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Camping and Mountaineering in East Africa

Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda have an extremely varied geography and climate, as well as being home to some of the world's most spectacular landscapes and rarest wild animals. These are some of the reasons that make the area so attractive to hikers and mountaineers.

Mountaineering highlights in Tanzania include Mount Kilimanjaro and its neighbour Mount Meru. One of Mount Kenya`s peaks is accessible to hikers. The scenic route up Point Lenana takes in forests containing elephants and other wild animals, moorlands, lakes and ice formations. There are many other hiking trails available, from short gentle hikes to difficult ones that may require acclimatization. It is recommended that you seek the services of a guide for the more difficult/longer trails and especially if mountaineering.

There are a number of organized backpacking tours available for all budgets. Most campsites offer full facilities and where possible you should use designated campsites. Be aware of local animal populations - your local tour guide will be able to provide more safety tips. You should also purchase all of your equipment before traveling, even though the equipment may cost less on arrival, it may not be to the same technical standard that you require.

You must be vaccinated against malaria and should also use appropriate insect repellents. There are various types of mosquito nets available for camping and both these and tent fabric can be pre-treated with insecticide. You should also check with your Doctor well in advance what other vaccinations are required.

Be careful of water sources, you should buy sealed bottles preferably, or obtain it from municipal taps on the campsites. Avoid getting your water from isolated areas and if necessary reduce further risks from contaminated water by boiling, using iodine tablets etc. Also remember to take additional care with food handling and brushing teeth. National Parks may limit the use of campfires, but most campsites offer barbeque facilities for water boiling and cooking

At higher altitudes, the weather is cooler and the lowlands are generally dry unless during the wet season. Clothing should be lightweight; ideally covering arms and legs to prevent insect bites. A fleece jacket or top will probably be required in the cooler evenings. Desert colours such as olive and khaki are preferable, as well as more being light reflective, they are better camouflage when animal or bird watching. Of course, if visiting near or within the wet seasons, then full, breathable waterproofs will be required. Footwear requirements are dependent upon your activities, but boots should be at least ankle height to protect against insects and scrub and also have a tough vibram sole, as some thorns easily pierce soles. For new or experienced hikers and mountaineers, North Face in the UK offers a wide variety of clothing and equipment that is suitable for hiking and mountaineering, not just in East Africa, but worldwide.