us any dietary needs before you arrive.
The last 24 hours
Charge your phone and camera. There’s no electricity on the mountain, so carry a charger or power bank.
Pack the three-pin square adaptor for your hotel
Lay out your summit-night layers where you can reach them first
Reweigh the duffel
FAQ
What should I check before climbing Kilimanjaro?
Your documents and insurance, your boots, shell and headlamp, your doctor’s advice on altitude medication, and the weight of your duffel.
How heavy can my duffel bag be?
10 kg or less. Our porters carry no more than 20 kg each.
Can I rent Kilimanjaro gear instead of buying it?
Yes. We rent used mountain gear in good condition. Email us with what you need before you travel.
Do I need to bring water purification tablets?
No. We provide filtered water and carry iodine tablets for emergencies.
