Climbing Checklist Section
Kilimanjaro Climbing Preparation Checklist
Use this checklist to make sure you are fully ready for your Kilimanjaro adventure:
✔ Physical Preparation
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Build endurance with long hikes
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Practice uphill walking or stair climbing
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Add cardio: jogging, cycling, or swimming
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Strengthen legs and core
✔ Mental Readiness
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Prepare for long trekking days
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Commit to a positive mindset
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Get used to slow, steady pacing (pole pole)
✔ Altitude Safety
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Learn symptoms of altitude sickness
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Drink 3–4 liters of water daily
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Take acclimatization hikes
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Pack medication (consult your doctor)
✔ Travel Essentials
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Passport valid for at least 6 months
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Tanzania visa
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High-altitude travel insurance
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Required vaccinations (e.g., yellow fever if applicable)
✔ Gear Check
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All layers of clothing packed
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Hiking boots properly broken in
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Sleeping bag rated for –10°C to –15°C
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Trekking poles and headlamp
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Refillable water bottles
✔ Before Departure
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Confirm flight & transfers
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Recheck booking details
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Inform your operator of allergies/dietary needs
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Charge all electronics & pack extra batteries
✅ Packing List Table
| Category | Items You Need |
|---|---|
| Clothing – Base Layers | Thermal tops & bottoms, moisture-wicking shirts |
| Mid Layers | Fleece jacket, softshell jacket |
| Outer Layers | Waterproof jacket, waterproof pants |
| Insulation | Down jacket or synthetic insulated jacket |
| Lower Body | Hiking pants, warm trekking trousers |
| Footwear | Broken-in hiking boots, warm socks, camp shoes |
| Head & Hands | Warm hat, sun hat, gloves (inner + outer), neck gaiter |
| Sleeping Gear | -10°C to -15°C sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner |
| Daypack Essentials | Daypack (25–35 L), rain cover, water bottles or hydration bladder |
| Equipment | Trekking poles, headlamp + extra batteries, sunglasses |
| Personal Items | Sunscreen, lip balm, toiletries, wet wipes, first aid kit |
| Documents | Passport, insurance, visa, vaccination card |
| Snacks | Energy bars, nuts, chocolates, hydration salts |
✅ Route Comparison Table
| Route | Duration | Difficulty | Scenery | Crowds | Success Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Machame Route | 6–7 days | Medium–Hard | Excellent | High | Very Good | Most climbers; scenic lovers |
| Lemosho Route | 7–8 days | Medium | Outstanding | Medium | Excellent | First-time climbers; acclimatization |
| Rongai Route | 6–7 days | Medium | Good | Low | Good | Those wanting a quiet route |
| Marangu Route | 5–6 days | Medium | Good | Medium–High | Fair | Climbers who prefer huts |
| Umbwe Route | 6–7 days | Hard | Very Good | Very Low | Low | Experienced, strong hikers |
| Northern Circuit | 8–9 days | Medium | Best on the mountain | Very Low | Highest | Photographers & those wanting solitude |
| Shira Route | 7–8 days | Medium | Great | Low | Good | Those wanting a remote start |