Accommodations on Kilimanjaro

When planning your climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, choosing where to stay is a key part of the experience. There are two main options: tented camping and mountain huts. If you’re taking routes like Lemosho, Machame, or Rongai, camping will be your go-to. Campsites are set up at different elevations to help with acclimatization, and they offer breathtaking views. Tour operators typically supply roomy tents along with sleeping mats or pads, so after a long day of hiking, you’ll have a cozy spot to rest.

If you prefer something more structured, the Marangu Route stands out with its mountain huts—Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo Huts. These huts provide dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and shared toilets, giving you a more organized accommodation setup. However, they can be less private and require booking in advance since they’re popular.

Whether you choose camping or huts comes down to personal preference. Camping brings you closer to nature, with the magic of sleeping under the stars, while the huts offer a bit more comfort and shelter. Both options require careful preparation to avoid altitude sickness, stay hydrated, and pack essentials like sleeping bags and warm clothes. No matter the choice, proper planning and expert guidance will help you enjoy an unforgettable Kilimanjaro climb.

What do you wear to sleep on Kilimanjaro?

Choosing the correct sleepwear for a Kilimanjaro trip is critical for ensuring comfort and warmth in the various temperatures encountered during the trek. Given the severe temperature decreases, especially at higher elevations, it is recommended that you dress in layers. A moisture-wicking base layer is vital for wicking sweat away from the skin and keeping you warm. A thermal insulating layer on top of the base layer adds warmth, and a good-quality, cold-rated sleeping bag is required for insulation on frigid nights. Wearing socks and a beanie might also help to keep the body warm.

In addition, a neck gaiter or balaclava is recommended to protect the face and neck. Sleepwear should be versatile, allowing for changes as temperatures rise and fall throughout the night. Climbers can improve their overall comfort and get a good night’s sleep on the Kilimanjaro slopes by carefully selecting and layering sleepwear.