{"id":13569,"date":"2018-05-08T15:00:41","date_gmt":"2018-05-08T14:00:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/?p=13569"},"modified":"2019-04-11T13:05:51","modified_gmt":"2019-04-11T12:05:51","slug":"essential-kilimanjaro-packing-list","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/essential-kilimanjaro-packing-list\/","title":{"rendered":"The Essential Kilimanjaro Packing List"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

There\u2019s a reason why Mount Kilimanjaro is coveted by many mountain climbers and trekkers varying from pros to beginners. The three-coned dormant volcano, set in northern <\/span>Tanzania<\/a> next to its border with Kenya, is not only Africa\u2019s highest mountain \u2013 it\u2019s also the world\u2019s highest freestanding mountain. At 5,895m (19,341 feet), it\u2019s no wonder that Mount Kilimanjaro sits at the top of any adventurer’s bucket list.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Travel to: <\/em>Kilimanjaro <\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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A trek to its summit isn\u2019t an easy undertaking and much preparation both physically and mentally is essential. Vigorous training and careful planning are vital, as is finding a knowledgeable and experienced guide and the right travel companions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Even well thought-out planning could mean the difference between life and death. To start you off with that part, here\u2019s a detailed list to assist you when packing for a <\/span>trekking tour of Kilimanjaro<\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Mount Kilimanjaro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What\u2019s the best time to climb Kilimanjaro<\/span>?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Any packing list requires a basic yet solid knowledge of the weather in the destination to which you\u2019re travelling. No words are truer than when you\u2019re about to climb the summit of one of the highest mountains in the world. <\/span>Every trek to Kilimanjaro not only requires a guide but also porters to carry your tent, food, cooking supplies and climbing gear.<\/span><\/p>\n

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See Also: <\/em>7 World Famous Treks Ranked By Difficulty<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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Still, you need to know not only what type of clothes or sleeping bag to take with you, but also what special items you\u2019ll require are dependent on the weather. Do you get cold easier than most people and need a warmer sleeping bag? Do you need hiking shoes with special support or are water-resistant? Do you need to pack snacks to tide you over until the next meal during the warmer months? <\/span><\/p>\n

The good news is, with Kilimanjaro being so close to the equator, it really only has two seasons \u2013 dry and wet, with the driest months being the ideal time for a climb.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Camping in Mount Kilimanjaro<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Dry season (August to October and December to February)<\/b><\/h3>\n

Kilimanjaro\u2019s driest months aren\u2019t necessarily its warmest. In fact, during the months of August, September and October you\u2019ll experience chilly to cold weather especially at night. That means you\u2019ll need warmer layers, wool socks, gloves and winter outwear that is also lightweight and durable. On the other hand, while December to February is warmer, there\u2019s a chance of rain which means that you\u2019ll need rain gear.<\/span><\/p>\n

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See Also: <\/em>Group Tours Vs Solo Travel: Which Travel Style is For You?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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Wet season (March to June and November)<\/b><\/h3>\n

Its wettest months experience moderate temperatures, but heavy rains make treks a lot harder and more hazardous, so much so many tour operators simply shut down for the season. A few remain open, and it\u2019s not unusual for some trekkers to take on the challenge. If you\u2019re one of them, be sure to take the necessary precautions as well as the necessary gear.<\/span><\/p>\n

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When is the best time to visit Mount Kilimanjaro?<\/b><\/h2>\n

The peak climbing season is from August to mid-October, and they certainly are the best months for such a challenge. You\u2019ll experience clearer, warmer days which means better visibility and hiking conditions. If you want to avoid the crowds, however, January and February are better alternatives.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Uhuru Peak<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Miscellaneous essentials to pack for Mount Kilimanjaro <\/b><\/h2>\n

Kilimanjaro packing essentials are more targeted towards survival than those for a trip to most tourist destinations, even the miscellaneous stuff. Also note that while trekking tour operators may have much of the gear you\u2019ll need on hand for rent, but it never hurts to be prepared.<\/span><\/p>\n

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See Also: <\/em>Which African Safari Is Calling You: Kruger Park or Maasai Mara?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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Thoughtful packing to make sure you have everything before you take off is important. Here are the sundry items you\u2019ll need to trek Kilimanjaro:<\/span><\/p>\n

Big items<\/b><\/h3>\n