From mountain huts to camping under the stars, Kilimanjaro offers different accommodation options. This guide covers hut stays, camping, and what to expect at each camp on the mountain.
Where you sleep on Kilimanjaro depends on which route you choose. The Marangu route offers mountain huts, while all other routes use camping. Here is a detailed look at both options and what to expect at each camp on the mountain.
Table of Contents
Accommodation Overview
Kilimanjaro accommodation falls into two categories: mountain huts and camping. Only the Marangu route has huts; all other routes (Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, Umbwe, Northern Circuit, Western Breach) use tents.
Both options provide basic shelter from the elements. The key difference is comfort: huts offer walls and a roof, while camping means sleeping in a tent on the ground. Neither option has electricity, heating, or running water at higher camps.
Mountain Huts (Marangu Route)
The Marangu route is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodation. The huts are simple wooden or metal structures with bunk beds, windows, and a dining area. They provide more shelter than tents and are easier to set up — no tent assembly required.
Hut Camps on Marangu
- Mandara Hut (2,700m) — Basic huts with bunk beds for 6-8 people. Communal dining area. Toilet facilities available.
- Horombo Hut (3,720m) — Larger camp with multiple huts. More facilities including a small shop for basics. Crowded during peak season.
- Kibo Hut (4,700m) — The highest hut camp. Basic stone huts with bunks. Cold and windy. Last stop before summit night.
Hut Pros and Cons
- Pros: No tent to set up, more shelter from rain and wind, social atmosphere, mattress provided
- Cons: Crowded (especially Horombo), less privacy, limited space, noise from other climbers
Camping Routes
All routes except Marangu use camping accommodation. Your crew carries all equipment — tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, and cooking gear. Porters set up camp before you arrive, so your tent is ready when you reach camp.
Camping on Kilimanjaro is comfortable enough. The tents are two-person, four-season models that withstand wind and rain. Sleeping mats provide insulation from the cold ground. You will sleep in a sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C.
Tent Setup
Your crew handles all tent setup and breakdown. Typically:
- Porters leave camp early to set up at the next camp
- When you arrive, your tent is ready with sleeping bag and mat inside
- A separate dining tent is set up with chairs, a table, and eating utensils
- In the morning, porters break down all tents and pack them before you start hiking
You do not need to set up or break down your tent — the crew does everything. This allows you to focus on hiking and resting.
Sleeping Gear
Your sleeping system is critical for comfort and safety. Here is what you need:
- Sleeping bag — rated to -10°C minimum; -15°C recommended for high camps
- Sleeping mat — provided by most operators; inflatable mats add extra warmth
- Pillow — stuff clothes into a bag for a makeshift pillow; some bring inflatable pillows
- Base layers — thermal top and bottom for sleeping; avoid cotton
- Warm hat and socks — you lose most heat through your head and extremities
Camp Facilities by Route
Machame Route
Camps: Machame Camp, Shira Camp 1, Shira Camp 2, Barranco Camp, Karanga Camp, Barafu Camp. All are tented camps with basic facilities. Barranco and Karanga have semi-permanent structures. Water is available at all camps.
Lemosho Route
Camps: Mti Mkubwa, Shira Camp 1, Shira Camp 2, then joins Machame. The first two camps are remote with fewer facilities. From Shira Camp 2 onward, facilities are similar to Machame.
Rongai Route
Camps: Rongai Camp 1, Rongai Camp 2, Kikelelwa, Mawenzi Tarn, Kibo Hut. The first two camps are basic with minimal facilities. Kikelelwa and Mawenzi Tarn have better infrastructure.
Northern Circuit
Camps: Multiple camps over 9 days. The northern camps are the most remote on Kilimanjaro with very basic facilities. Later camps join the standard route and have better infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own tent?
Most operators prefer you use their equipment for consistency and weight distribution. However, some operators allow you to bring your own tent if it meets four-season standards. Check with your operator beforehand.
Are there showers on the mountain?
No. There are no shower facilities on any Kilimanjaro route. You will use wet wipes for cleaning during the climb. Some luxury camps offer heated water for face washing, but full showers are not available.
Is there electricity at camp?
Most camps have no electricity. Some larger camps (Horombo on Marangu, Kibo Hut) may have solar-powered charging stations for small devices. Do not rely on charging facilities — bring a fully charged power bank.
How cold does it get at night?
Temperatures at high camps (Barafu, Kibo) can drop to -15°C to -25°C at night. At lower camps (Machame, Horombo), temperatures range from -5°C to 5°C. A good sleeping bag and warm layers are essential.
Can I upgrade my sleeping gear?
Many operators offer sleeping bag upgrades for an additional fee. An extra sleeping mat or inflatable pad can also improve comfort. Ask your operator about upgrade options when booking.
