How to prepare for a Kilimanjaro trek

On the mountain, reliable gear is your lifeline. Cut corners, and you pay the price. Here’s the breakdown:

• Clothing: Layering is essential. Bring base layers, a fleece and a high-quality waterproof shell. Don’t skimp on hats, gloves or neck gaiters — you’ll need them when you reach the higher altitudes.
  
  
• Footwear: Invest in high-quality hiking boots, and make sure they’re properly broken in before your departure. Bring some camp shoes for comfort.
  
  
• Gear: A rugged daypack and adjustable trekking poles are essential. Plus, a sleeping bag that’s rated for minus 15 degrees celsius temperatures minimum.
  
  
• Health and safety: Any personal medicines, sunscreen, lip balm. Although a personal first aid kit is recommended, it is not compulsory for Elite Exped’s packages. You will go through health check twice per day in the morning and the evening, during the climb with our local guides. It is a regular health assessment, and also to get the oxygen level with an oximeter.
  
  We put safety as the number one priority, and the guides will also have first aid kits with them, with various medicines to provide to the climbers if needed: from nose block drops/spray to Paracetamol or any high-altitude medication.
  
  
• Extra:  High-energy snacks, reusable water bottles (Nalgene or stainless steel bottles, or hydration bladders), and a headlamp with spare batteries. It’s worth noting that the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority has implemented a ban on single-use plastic bottles to reduce litter and protect the environment, so a reusable bottle will be your only option to rehydrate on your trek.

Altitude is a silent killer, so proper acclimatisation is crucial. On the mountain, a local expression reigns king — “pole pole” (slowly slowly). Slowly ascending and staying hydrated is the best way to avoid symptoms of altitude sickness that could make or break your climb. Before you leave, make sure you know the early signs of altitude sickness — headaches, nausea and dizziness. If you experience any of these, be sure to let your team know right away. Clear communication is the best way to ensure your safety during your trek. If you are struggling, don't compare your pace to others. If you're finding it tough, we'll place you at the front to set the team's pace, with stronger climbers positioned at the back for support.

If you’re worried about being prepared for Kilimanjaro’s high altitudes or want to learn Kilimanjaro altitude sickness tips from the experts, check out our high-altitude training program. We’ve partnered with The Altitude Centre to provide bespoke training for our climbers and help them fast-track acclimatisation.

Here are our top tips for a successful Kilimanjaro summit.

1. Pace yourself: Pole Pole is a local expression for a reason.
2. Hydration is key: Hydrate like your life depends on it, it can help alleviate altitude headaches and will make your trek that little bit more enjoyable.
3. Embrace the unexpected: Weather changes, delays, discomfort. Roll with it. 
4. Develop mental fortitude: Visualise the summit and break the climb into manageable chunks in your head. This will help you find joy in the journey.
5. Don’t overpack: Every extra pound counts — pack lightweight, durable gear. Only pack the most important items you’ll need to have access to during your trek.
6. Listen to your body: Turning back doesn’t mean failure. It can mean survival.

Kilimanjaro isn’t a DIY project. Elite Exped will handle everything from logistics and safety to local expertise. If it’s controllable, we control it. Our three directors, with unmatched hands-on experience in all aspects of guiding and climbing, have an industry-leading success rate when it comes to summiting peaks. So, it’s no surprise that Elite Exped has successfully guided over 250+ clients to the roof of Africa. 

Our Kilimanjaro expedition package is your ticket to a seamless, focused climb. We get you prepped, we get you to the summit, and we get you back down safely. Don’t roll the dice, go with the pros.

Proper preparation can be the difference between reaching the summit and having to turn back. Packing right, understanding Kilimanjaro’s safety precautions, and comprehensive altitude training are crucial to being prepared for your trek. Take the next step with Elite Exped for a seamless climb and the maximum chance of reaching the summit.