One of the biggest concerns for Kilimanjaro climbers is bathroom facilities. This guide covers everything you need to know about toilets, hygiene, and staying clean on the mountain.
Let us address the elephant in the tent: bathroom facilities on Kilimanjaro are basic, but manageable. Knowing what to expect — and how to prepare — will make your climb much more comfortable. Here is everything you need to know about toilets, hygiene, and staying clean on the mountain.
Table of Contents
Types of Toilets
There are three main types of toilets on Kilimanjaro, depending on the route and camp:
- Long Drop Toilets — permanent structures found at most camps on popular routes
- Portable Toilets — plastic units that some premium operators bring
- Bush Toilet — in remote areas, you may need to go behind a rock or tree
Most climbers will use long drop toilets at camp and the bush during hiking hours. Premium operators sometimes provide portable toilets for added comfort.
Long Drop Toilets
Long drop toilets are permanent wooden or metal structures with a hole in the floor. Below the hole is a deep pit (hence "long drop"). They are found at established camps and are the most common toilet type on Kilimanjaro.
Long drops are basic but functional. They smell, especially at higher altitudes where cold temperatures reduce decomposition. They are usually unlit, so bring a headlamp for nighttime visits. Some have doors that lock; others do not.
Tips for Using Long Drops
- Carry toilet paper and hand sanitizer — most have no supplies
- Use a headlamp at night — the floors can be slippery
- Hold your breath and get in and out quickly
- Close the lid if there is one — reduces smell for the next person
- Do not throw trash in the toilet — pack it out
Portable Toilets
Premium Kilimanjaro operators provide portable toilets for their clients. These are self-contained units that are cleaner, more private, and better smelling than long drops. They are set up at each camp and packed up by porters each morning.
Portable toilets typically include a seat, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and sometimes a privacy tent. They are a significant upgrade in comfort and are worth requesting if your budget allows.
Bush Toilet
During hiking hours, there are no toilet facilities. You will need to find a private spot behind a rock, bush, or tree. This is completely normal and expected — everyone does it.
Bush Toilet Etiquette
- Walk at least 50 meters from the trail and camp
- Find a spot that is not visible to other hikers
- Dig a small hole (15cm deep) if possible
- Cover your waste with soil or rocks
- Pack out all toilet paper and feminine products — do not leave them
- Use hand sanitizer immediately after
Hygiene Essentials
Pack these hygiene items in your daypack for easy access:
- Toilet paper — remove the cardboard tube to save space; put used paper in a plastic bag
- Hand sanitizer — use before eating and after using the toilet
- Wet wipes — your best friend on the mountain; use for quick body freshening
- Biodegradable soap — for washing hands and face at camp
- Microfiber towel — quick-drying for face and hands
- Lip balm with SPF — lips crack badly at altitude
- Sunscreen — reapply every 2 hours; UV is intense at altitude
Washing Facilities
Washing on Kilimanjaro is minimal. Most camps have no running water — the crew carries water from streams or melts snow. Here is what to expect:
- Morning wash — hot water brought to your tent for face and hands
- Hand wash — basin with soap at the dining tent before meals
- Body wash — wet wipes are your only option during the climb
- Hair wash — not recommended; your hair will freeze and take forever to dry
Do not expect showers — there are none on the mountain. After 5-7 days, everyone smells the same. Embrace it. You will shower gloriously when you descend.
Menstruation on the Mountain
Menstruating on Kilimanjaro is manageable with preparation. Bring more supplies than you think you will need, and pack them in sealed plastic bags for disposal. Tampons and menstrual cups are preferable to pads, which can be bulky and difficult to dispose of.
If you prefer privacy for changing, inform your guide. Most female climbers simply change behind their tent or find a private spot. The crew is professional and accustomed to this. Carry extra wet wipes and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there toilets on every camp?
Most established camps on popular routes (Machame, Marangu, Lemosho) have long drop toilets. Remote camps on less-traveled routes may not have permanent facilities. Your operator will inform you of toilet availability before each day.
Can I use a pee bottle at night?
Many climbers use a "pee bottle" to avoid walking to the toilet at night. Use a wide-mouth bottle (like a Nalgene) to avoid spills. Label it clearly and keep it separate from your drinking water bottle. Empty it in the toilet in the morning.
What about toilet paper disposal?
Pack out all used toilet paper in a sealed plastic bag. Do not throw it in long drop toilets (they fill up too fast) or leave it in the bush (it does not decompose quickly at altitude). Your crew will dispose of sealed bags properly.
Is there hand washing at meals?
Yes, most operators provide a basin with soap and water before meals. Always wash your hands before eating and after using the toilet. Hand sanitizer is a good backup when water is limited.
What if I have digestive issues?
Bring Imodium and rehydration salts in your first aid kit. Digestive issues are common at altitude due to reduced oxygen and changes in diet. Stay hydrated and eat bland foods if your stomach is upset. Inform your guide if symptoms persist.
