Ever wondered what happens when nature calls on Mount Kilimanjaro? You’re not alone! One of the most common (and under-discussed) questions among trekkers is: “Where do you go to the bathroom on Kilimanjaro?” While the idea of handling bathroom breaks at 19,341 feet might sound intimidating, rest assured—there are toilets on Kilimanjaro, and knowing what to expect can make all the difference.
Standard Toilets on Kilimanjaro Camps
Each campsite on Kilimanjaro is equipped with basic public toilets, also known as long-drop toilets.
What Are Long-Drop Toilets?
✔ Simple pit latrines made from wood and concrete.
✔ No flushing system—waste drops into a deep hole.
✔ Minimal privacy & ventilation, but they do the job.
✔ Located at official campsites along the trekking routes.
Always bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as these aren’t provided.
What’s the Condition of Public Toilets?
While they are regularly maintained, high-traffic camps can have less-than-pleasant conditions. Some trekkers find the smell and cleanliness challenging, especially at higher altitudes where waste disposal becomes difficult.
Private Toilets (Included with GO2KILI)
For those looking for more comfort and hygiene, GO2KILI offers private portable toilet rentals.
What Is a Private Toilet Tent?
✔ A small, enclosed tent with a portable flush toilet.
✔ Set up and maintained daily by your trekking team.
✔ Offers a clean, odor-free experience compared to public toilets.
Hygiene & Waste Management on Kilimanjaro
Keeping clean on the mountain requires some planning. Since there are no showers, maintaining good hygiene is essential to staying healthy during your trek.
Public toilets on Kilimanjaro don’t come stocked with toiletries, so bringing your own hygiene essentials is a must.
Essentials for Using Kilimanjaro Toilets:
✔ Toilet Paper – Public toilets do not provide toilet paper, so pack your own.
✔ Wet Wipes – Useful for quick cleaning when no water is available.
✔ Hand Sanitizer – Helps prevent bacteria and viruses from spreading in camp.
✔ Biodegradable Soap – A more eco-friendly way to wash hands before meals.
✔ Ziplock Bags or Waste Bags – Necessary for packing out used toilet paper or feminine hygiene products when off-trail.
Kilimanjaro Waste Management Policies
✔ Porters manage waste disposal at campsites.
✔ Trekkers are encouraged to follow “Leave No Trace” principles.
✔ Eco-friendly toilets are being introduced at select campsites to reduce waste impact.
💡 Store these items in an easy-to-access pouch in your daypack so they’re always on hand.
What Happens If Nature Calls Mid-Hike?
Kilimanjaro is a multi-day trek, and you won’t always be near a toilet. If you need to go while on the trail, here are your options:
✔️ Trek Between Campsites: If possible, wait until the next official campsite toilet.
✔️ Go Off-Trail: If you must go, step well away from the trail (at least 50 meters from water sources and campsites).
✔️ Use a Waste Bag (for Solid Waste): Some trekkers bring portable waste disposal bags to pack out waste, keeping the mountain clean.
If going off-trail, follow Leave No Trace principles; bury waste when possible and always pack out toilet paper.
How to Stay Clean & Maintain Hygiene on Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro’s cold temperatures and lack of running water make hygiene management tricky, but staying clean prevents illness and keeps you feeling fresh.
Why Sanitizing Wipes & Biodegradable Soap Are Must-Haves
✔ Handwashing is limited on Kilimanjaro, so hand sanitizer & wet wipes are essential.
✔ Use biodegradable soap when washing near streams or designated water areas.
✔ Wipe down hands and face before meals to reduce bacteria transfer.
Are Eco-Friendly Toilets Available on Kilimanjaro?
With thousands of climbers trekking Kilimanjaro each year, responsible waste management is critical for environmental conservation.
Eco-Toilet Initiatives on Kilimanjaro
✔ Some campsites have eco-friendly toilet alternatives that minimize human impact.
✔ Private trekking companies, like GO2KILI, offer cleaner, more sustainable toilet options.
✔ Eco-toilets use sawdust or other natural materials to break down waste without harsh chemicals.
Final Thoughts: Staying Fresh & Focused on Your Trek
Bathroom breaks aren’t the highlight of a Kilimanjaro trek, but knowing what to expect (and how to prepare) makes the experience much easier. Whether you’re using the basic long-drop latrines at campsites or opting for a private toilet tent, keeping your expectations realistic and your hygiene standards high will help you focus on the adventure, not the inconvenience.
