Mt Kilimanjaro & Mt Meru Treks

Two excellent mountain treks within close proximity to each other. Of course Mt Kilimanjaro is the most famous, but Mt Meru is also a beautiful trek. It is often done as an acclimatization trek before attempting Mt Kilimanjaro. But it also does not require as many days as Kilimanjaro(or as much money) so it is a good choice if you are limited in either time or money for Kilimanjaro. See Mt Meru information further below on this page (or click here to scroll directly)

Those of you who cannot commit to a full Kilimanjaro trek but want a taste of the mountain should consider our non-summit short treks found here.

Why is climbing Mt Kilimanjaro such an enticing adventure?

To begin with, it is the highest mountain in Africa, thus making it one of the “Seven Summits” on mountain climbers bucket lists. Mt Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain that can be climbed without any technical climbing skills or special equipment. It is the highest free-standing mountain in the world (meaning it does not belng to a mountain range). It is also located near some great safari destinations and a short flight away from the beaches of Zanzibar.

Kilimanjaro is termed a “walk-up mountain” since it is technically considered a hike. So we choose to mostly refer to it a a trek rather than a climb. But that does not mean that it is “a piece of cake” to reach the summit. The biggest obstacle is adjusting to the change in altitude. At the summit (5,895m) there is only half the available oxygen compared to sea-level. Because it is not a technical climb, it is easy to ascend too quickly, not giving your body enough time to adjust to the change in altitude. Having an experienced, skilled guide is extremely important to gauge your health and to make any adjustments in pace early in the trek. Because of this, Mt Kilimanjaro National Park only allows mountain guides trained specifically for the dangers of Mt Kilimanjaro to lead groups. The dangers of a Mt Kilimanjaro trek are different than the dangers of a Mt Everest climb. Our guides are among the most respected on the mountain and will do anything possible to keep you safe and to give you the best chance to reach Uhuru Peak.

Mt Kilimanjaro/Mt Meru Packing List

The quantities listed are sufficient for a 7- 8 days itinerary. For shorter or longer itineraries adjust the quantities accordingly.

All items can be rented locally. There will be an equipment check before your trek starts to ensure you are properly prepared.

Clothing

1. 4-5 Pairs of underwear
2. Top and bottom base layer
3. 3-4 Short sleeve and 1-2 long sleeve trekking shirts
4. 1-2 Pairs of hiking trousers
5. 1 Fleece jacket
6. 1 Insulated winter jacket
7. 1 Insulated trekking trousers
8. 1 Hardshell jacket
9. Lightweight raingear
10. Headgear
11. Sun hat, ideally with a neck cover
12. Warm beanie or fleece headband
13. Bandana or neck gaiter
14. Headlamp
15. Sunglasses – Polarized (Glacier glasses are ideal)
16. Hands and Walking
17. Lightweight inner gloves
18. Warm outer gloves/mitts
19. Adjustable trekking poles
20. Footwear
21. Mid-weight hiking boots
22. Sandals/Trainers (for use at the camps)
23. 4-5 Pairs of trekking socks
24. 1 Pair of warm, thick trekking socks
25. gaiters
26. Bags/Packs
27. 80-90L Waterproof duffle bag
28. 20-30L Daypack
29. Daypack rain cover
30. Sleeping Accessories
31. 4-Season Sleeping Bag (temperature rating of at least 0° or at least -10° if staying at Crater Camp)
32. Sleeping Bag Liner

General Accessories

1. Water Bottles (enough for 3L)
2. Water Purification Tablets
3. Baby Wipes
4. Sweat-Resistant Sunblock
5. Blister Plasters (Band-aids)
6. Insect Repellant
7. General medications (Paracetamol, Imodium)
8. Diamox (optional – available in Moshi at a good price)
9. Pee bottle (optional)

Technology

1. Camera (optional – Note: Drones are not allowed)
2. Solar Backpack Charger (optional)
3. Power Bank (optional)
4. Spare Memory Card (optional)
5. Misc.

Energy Bars

1. Energy Drink Supplement
2. Zip-lock Bags (note: single use plastic bags are not allowed in Tanzania)

Trekking towel

1. Toiletries.