Preparing for a Kilimanjaro climb requires careful planning, especially regarding snacks. While your trekking team will provide hearty meals, having your own snacks can make a huge difference in keeping your energy up and maintaining morale. Here’s a guide to choosing the best snacks for climbing Kilimanjaro, inspired by the insights shared in the video below.
Why Bring Snacks?
Climbing Kilimanjaro is physically demanding, and your body will need consistent energy to keep going. Altitude can suppress your appetite, so it’s important to bring snacks you love and will eat, even if you don’t feel hungry. These snacks serve as quick sources of energy during breaks, providing an extra boost when meals seem too far away.
Top Snack Recommendations
Energy Bars: Choose bars that are high in calories and easy to carry, such as Clif Bars, KIND Bars, or RXBARs. They’re compact, lightweight, and packed with nutrients to keep you fueled.
Dried Fruits and Nuts: Trail mix is a classic trekking snack for a reason—it’s lightweight, high in calories, and provides a great mix of carbs, fats, and protein. Dried fruits like mango, apricots, and raisins offer a quick sugar boost, while nuts provide long-lasting energy.
Jerky or Meat Snacks: Beef or turkey jerky is a fantastic option for salty cravings and adds protein to your diet. It’s lightweight, satisfying, and helps replenish sodium lost through sweat.
Chocolate and Candy: Treats like Snickers, M&M’s, or gummy candies can be a great morale booster. The sugar gives an instant energy kick, especially during challenging sections like summit night.
Electrolyte Tablets and Drinks: Staying hydrated is crucial on Kilimanjaro. Bring electrolyte powders, tablets, or hydration mixes (like Nuun or Liquid I.V.) to add to your water. These not only enhance hydration but also replenish essential minerals.
Energy Gels or Chews: These are particularly useful for summit night when eating solid food can feel like a chore. Energy gels like GU or Clif Bloks are easy to consume and provide a quick boost of carbohydrates.
Tips for Packing Snacks
Go for Lightweight and Calorie-Dense Options: Space and weight are limited, so pack snacks that provide maximum energy without taking up too much room in your bag.
Choose Resealable Packaging: Snacks in resealable bags or containers help keep them fresh and prevent spills.
Avoid Melty or Fragile Items: Leave chocolate that melts easily or foods that crumble too much at home. Kilimanjaro’s climate can vary from hot to freezing, so think about how your snacks will hold up.
Bring a Mix of Flavors: You’ll appreciate variety when your appetite changes due to the altitude. Pack a balance of salty, sweet, and savory options to keep your taste buds happy.
How Many Snacks Should You Bring?
Plan for about 1-2 snacks per day, depending on the length of your climb. While you don’t want to overpack, having enough snacks to keep you energized is crucial. Think of snacks as supplements to the meals provided by your trekking company.