Food and water during mountain treks

 During a hike on Kilimanjaro hikers can sometimes burn 4,000 to 6,000 calories a day. In order to keep your body well fueled, you have to eat. You will be provided with breakfast, lunch and dinner each day spent on the mountain. The food will contain high energy carbohydrates that are easily digestible. The primary carbohydrates of the meals are rice, potatoes and pasta. You will also get fresh fruit and vegetables with every meal. Meat is served on the mountain but not in large quantities because it is not easily digestible at high altitude and nor does it keep well on the mountain. We resupply the team with fresh food throughout the climb.

We prepare all our food to strict hygiene standards, ensuring it’s delicious and safe to eat. If you have any dietary restrictions, our crew will be happy to take this into account when making the food schedule.

FOOD MENU PDF

Tips for eating on the mountain

Because of the higher altitudes, some people might experience appetite loss or nausea. However, it is very important to keep eating while you are continuing your trek to avoid a calorie deficit. A calorie deficit will make acclimatization, recovery and athletic performance more difficult. So try to follow the food schedule from our crew or discuss with them before you make alterations to the food schedule. Protein, fat and carbohydrates are all sources of calories and will help you during your trek.

We do recommend that you bring some of your favorite snacks, energy bars, and electrolytes to supplement your diet on the mountain. Snacks add some variety to the food you eat and are another source of calories.

Here are some best practices for eating and drinking on Kilimanjaro.

  • Wash your hands before every meal
  • Don’t skip meals. Eat even if you don’t have an appetite or when you are nauseous.
  • Eat a high carbohydrate diet (which we will provide)
  • Bring additional snacks and/or electrolytes
  • Drink at least four liters of water per day
  • Avoid excessive caffeine consumption
  • Avoid consuming alcohol, tobacco or depressant drugs including barbiturates,
  • tranquilizers, sleeping pills and opiates