Physical condition for Your Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb
Although it is not necessary to be an Olympic athlete, you do need to be in good health. Preparing to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro should be accompanied by a physical exam from your family doctor. To prepare yourself for the climb, it is a good idea to start an exercise program, especially if you have never done something like this before. Do aerobic exercises to increase your body’s ability to use oxygen, and remove some of the spare weight you may be carrying around. Another great way to get in shape for your climb is to hike smaller trails. While doing this, you should wear the daypack
, slowly adding weight to it until you get to about 20 pounds. Another recommendation is to wear the hiking boots on your short hikes that you will wear on your climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro. This assists in breaking in the boots.
Equipment for the Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb
A guide and porters will accompany you on your climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. The porters will carry most of your gear. You are responsible for carrying your own daypack with things like rain gear, water, and other small personal items. It is important to double check with your tour operator, but generally, they will provide the common items, like tents, food, water, cooking supplies, etc. You will want a good daypack for the climb. It must fit well and be comfortable; you will be wearing it a lot. To keep you warm at night a sleeping bag rated for at least 10 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended. Another major piece of equipment you will need is a good set of trekking poles. You will also need to bring along various types of clothing for the different weather you will experience, and good footwear for hiking and walking around camp. Try to keep your supplies around the 35-pound area. Going over this weight might mean you will need to pay for a second porter to help carry your things. It is good to check with your Mount Kilimanjaro tour operator on their specific policies.
