Kilimanjaro starts on the dusty hot plains around Moshi town and then moves to the lush villages on the slopes of Kilimanjaro.  From here you ascend through tropical rainforest, alpine desert to near arctic conditions at the summit.  Many people fail to reach the summit because they are ill equipped and sometimes people die in the attempt. 

Be properly equipped it is an essential part of your preparation to ensure that you are well geared up for the attempt on Kilimanjaro.  

To be physically prepared is also important.  You will be hiking to the top, it is a demanding hike and make sure your body is adequately prepared for the physical challenges that lay ahead.  In the months and weeks before your departure for Tanzania take part in a training program to ensure your body is in shape for your Kilimanjaro expedition.

Mental preparation is also important you should always remain in a positive state of mind, but not overly confident.   Your mental stamina will without a doubt, make the difference on the last day when you climb toward the summit.   Try to look ahead at what may happen, situations you may encounter on the mountain.   

Adequate travel insurance is important, be certain that your travel and medical insurance, will also provide you with cover for the climb up Kilimanjaro.
 
Your guides will instruct you on the best way to reach the top of Kilimanjaro, it is in there interest that you reach the top so listen to them – They Know Best. When climbing you will be repeatedly told ‘pole pole’ [pronounced poley poley] which is to say take it slowly in Swahili; besides the first day or two the scenery is lovely so take a leisurely pace and enjoy the surroundings.  Many times people want to take the climb quickly and attitude sickness stops them short of reaching their goal – the highest point in Africa.

You will be also told to drink water – make sure you drink at least four liters of liquid per day - preferably water.  Water on the mountain is safe to drink from the second day onwards, but care should always be taken.   Remember a stomach upset can dehydrate and this will make the climb all the more difficult, if not dangerous.  
 
Climb as lightly as possible, this becomes even more important on your summit night - extra weight will slow you down and will also make breathing more difficult.  Remember that you will be on the mountain for at least 5 or 6 days. You need to take enough clothing, especially socks to last for this period. Due to frequent rainfall as well as numerous streams on the routes, it is advisable to pack items individually in your bag. These individually packed items should be wrapped in plastic bags to prevent them from getting wet in case of rain or of being accidentally dropped in a stream.

A ski - pole is essential as it reduces external and internal loads on the knee joints using one ski pole is a must, but two poles are recommended.  These can be rented in Tanzania.  Replace your head lamp and camera batteries with new ones on your summit night; be a good scout and be prepared.

Clothing : You will require the correct underwear, thermal hiking socks, gloves (preferably mittens), warm head protection, rain coat, sunglasses and sun block cream. Also remember your hiking boots and very importantly, the walking stick / ski-pole mentioned above.

One of the most critical items of clothing is an outer jacket. You want it to perform the functions of keeping you warm, protect you at temperatures of as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius, keep the wind out and yet still breath. Try to avoid tight fitting clothing or underwear. This will hamper circulation, causing either cold or discomfort on the mountain. A balaclava is a must, as it will protect your face against cold, wind, sun and snow.

It is very important to use proper thermal underwear with wicking properties (a fabric which has the ability to draw moisture away from the body). The middle layer should provide the insulation and a product like polar fleece will be adequate in this regard. The outer layer should be windproof, waterproof and breathable. Short of altitude and physical exertion, cold is one of the most serious obstacles when attempting to summit Kilimanjaro.  

Acute Mountain Sickness commonly affects people at high altitude, who are not accustomed to high altitude conditions. AMS can be lethal if not treated immediately or if its symptoms are ignored. Probably 70% of all people climbing Kilimanjaro will suffer to some extent from AMS. You should familiarize yourself with this condition and take preventative care.