Mountain Packing List/Climb Safety

To climb Mt. Kilimanjaro or Mt. Meru the equipment required is the same. Below is a list with the quantities needed for a Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb. For Mt Meru, reduce the quantity according to the number of days. Since airlines have tightened up their luggage allotments in recent years, if you find the list too cumbersome, you can rent (hire) the equipment in Moshi/Arusha. It is wise to arrive with at least one extra day before you climb since delayed luggage can cause much stress to your holiday. Of course we are always available to assist you.

Necessities

  • Hiking boots – waterproof & properly broken in (not new)
  • extra pair of shoes for around the campsite Teva or water sandals
  • Warm sleeping bag (at least rated for 0°C or 32°F)
  • Sleeping mattress (camping routes only)
  • Rain trouser and rain jacket
  • 2 fleece pullovers (layering lighter is better than 1 heavy fleece)
  • Windproof jacket with a hood
  • 4 long sleeve shirts
  • 5 T-shirts
  • Gaiters waterproof
  • Hiking poles – 1pair
  • 3 pairs of quick dry pants (full length side zipper pant legs are ideal)
  • Thermal underwear tops and bottoms
  • chums fleece pants
  • Good protective dark sunglasses with strap
  • Balaclava hat
  • scarf bandanna
  • Gloves waterproof
  • Toe and hand warmers for summit day
  • wide brimmed sun hat
  • Insulated water bottles 2 or 3 liters minimum (a camel-back is ideal)
  • 5 pairs warm socks
  • small personal first aid kit (cuts, blisters, upset stomach, sunburn, headache)
  • Zip lock bags and other plastic bags for wet clothes and to keep things dry
  • Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries

Optional Equipment

  • Camera and with extra batteries and memory cards
  • Small travel pillow
  • Sleeping liner
  • Travel wipes
  • Swiss army knife
  • Favorite snacks (high energy)
  • playing cards
  • Poncho
  • Reading material
  • Calculator (for money converting)
  • Emergency foil blanket
  • Ear plugs (in case your roommate snores)
  • Diary and pen
  • Binoculars

Climb Safety

With any physical activity, there is always a risk. If you have any physical conditions that may be a factor in your ability to climb, be sure to let us know in advance before your climb. Be sure to bring medications with you. The biggest health issue on a Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru climb is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) which is caused by the lesser oxygen at higher altitudes. It is difficult to predict which people will have issues with AMS. Some premier athletes have had to abandon climbs due to AMS while some less fit have had no symptoms at all. The guides of Kilimanjaro Vikings undergo continual training in recognising the onset of AMS and handling those effected. Of course, nobody likes to abandon their dream challenge but at times, a guide must act in the climbers best health interest. By listening to your guides and being honest and communicating any issues with your guide, your chance of a successful summit will increase. Kilimanjaro Vikings has far above industry average in percentage of climbers who successfully summit. At higher altitudes, many find their appetite diminish and may feel nauseous. Our chefs are aware of this and know what foods are easier to digest and make sure that the meals are appetizing and provide sufficient energy for your climb. In the case that someone in your group cannot continue, you will find that either our assistant guides are capable of either handling the emergency descent of the climber or to lead the rest of the group towards the summit. Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru have rescue service to aid emergencies. Feel free to contact us with any concerns you may have about a mountain climb.