Is There a Bathroom on Kilimanjaro?

ne of the most common (and perfectly reasonable) questions trekkers ask is:
“Are there bathrooms on Kilimanjaro?”
The short answer is yes, but not the kind you’re used to.

At Mandari Travel, we believe in preparing you for every aspect of the climb, from summit success to bathroom breaks. Here’s a practical look at what to expect and how to stay clean and comfortable during your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Public Toilets on Kilimanjaro: Basic but Functional

Each designated campsite on Kilimanjaro has permanent public toilet structures, maintained by Kilimanjaro National Park. These are non-flush, pit-style toilets made of concrete or wood. They’re functional, but cleanliness can vary depending on the number of trekkers using them.

Expect:

Squat toilets (no seats)
No running water
Basic ventilation
A strong recommendation to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer

For many climbers, public toilets are a backup, not the preferred option.

Private Portable Toilets: A Cleaner, More Comfortable Optio

Mandari Travel offers an optional portable toilet rental on all of our climbs. This is a small chemical toilet housed in a private tent and carried/maintained by a dedicated toilet porter.

Benefits include:

Much cleaner and more hygienic
No lines at busy campsites
Privacy and convenience, especially at night
Peace of mind on summit night or during emergencies

We highly recommend this option, especially for larger groups or those who value comfort and cleanliness.

Bathroom Breaks on the Trai

During the day’s hike, there are no designated bathrooms on the trail. If nature calls, you’ll need to find a private spot off the path. Your guide will advise on appropriate locations and how to minimize environmental impact.

Tips for Trail Toileting:

Bring a small trowel, toilet paper, and zip-lock bags for waste
Use biodegradable wipes and eco-friendly hand sanitizer
For women, pee funnels can offer added convenience
Always follow the Leave No Trace principles

Hygiene on the Mountain

There are no showers on Kilimanjaro, but Mandari Travel provides:

Daily warm water for sponge bathing
Soap and water before meals
Hand sanitizer at every meal stop and tent entrance

Staying clean helps you stay healthy and feel more comfortable throughout the trek.

Plan a Comfortable, Worry-Free Kilimanjaro Experience

At Mandari Travel, we handle the details so you can focus on the climb, not the toilets. Whether you choose public facilities or a private toilet tent, we’re here to keep you safe, clean, and prepared every step of the way.

Email: info@mandaritravel.com
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811

Request a Quote & Add Portable Toilet Option

Fill out the form below to get a custom Kilimanjaro quote and let us know if you’d like to include a private toilet tent for your trek.