ADDITIONAL KILIMANJARO INFORMATION

CLIMATE:

Mount Kilimanjaro is only three degrees south of the Equator so although the climate is technically ‘equatorial’, it is essentially tropical. The long dry season (Jun-Oct) is followed by? Short Rains? (Nov-Dec). During the short dry season (Jan-Mar) it can be very hot and humid. 

The ‘Long Rains’ fall Apr-May. On the mountains, temperatures rise and fall only slightly throughout the year but vary considerably between night and day. Temperatures gradually fall as altitude increases. Above 4,000m, daytime temperature is usually around 5C dropping well below freezing at night.

BAGGAGE:

For your comfort we recommend you travel as light as possible; many airlines impose a maximum weight limit of 20 kg – we advise you to take a lot less!
We would suggest:

One main piece – soft bag rather than a hard suitcase as it can be easily stowed and carried by porters on the ascent. Pack lightly as space is restricted – max. 15kg. NB: any surplus baggage can be stored in Arusha during the ascent – it is vital not to over pack. Please take only bare essentials for the climb.

A daypack – For comfort we recommend a larger daypack or small rucksack with a comfortable harness and waist belt (30-40 liters capacity is ideal for carrying warm clothing, camera, water bottle etc.

CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR:

Its essential to keep yourself (and your baggage) dry at all times. Also, to cope with variable temperatures, the best strategy is to layer clothing, so you can adjust your temperature. You should not underestimate the freezing cold conditions you will encounter on the mountain. Although some clothing and equipment is available for hire locally, it?s impossible to guarantee its quality or availability, so equip yourself fully before departure. If you require further advice please contact your mountain climb consultants at:  info@amanihostel.net

the following is a suggestion of what you may find useful to take on this trip. It is not exhaustive and a more detailed packing list can also be found at Suggested Mountain Climb Equipments page.

• T-shirts (synthetic materials are best as cotton retains moisture)
• Waterproof thigh-length jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Gloves (waterproof warm outers + thin liners)
• Warm hat (or balaclava) that covers the ears
• Waterproof walking boots (well broken-in)
• Waterproof outer trousers _ Warm mid-layer (fleece or down)
• Warm long-sleeved shirt _ Warm walking trousers (not jeans!)
• Thermal underwear _ Walking socks (several pairs)
• Walking shorts
• Trainers or soft shoes for relaxing
• Sun-hat
• Gaiters

EQUIPMENT:

• Glacier glasses (or good quality sunglasses ? preferably with side shields)
• Personal first aid kit & essential medication
• Wet wipes
• Warm sleeping bag (3/4-season)
• Sleeping bag liner
• Trekking pole(s) – can be hired locally
• Small towel
• Head torch & spare batteries
• Spare plastic bags
• Water bottle(s) – minimum 3 litres capacity
• High factor sunscreen & lip salve
• High energy snacks, dried fruit, nuts, sweets, etc. NB: hang on to some till the last day – you?ll appreciate them more!
• A small bottle of cordial or squash concentrate (to liven up the ?flat? taste of boiled water)

MEALS
6 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 evening meals are included.

TIPPING: 
Tipping is an accepted part of life in Tanzania, and you will be expected to tip to reward service. You will be briefed on arrival as to when and how much is appropriate, however, depending on the size of your group you should budget on a personal contribution of around $ 45 to $ 50 for your trek guides, cooks and porters on the trek.

CLIMATE CHART

Arusha (1,390m) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Temperature: 

average high/low C 28/13 28/14 27/15 25/16 23/15 22/13 22/12 23/12 25/13 27/14 27/14 27/14

Rain: 

average monthly mm 66 77 138 223 83 17 8 7 8 24 119 103