Climbing Kilimanjaro can be an enchanting experience, which evokes images of the mystical Dendrosenecio forest and authentic wilderness. However, while immersing yourself in the natural scenery on the mountain may feel glamorous, the question of what to do when nature calls is not as romantic.
Indeed, sanitation and hygiene are a little bit of a taboo topic when it comes to knowing how to climb Kilimanjaro and stay clean.
Fortunately, there are a few options available to you while you’re at the campsites. However, knowing what to do between hikes is still a concern for many travelers and we’ll be discussing all of this in a little more detail later in this blog.
We will also discuss what shower and washing facilities there are on Kilimanjaro.
If you would like more information on how to prepare for a trip to Kilimanjaro, be sure to visit our Climb Kilimanjaro Experience Page and request our climb package by email.
What are the public toilets on Mount Kilimanjaro like?
What are the private toilets on Mount Kilimanjaro like?
Will I have access to my private toilet tent while hiking?
What’s the etiquette when using nature for my toilet business?
Are there bathrooms and showers on Mount Kilimanjaro?
How will I wash when on Mount Kilimanjaro?
How will I wash my hair when climbing Kilimanjaro?
We recommend using dry shampoo to keep your hair and scalp clean while climbing Kilimanjaro. Baby powder also works well for this purpose.
However, we do not recommend that you wash your hair with soap and water during your climb. This is because as you gradually get to the higher elevations, it becomes much colder. Rain, wind and cold weather are not uncommon, so washing your hair in the traditional way could potentially make you unwell.
Is it worthwhile to have a portable shower for my Mount Kilimanjaro climb?
Conclusion
The bathroom facilities on Kilimanjaro are fairly basic. Unless you opt for private toilet and shower facilities, you may find that the toilet is little more than a hole in the ground in a wooden shack, while some water is provided for you to wash.
However, the real challenge is knowing what to do when you are between hikes. Toilet facilities will be available at your camp. However, if nature calls while you are between hikes, then it’s a question of knowing when and how to answer.
If it’s really not possible to wait, then the key is to ensure that you leave no trace behind by taking a disposable bag with you to store any tissues which you can then discard in the bins at camp.
Of course, if you would prefer to use more Western-style or comfortable facilities while you are at camp, then you will need to hire your own portable shower or toilet tent that will be used exclusively by your group.
It is also advisable to take wipes as well as enough tissues to last you for the duration of your climb.
Regardless of whether you choose to use a private toilet or shower tent or the shared facilities, it is important not to allow concerns over the comfort to dissuade you from climbing Kilimanjaro or enjoying your climb.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is one of the most rewarding things you can do and the facilities are rarely as bad as you may imagine them to be.
However, if you are concerned about the cleanliness, hygiene or comfort of the existing bathroom facilities on your climb, then this is when you may want to hire your own, or consider joining a premium climb which includes a shower tent.
Solid waste on Kilimanjaro has been a concern in the past, but by following the guidelines in this blog, you can ensure your trip is a hygienic and comfortable one.
Whether you choose a VIP or standard tour package, your Kilimanjaro climb is likely to be one of the most memorable and satisfying challenges that you’re likely to take.
For more information about how to prepare for a trip to Kilimanjaro, be sure to check out our Climb Kilimanjaro Experience page and request our climb package by email.