During a day on Kilimanjaro the temperatures can easily range from the high 20's (centigrade) right down at night to -15c. To cope with this huge range in temperature your clothing and kit strategy needs to be based around combining lots of thin layers that you build up and take off as the weather demands.
A full printable kit list can be downloaded below.
Please note that Tanzania is implementing a ban on the use of single-use plastic bags on 1st June 2019. Please ensure that none of the items in your luggage are packed in plastic bags - if you are looking to separate items in your bag, please consider re-usable 'packing cubes'. Please also be aware that disposable plastic bottles are not permitted on Kilimanjaro.
Kilimanjaro National Park operates an absolutely strict limit of 15kg per porter for your main equipment bag, which includes your sleeping bag. This is more than sufficient for your needs on the mountain. Your bag will be weighed before you leave the hotel to start the climb and if it is overweight you will have to take items out and leave them at the hotel.
If you are packing for your climb it is important to really plan your clothing appropriately. This is why we recommend that you pack the following:
No. Extra oxygen isn’t necessary to climb Kilimanjaro. Using extra oxygen can actually mask the potential signs of altitude related illness, which can be serious if they are ignored. It’s recommended not to bring supplementary oxygen with you on your hike.
Gaiters, although not technically required, are highly recommended for climbing Kilimanjaro. 25% of climbers use them.
Beginners can climb Kilimanjaro with a bit of preparation, common sense, and an iron-will. Kilimanjaro has its difficult points, but, like anything, can be conquered if you’re determined.
At its summit, Kilimanjaro’s night time temperatures range from 20 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the mountain’s weather varies due to its great height and independant weather system. Weather can change quickly and go from one extreme to another.
You’ll want to wear hiking boots with medium to high tops. Your boots should fit well and be worn in well before your hike. Your boots should never be brand new at the time of your hike.
Kandoo specialises in creating trekking adventures for active people. Our small group tours take adventurers to the world's most famous challenging destinations, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, Machu Picchu, the Arctic, the Alps, Norway, Bhutan and Aconcagua.
DOWNLOAD our free comprehensive guide to planning your Kilimanjaro climb