Hiking Equipment - Conquering Kilimanjaro
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Trekking Poles, Hiking Boots And More
Investing in hiking equipment can be a daunting exercise. However, a successful summit attempt of any mountain is largely dependent on ensuring that one has the correct equipment right from the outset. Kilimanjaro is no exception. Due to the fact that the majority of Routes up the mountain are non-technical, many hikers make the mistake of skimping on equipment so as to save money. This ultimately results in an unpleasant climbing experience, as well as in most cases failure to reach the summit at all.
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For starters it will be necessary to purchase both a kit bag and a rucksack. The rucksack will be carried by climbers, whilst the kit bag will be carried on the heads of porters. In consideration for the porters the kit bag should thus be as lightweight as possible and not possess any wheels or protruding handles. When fully packed it should weigh at most 15kg.
The rucksack should ideally hold 30 to 40 litres and be fitted with both waist straps and chest straps, so as to maximise comfort and support. It should also be fully waterproof and hardy, so as to withstand all types of Weather on the mountain and keep the contents within it clean and dry. Finally, it should be fitted with loops large enough to hold two climbing poles.
Climbing poles can prove invaluable especially on the summit day and descent, by which time knee and ankle joints are likely to have taken a serious beating. Apart from providing tremendous support, they also aid in balance and conservation of energy which may both be seriously lacking by the end of the journey. There are numerous options available, from wooden walking sticks to adjustable metal poles. Although a pair of poles generally provides more support, many individuals find a single pole less cumbersome and easier to use.
At higher altitudes, evening temperatures on Kili often drop far below -10 degrees Celsius. Warm sleeping gear including a sleeping bag, and possibly a pillow are therefore nothing short of essential. On routes that make use of tented accommodation, an inflatable sleeping mat is also recommended so as to provide more insulation between climbers' bodies and the freezing ground below. Synthetic sleeping bags rated three or more are ideal, as are those fitted with an insulated hood which will provide even more protection against the cold.
Other items to take into account include toiletries, toilet paper, torches, batteries, a first aid kit, water containers and water purification tablets, a camera, pair of binoculars, spare shoelaces, snacks and a book or magazine for evenings when the effects of altitude may result in insomnia. It may also be worthwhile to invest in a waterless washing liquid and hand cleaner which will come in handy when water supplies become scarce. Most equipment can be hired either at the Kilimanjaro National Park entrance, or alternatively in the towns of Moshi and Niarobi. It is however advisable to purchase one's own equipment so as to ensure maximum comfort along the journey.
The Kilimanjaro Experience
