Although climbing Mt Kilimanjaro does not require specialized equipment, you do need to make sure all your gear is appropriate, serviceable, and in good working order. Consider both standard and personal demands for comfort and safety before embarking up the mountain: Do you have warm climbing pants? Good rain gear? A 10-degree bag? Trekking poles? Have you hiked more than 100 miles in your boots to break them in? 

A wise man once said that “climate is what you can expect, but weather is what you get” and on Kilimanjaro you can certainly expect some weather!

On your trek to the roof of Africa, you will be passing through five distinctive eco-systems each with differing weather and temperature variations from tropical to arctic. In order to feel comfortable and prepared for these changes, even if you have been hiking for years, you may need a complete head to toe rethink into the type of clothing you will bring with you to Tanzania. 

When hiking in temperatures that could range from 90 degrees Fahrenheit down to below freezing, having the proper clothing is important but even more important is just how you should layer that clothing so it performs to its maximum value. A hiker’s attire is all about practicality with substance over style. You will need items that will keep you dry when it’s wet, warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. Think breathable, comfortable, lightweight, durable and affordable. 

Proper technical outdoor attire does not cost, it pays! We highly recommend that all your trekking attire be made of synthetic material. None of your clothing should be more than 50% cotton.

Synthetic material is better at absorbing moisture without becoming heavy or uncomfortable and goes a long way in keeping you warm during your hike. If wet weather strikes, soaked cotton clothing will weigh you down and will contribute to hyperthermia. 

Cotton is hydrophilic, meaning it transfers sweat from your skin to the material itself, thus it’s horrible at “wicking” wetness away from skin. In fact, cotton attracts moisture and will become damp simply when exposed to humid air. Once wet, it feels cold, loses 90 percent of its insulating properties, is difficult to dry out,and wicks heat from your body twenty-five times faster than when it’s dry. Synthetic fabric lessens the heavy chilling effect caused by cotton and is lighter, not only when you are wearing it, but also when your gear is being carried up the mountain in your duffel!

Here is a useful video of how to pack your bag for climbing Kilimanjaro!