Meals on the Mountain
Nutritious, energy-rich meals designed to fuel your body for the challenge of climbing Kilimanjaro.
Nutrition on Kilimanjaro
Proper nutrition is essential for a successful Kilimanjaro climb. At altitude, your body works harder and burns more calories. Our meals are carefully planned to provide the energy, nutrients, and hydration you need while being appetizing and easy to digest at high altitude.
Our Approach
We provide three substantial meals per day plus snacks. Our experienced cooks prepare fresh, nutritious meals using quality ingredients. We accommodate dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary needs.
Daily Meal Schedule
Breakfast (6:00-7:00 AM)
Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel your morning hike.
- •Hot beverages: Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or Milo
- •Porridge: Oatmeal or maize porridge with sugar and milk
- •Eggs: Scrambled, fried, or boiled
- •Bread: Toast, pancakes, or chapati
- •Fruit: Fresh fruit when available
Lunch (12:00-1:00 PM)
A packed lunch to enjoy during your hike or at a scenic spot.
- •Sandwiches: With various fillings (cheese, egg, vegetables)
- •Fruit: Fresh fruit (bananas, oranges, apples)
- •Snacks: Nuts, biscuits, energy bars
- •Juice: Packaged fruit juice
- •Hot soup: Sometimes included for warmth
Dinner (6:00-7:00 PM)
A hot, substantial dinner to replenish energy after a day of hiking.
- •Soup: Hot soup to start (vegetable, chicken, or lentil)
- •Main course: Rice, pasta, or potatoes with protein and vegetables
- •Protein: Chicken, beef, fish, or vegetarian alternatives
- •Vegetables: Fresh or cooked vegetables
- •Dessert: Fresh fruit, cake, or pudding
- •Hot beverages: Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
Snacks & Hydration
Available throughout the day to maintain energy levels.
- •Energy bars and granola bars
- •Nuts and dried fruits
- •Biscuits and cookies
- •Purified water (3-4 liters per day)
- •Electrolyte supplements (available)
Sample Menu
Day 1-2 (Lower Altitude)
Breakfast
Porridge, eggs, toast, fruit, coffee/tea
Lunch
Sandwiches, fruit, nuts, juice
Dinner
Soup, rice with chicken & vegetables, fruit
Day 3-5 (Mid Altitude)
Breakfast
Porridge, pancakes, eggs, hot drinks
Lunch
Packed lunch with sandwiches, energy bars
Dinner
Soup, pasta with sauce, vegetables, dessert
Summit Day
Pre-Summit (Midnight)
Light breakfast: tea/coffee, biscuits, energy bars
Post-Summit
Celebration meal: hot meal, soup, beverages
Dietary Requirements
We accommodate various dietary requirements. Please inform us when booking so we can prepare accordingly.
Vegetarian
- All meals prepared without meat
- Protein from eggs, beans, lentils, cheese
- Variety of vegetables and grains
Vegan
- No animal products
- Plant-based proteins
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
Gluten-Free
- Gluten-free alternatives provided
- Rice, potatoes, gluten-free bread
Other Requirements
- Halal, kosher, or other religious requirements
- Food allergies (please specify)
- Medical dietary restrictions
Nutrition Tips for Altitude
Eat Regularly
Even if you don't feel hungry at altitude, try to eat. Your body needs calories to function and acclimatize.
Stay Hydrated
Drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Dehydration can worsen altitude sickness and reduce appetite.
Carbohydrates are Key
Carbs provide quick energy and are easier to digest at altitude than fats and proteins.
Snack Between Meals
Keep energy levels stable by snacking on energy bars, nuts, or dried fruit throughout the day.
Questions About Meals?
Contact us to discuss your dietary requirements or ask questions about our meal service.