Mount-Kenya.com

If your here you must be planning a trek up Mount Kenya in the near future and are looking a bit of advice on what to bring - obviously this is just a guideline and there'll be things we've missed out on but it gives you a general idea. Prior to departure make sure you speak to your local GP about Vaccinations, Malaria and Altitude Sickness.

Head

Wool hat – must cover ears

Shade hat – to protect against the equatorial sun – sometimes you’ll not even realise how strong the sun is so protection essential

Sunglasses – again protects your eyes against rays of the sun. 100% UV protection essential.

Upper Body:

T-shirts: 3 t-shirts, no cotton.

Long Underwear Top: 2 medium weight and one heavy weight pull-over.

Soft Shell Jacket: for hiking at higher altitudes and to be worn at camp. Should be full-zip.

Parka: Gore-Tex or waterproof nylon Parka that has been seam sealed. Important in case of rain.

Down or Synthetic Jacket: another layer with the aim of keeping you warm, particularly at higher altitudes.

Fleece Glove: lightweight glove to be worn while trekking and around camp

Shell Gloves: shell system for keeping out the cold. As always, good for higher altitudes.

Sleeping

Sleeping bag – as temperatures drop at night must keep you very warm. Do not buy a cheap thin one.

Sleeping pad/travel pillow – not essential but will ensure maximum comfort when sleeping and leave your body ready for the next big hike.

Lower Body:

Underwear: enough for the entire trek

Hiking Shorts: one pair of quick drying hiking shorts – good for hiking at lower attitudes.

Long Underwear Bottoms: wool or polypropylene

Pile or Wool Pants: fit loosely over the long underwear bottoms

Rain Pants: breathable waterproof pants with enough room to fit comfortably over the pile or wool pants.

Feet

Walking/Hiking Shoes – rough terrain so as comfortable as you can get. If purchasing new try to walk in them a few times prior to arrival in Kenya.

Light trainers or sandals – to be worn around camp after hike.

Socks – 4 pair heavy wool or polypropylene socks (2 to be worn at one time) and 2 pair thin socks to wear under those to keep feet try and prevent blisters.

Gaiters – breathable material. Keeps dirt and mud out of boots.

Carrying:

Large Day Pack: must have padded shoulder straps and waist belt. This will be used for carrying personal items that you may require throughout the day e.g. water, extra clothing, snacks, camera etc. and will be carried by you.

Large Duffel Bag: This will be carried by your porter; all other items on the equipment list go in here.

Plastic Bags: black rubbish bags offer extra protection from any rain you may run into while on the mountain. Items such as sleeping bag and clothes will be wrapped up. Also useful in separating dirty/wet clothes from clean/dry.

Personal:

Toiletries – toothbrush/paste, wet wipes to clean yourself, small towel etc.

Small first aid kit – also blister kit, plasters, anti bacterial wipes, oral rehydration, aspirin/paracetamol, malaria medication,

Insect repellent – high deet content

Water Bottles – 2 x 2 Litre

Water Purification

Torch – headlamp preferable

Lip Balm – SPF 15 or more.

Ear plugs – if your friends a snorer.

Sun Screen – always remember Mount Kenya is close to equator so high SPF – 15 or more

Snacks – such as cereal bars – this is just to keep the energy up in between meals.

Money – If getting your visa on arrival at the airport it costs $50. If you put aside a few extra dollars for tipping those helping you in the trek – guide, porter, and cook - it is always appreciated.

Walking poles: optional. Some find them helpful in the climb and descent – others find them uncomfortable.

Glasses: if any of you wear glasses or contacts be aware the dust can be harsh on these so bring an extra pair.

Photocopy of Passport and Insurance Certificates to be brought with you on the trek.