What to Bring for a Safe and Successful Summit

Packing for Kilimanjaro isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about layering smart, keeping dry, and carrying only what you need. The weather on the mountain ranges from hot savannah to alpine cold, so your gear must handle it all.

We’ve put together a complete, expert-recommended gear checklist to make sure you’re ready—whether you’re trekking the Machame, Lemosho, or Rongai Route.

🧥 Essential Clothing (Layering System)

Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking)

• 2–3 thermal tops (synthetic or merino)

• 2–3 thermal leggings

Insulating Layers

• 1–2 fleece or down mid-layers

• Insulated down jacket (for summit night)

Outer Shell (Waterproof & Windproof)

• Waterproof jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or similar)

• Waterproof pants

Trekking Clothes

• 2–3 quick-dry shirts

• 2 pairs trekking pants

• Lightweight fleece or hoodie

• Warm hat & sun hat

• Buff or neck gaiter

• Gloves: 1 pair thin liner gloves, 1 pair insulated mittens

👟 Footwear

• Broken-in trekking boots (waterproof, high-ankle support)

• Camp shoes/sandals

• 3–4 pairs of moisture-wicking socks (plus warm summit socks)

• Gaiters (recommended for Lemosho / Machame in wet season)

🛌 Sleeping Gear

• Four-season sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C/14°F)

• Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth and hygiene)

• Inflatable pillow (optional)

Most tour operators, including Dream Peak Safaris, provide tents and sleeping mats.

🎒 Backpacks & Bags

• Daypack (25–35L) with rain cover

• Duffel bag (60–90L) for porters to carry

• Waterproof dry bags or packing cubes (to keep clothes organized and dry)

🧴 Toiletries & Personal Items

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) & lip balm

• Biodegradable wet wipes & hand sanitizer

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant

• Quick-dry towel

• Toilet paper & zip-lock bags (carry-out trash rule)

• Menstrual hygiene supplies (if needed)

💊 Health & Safety

• Personal medications

• Diamox (consult your doctor about altitude sickness prevention)

• Ibuprofen/paracetamol

• Water purification tablets or filter bottle

• Blister treatment kit (moleskin, Compeed)

• Electrolyte tablets

🔦 Accessories & Extras

• Headlamp + extra batteries

• Trekking poles (highly recommended)

• Sunglasses (UV protection)

• Water bottles (2–3 liters total capacity) or hydration bladder

• Energy snacks (nuts, protein bars, dried fruits)

• Camera or phone with power bank

• Journal or Kindle (optional)

✅ Tip: Pack light but smart. Porters will carry your main duffel bag, but you’re responsible for your day-pack. Stick to the essentials.