One of the most common questions climbers ask is: what will I eat on the mountain? The answer might surprise you — the food on Kilimanjaro is genuinely good. Our mountain cooks prepare fresh, hearty meals at every camp, and proper nutrition is one of the most important factors in reaching the summit.
What a Typical Day of Eating Looks Like
Breakfast
- Porridge with honey or fruit
- Eggs — scrambled, fried, or boiled
- Toast with butter, jam, peanut butter
- Pancakes or French toast
- Fresh fruit when available
- Coffee, tea, hot chocolate
Lunch
- Sandwiches (cheese, chicken, egg)
- Hot soup — tomato, chicken, vegetable
- Hard-boiled eggs and snacks
- Fruit and biscuits
- Hot meals: rice, pasta, chicken stew
Dinner
- Starter: Soup (tomato, onion, garlic)
- Main: Chicken, beef, or fish
- Sides: Vegetables, rice, chapati
- Dessert: Fruit, crepes, cake
- Drinks: Tea, coffee, hot chocolate
Sample 3-Day Menu
Dietary Accommodations
Vegetarian
Every meal has a full vegetarian option. Our cooks prepare creative dishes that are satisfying and nutritious.
Vegan
Vegan meals available on request. We substitute dairy and eggs with plant-based alternatives.
Gluten-Free
Rice, potatoes, and naturally gluten-free staples form the base of many meals.
Halal
Halal meat available on request for Muslim climbers.
Allergies
Let us know about any food allergies and we will exclude those ingredients.
Special Requests
Any other dietary needs? Tell us when booking and we will accommodate.
Hydration: The Most Important Nutrient
Proper hydration is critical on Kilimanjaro. At altitude, your body loses water faster through respiration and sweat. You should drink at least 3–4 litres of water per day.
Our team provides boiled and purified water at every meal. We also supply water purification tablets. Many climbers carry a hydration bladder for easy sipping. Electrolyte tablets are a good addition to replace lost salts.
The most common mistake climbers make with food and water is not eating and drinking enough. At altitude, appetite decreases but caloric needs increase. Force yourself to eat at every meal and drink constantly.
Altitude and Appetite
As you climb higher, appetite naturally decreases — your body diverts blood flow away from the digestive system. Many climbers find they have little appetite above 4,000 metres, especially on summit night.
This is why our cooks prepare calorie-dense, easy-to-eat foods at higher camps: soups, porridge, rice dishes, and bananas. The pre-summit dinner at Barafu Camp is deliberately carbohydrate-rich to fuel the midnight summit push.
Tips from Our Mountain Chefs
Eat Before You Are Hungry
At altitude, hunger signals are unreliable. Eat at every scheduled meal whether you feel like it or not.
Start With Soup
Hot soup stimulates appetite and warms you from the inside. The best way to start any meal at altitude.
Carry Snacks
Keep energy bars, nuts, or chocolate in your daypack for quick energy during the hike.
Drink Hot Liquids
Tea and hot chocolate help maintain fluid intake when plain water feels unappealing.
Questions About Food or Dietary Needs?
We are happy to accommodate any requirements. Contact us to discuss your needs before your climb.
