Kilimanjaro Trekking Preparation Guide

Health and LogisticsWhen you arrive in Tanzania, you should be as healthy as possible. No one with a sore throat, cold, or with breathing problems should go above 10,000 feet. Your state of mind is also important. It is important to realize that climbing Kilimanjaro is not a competition and no one should force his or her body beyond its capabilities.

Training
None of the routes are technical climbs requiring special equipment, but the trek is quite difficult for most people due to the high altitude (19,340 feet at the summit (5,896 M)) and relatively minimal acclimatization time. All routes except for the Marangu Route have some steep sections and rock scrambling. These routes are appropriate for those with hiking experience, but NOT for those with an extreme fear of heights. Trekking at high altitudes is much more strenuous than in lower mountains. We strongly encourage you to be in excellent shape so that you can complete the trek safely and enjoyably. Although porters will carry the bulk of your gear, you will carry a daypack full of items you may need during the day.

High Altitude Trekking
You will ascend to high elevations on your trek. This presents additional physical risks and challenges. It is important that you know how to minimize these risks and the discomforts of high altitude trekking. 

Clothing and Equipment
A list which has been compiled by staff and travelers who have climbed Kilimanjaro. You will need every item on the list and not much else.  Just as your body may need some preparation so will your clothing and equipment. It is worth putting some substantial thought behind it.  It is advisable to read the information carefully to avoid issues with weight restrictions, potential delays with baggage and the logistics of having the correct gear in the correct place.
Clothing Checklist: It may be worth practising wearing and using some of the clothing listed so that any potential problems are sorted out before your trip.
Equipment Checklist: A comprehensive and necessary list of equipment which unleashes the adventurer in you. 

Rental Equipment
Necessary list of equipment can be rented for your climb. It is all high quality, clean, and generally available in a variety of sizes. You’ll need to arrange this rental as early as possible prior to your arrival, so we can ensure availability. These items are rented on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Carry-on-Equipment List
This is a list of necessary trekking items which cannot be rented (in case of delayed luggage).  It is always worth being prepared for the unlikely event that your baggage doesn’t reach Tanzania at the same time as you do. In case your bags are delayed or lost we still want you to be able to climb. We suggest carrying on the plane a few extra items you may not have considered.

Photography
From the thick canopy of the tropical forest which girdles the base of Kili to the stark glacier white of the summit, your climb will cover “many worlds”. Capturing the various sights on film will be a great way to savor the magic of this mountain.

Tipping
It is customary to tip your mountain porters and guides. Tips are paid at the end of the trek and are given to the guides. You may well have more than one guide, but there will be one “head” guide, who will lead the trip and be the person in charge of the expedition and all the staff.

Camp Conditions
Any trekking route on Kilimanjaro besides the Marangu Route is a full-fledged camping "expedition". You sleep in mountain tents in campsites and you eat in a mess tent.    All gear is carried by porters except for your day rucksack and you travel as a self-contained unit.  Although the crew is there for camp chores, assistance is always appreciated; participation is a key ingredient in a successful trek.