Ultimate Kilimanjaro Packing List
Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking):
2-3 thermal tops (merino wool or synthetic)
2-3 thermal leggings
Mid Layers (Insulation):
1-2 fleece jackets or pullovers
Lightweight down or synthetic insulated jacket
Outer Layers (Weather Protection):
Waterproof, windproof shell jacket (GORE-TEX® or similar)
Waterproof overtrousers
Trekking Pants & Shirts:
2-3 pairs of lightweight trekking trousers
2-3 moisture-wicking trekking shirts (long- and short-sleeved)
1 pair of warm trekking trousers (for higher altitudes)
Head & Hands:
Warm beanie or wool hat
Sun hat with a wide brim
Buff or neck gaiter
Liner gloves (thin, for mild conditions)
Insulated gloves or mittens (for summit night)
Footwear:
Sturdy, well-worn-in hiking boots (waterproof, good ankle support)
Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
4-5 pairs trekking socks (merino wool preferred)
1-2 pairs thermal socks (for summit night)
Gaiters (optional but useful in rain or snow)
- Warm four-season sleeping bag (rated to at least -10 degreesC / 14 degreesF)
- Sleeping bag liner (silk or fleece for extra warmth)
- Inflatable or foam pillow (optional)
- Trekking poles (collapsible, lightweight)
- Daypack (25-35L, with rain cover)
- Duffel bag (80-100L, carried by porters)
- Dry bags or packing cubes (for organisation & waterproofing)
- Headlamp with extra batteries (essential for summit night)
- Water bottles (2 × 1L) and/or hydration bladder (2-3L capacity)
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- High-SPF sunscreen (face & lips)
- Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste)
- Wet wipes (no showers above certain camps)
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Hand sanitiser
- Personal medication & small first aid kit (painkillers, blister care, altitude medication if prescribed)
- Energy bars, trail mix, dried fruit
- Electrolyte tablets or powder
- Camera or smartphone (with spare batteries/power bank)
- Travel journal or notebook
- Lightweight binoculars
- Small flag or memento for summit photos
– Pack light but smart – porters have a weight limit (usually 15 kg for your duffel bag).
– Waterproof everything – mountain weather changes fast.
– Break in your boots before you arrive.
– Test your gear (especially layers) on training hikes at home.




