TREK PREPARATION

Packing LIst

Download the list below to prepare/take stock of your gear. Don’t have an item? Now’s the time to determine whether you need to RENT or PURCHASE any necessary items.

Luggage

  • Only soft-sided duffel bags are acceptable for your trek and safari. Suitcases and bags with hard frames or wheels are not allowed.

  • There is a 33 lbs total weight limit (26 lbs for Machame route) for your soft-sided duffel bag, which will be carried by your camp porters.

  • Bring a daypack that you will carry during the trek and to serve as your carry-on bag for internal flights. Pack a selection of essentials inside your daypack, as noted on your packing list. For more details, read how to prepare your carry-on bag for travel.

  • Wear some of your Kilimanjaro clothing on the plane, such as your hiking boots, convertible pants, fleece, etc. If your bag is delayed, this will allow you to continue with the trek.

  • You will be required to hire an extra porter or carry the extra weight in your daypack if your trekking duffel bag weighs more than 33 lbs (26 lbs for Machame route).

  • If you are traveling on any internal flights, your checked luggage may not exceed 33 lbs This limit is set by the airlines; international flight baggage limits are less stringent.

Online store

Many of the items on the packing list can be found at the online Kilimanjaro store. Proceeds from every purchase are donated to the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC), an organization that supports porters and a better environment on Kilimanjaro. If you are continuing on a safari extension, refer to the safari packing list for additional items.

EXCESS BAGGAGE

As a courtesy, you may store excess baggage at the Arusha office at your own risk. It will be returned to you when you come back down the mountain. Similarly, you can store Kilimanjaro gear while on safari, if your itinerary allows. Remember to keep money, electronics, and valuables with you at all times.

ORGANIZING & LABELING YOUR BAGS

  • Put your address on a piece of paper inside your bags in case a luggage tag is torn off.

  • You might encounter rain on your trek, and while your porters will do their best to keep items as dry as possible, make sure to organize items in waterproof/dustproof stuff sacks, reusable vacuum storage bags, and packing cubes. We also recommend waterproof backpack covers to protect items in your daypack.

  • Make sure important items like camera gear and documents are safely sealed in waterproof/dustproof stuff sacks.

  • Any liquid items like toiletries should also be sealed in waterproof bags. Please note that plastic bags are banned in Tanzania, but it’s OK to bring a few Ziploc’s as long as they are used for storing items that come back home with you, like toiletries. You may not leave these bags in Tanzania.

  • Once you are completely packed, take a photo of your bags in the event you need to file a claim for delayed or lost baggage.