A Kilimanjaro Medical Kit: What to Pack and Why
According to Hans Meyer—the first European to summit Kilimanjaro—the local Chagga people traditionally treated cuts and scars with cow dung. While that might have worked back then, we strongly recommend a different approach!
If you’re planning to climb Kilimanjaro, a personal medical kit is essential. Many budget tour operators don’t provide comprehensive first-aid supplies, and although mountain huts may have basic kits, their contents can be outdated or incomplete. To be safe, it’s best to carry your own.
What to Include in Your Kilimanjaro Medical Kit:
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Antiseptic cream – For cleaning and protecting small cuts or grazes.
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Plasters (band-aids) – For minor cuts and blisters.
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Bandages – Useful for sprains, strains, or covering larger wounds.
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Compeed (or similar blister plasters) – A must for blister prevention and treatment.
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Elastic knee supports – Helpful for steep climbs, especially if you have existing knee issues.
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Anti-malarials – While malaria is highly unlikely on the mountain due to the altitude, continue your prescribed course if already taking them.
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Painkillers (Ibuprofen, Aspirin, or Paracetamol) – For headaches, muscle soreness, and altitude-related discomfort. Always follow dosage instructions.
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Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth subsalicylate) – Effective for mild stomach upsets.
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Imodium (Loperamide) – Helps control diarrhea, which can be inconvenient on the trail.
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Insect repellent – Useful at lower altitudes during the first and last days.
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Oral rehydration salts (like Dioralyte) – Great for recovery after intense trekking or digestive issues.
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Lip balm or Vaseline – Essential for summit night when cold winds can crack your lips.
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Throat lozenges or pastilles – The dry mountain air can irritate your throat.
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Any personal medications – Include all regular prescriptions, along with enough doses for the entire trip.
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Diamox (Acetazolamide) – Used to prevent or reduce symptoms of altitude sickness (AMS). Consult your doctor before use.
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Sterile needles and syringes – Just in case you need a medical injection in Tanzania, it’s wise to bring your own sterile equipment.
Important Tip:
Pack everything in a waterproof case or dry bag, and carry essential items in your daypack. Hopefully, you won’t need any of it—but if you do, you’ll be glad you came prepared.
