General Information for Kilimanjaro & Mount Meru Treks

Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for a safe, comfortable, and successful trek with Ramson Tanzania Safari Tours.

1. Trekking Gear & Warm Clothing

It is essential to bring all the necessary trekking gear and clothing for the entire duration of your trek. While some items can be hired at the park gates, availability is limited and quality is not always guaranteed.

2. Medical Condition

We assume every trekker has received medical clearance from their doctor before booking, particularly if you have any history of cardiac issues, high or low blood pressure, or respiratory/pulmonary conditions.
Park regulations prohibit trekking above 3,000 m if you have a cold, sore throat, cough, or elevated temperature.

3. Mountain Sickness

Every trekker should understand the risks associated with high altitude. The information below is for guidance only — we strongly recommend further reading on altitude-related illnesses before your trip.

• Frostbite: Caused by extreme cold. Prevent it with well-insulated gloves and thick wool socks.

• Hypothermia: Occurs when the body’s core temperature drops due to inadequate clothing, wetness (from sweat or rain), or exhaustion. Wear layered, breathable, waterproof clothing and stay active. Severe cases can lead to disorientation, confusion, and danger.

• Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): Caused by rapid ascent and poor acclimatisation. Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and swelling of hands/feet. Prevent it by ascending slowly, eating and drinking properly, and staying hydrated.

• More serious conditions (e.g. pulmonary or cerebral oedema): Symptoms include shortness of breath, gurgling in the chest, frothy or blood-tinged sputum, and severe cough. These are medical emergencies — inform your guide immediately and descend to a lower altitude without delay.

Important: All our trekkers are covered by AAR Emergency Rescue and Evacuation Insurance.

4. Water & Hydration

To prevent dehydration and help with acclimatisation, drink 1.5–3 litres of water per day.
At high altitude the air is very dry, so you lose significant fluid through breathing and sweating. Dehydration thickens the blood and increases health risks.
Monitor your urine: it should be clear and you should produce at least 1–1.5 litres per day. Wear removable layers and stay active to manage sweat.

5. Pace

Walk at a slow, steady “pole pole” (Swahili for “slowly slowly”) pace. Combined with plenty of water, this is the best way to acclimatise and reduce the risk of mountain-related illnesses.

6. First Aid Kit

Carry a small personal first-aid kit and know how to use the medication inside. Pay special attention to remedies for tropical conditions and altitude-related issues.

7. Baggage Type & Weight Limit

• Suitcases are not permitted on the mountain.

• Use a waterproof rucksack or duffel/sausage bag.

• Total weight (including clothing and equipment) must not exceed 15 kg.
  Excess luggage requires an additional porter at extra cost.

8. Park Regulations

Both Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru are within national parks. All park rules must be strictly followed at all times. Your guide carries the permit and will explain the key regulations.

9. Meals

Most people have a good appetite up to around 4,000 m. We recommend light, carbohydrate-rich foods.
Sample meals provided on the mountain:

• Breakfast: Fruit juice, fresh fruit, cereal/porridge, eggs, bread or pancakes, sausages/salami, margarine, jam/honey, tea/coffee/drinking chocolate.

• Snacks: Peanuts, crisps, popcorn, cookies.

• Lunch: Fresh carrot & cucumber, avocado, boiled egg, vegetable/meat cutlets, sandwiches.

• Dinner: Soup, bread, salad, rice/pasta/potato, chicken or meat, mixed vegetables, lentils, fruit salad or fruit with custard, tea/coffee/milo.

10. Our Prices – What’s Included

• All park entry, camping/hut, and rescue fees

• Transfers to/from the mountain

• Professional English-speaking mountain guide, assistant guide(s), porters & cook

• Full board (3 meals a day while on the mountain)

• All camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, chairs, tables, mess tent)

• Walking sticks, headlamps, gloves

• AAR Emergency Rescue and Evacuation Insurance

Not included:

Personal expenses, accommodation before/after the trek, hired clothing/equipment, and crew tips.

11. Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is not included in the price and is given at the end of the trek based on your satisfaction. As a general guideline, 5–10% of the total tour cost is appreciated by the crew.12. Recommended Items Checklist

• Waterproof rucksack & daypack

• Sleeping bag (minimum 3-season)

• Hiking boots and light trainers

• Balaclava or woollen hat

• Scarf

• Snow goggles/sunglasses

• Gaiters

• Gloves and mittens

• Sweaters/jumpers

• Waterproof & windproof pants and jacket

• Long-sleeved shirts

• Anorak/raincoat

• Thermal underwear

• Several pairs of socks

• Small towel and wash kit

• Water bottle

• First aid kit and insect repellent

• Sun protection cream and lip salve

• Flashlight (head-mounted preferred) + spare batteries

• Whistle

• Plastic bags

• Wooden walking stick or ski pole

• Toiletry items

• Roll mats + insulation pads

Note: Layer several thin garments rather than a few thick ones. Choose clothing that allows ventilation. Synthetic fabrics are ideal as they dry quickly. Break in your boots well before the trek to avoid blisters and discomfort.Any questions?
We’re here to help! Just write to us and we’ll be happy to answer.