When it comes to using toilets, we're accustomed to comfortable and private options. However, the situation changes when you're trekking Mount Kilimanjaro. In this article, we'll discuss the toilet options available on the mountain, from basic campsite facilities to private portable options.
I Need To Go To The Toilet On Kilimanjaro. What Are My Options?
Firstly, let’s put your mind at rest. There are public toilets at every camp stop on a Kilimanjaro trek. You’re going to need to lower your expectations though. Forget porcelain loos with lockable doors and sinks with soap dispensers. We’re talking about a wooden shack (usually without a door, let alone a lock) that surrounds a deep hole in the ground.
You’ll have to get used to squatting and near-zero privacy. Even though the Kilimanjaro National Park staff work diligently to maintain these facilities, it's a challenging task due to the sheer number of mountain-goers utilizing them. As a result, the odor from Kilimanjaro's communal 'long drop' toilets can be quite potent, which might be downright uncomfortable and filthy.
Can I Get A Private Toilet On Kilimanjaro?
Yes, we do provide "portable private toilets." This is a fully equipped chemical toilet, complete with a seat, all within its own discrete tent to ensure total privacy (though not necessarily soundproofing). This portable private restroom is exclusively reserved for you and your group's use. Similar to the wooden shacks, this facility is set up and accessible only at the campsite.
The trek's porters are tasked with the responsibility of cleaning, maintaining, and transporting the portable toilet between camps. This arrangement assures you that your restroom breaks will be hygienic and conducted in a private manner.
I’m Between Camps On Kilimanjaro And I Need To Go To The Loo! What Now?
If you only need to urinate, a practical solution is to swallow your pride and find a private spot behind a nearby tree or bush for a short time. To avoid any awkwardness, it's a good idea to inform your guide. As you ascend beyond the tree line, finding suitable cover becomes more challenging. You might be fortunate enough to find a larger shrub for privacy, and if not, suitable boulders or rock formations are often nearby.
The most effective solution, however, is to carry a suitable container with you that can be emptied at the next campsite. There are specialized products available for this purpose, such as Shewee for women and Peebol for everyone, which can be found on Amazon. There are also "personal toilet" kits designed for events like festivals that work well for Kilimanjaro treks. Having a bottle or container on hand can prove incredibly useful both during the day's hike and during nighttime when you're reluctant to leave your campsite.
Now, what if you need to defecate while on the trail? Here's what you should do: You'll need to find a secluded area to relieve yourself, as mentioned earlier. Leaving waste behind is both unnecessary and unacceptable. It's a good idea to carry disposable plastic bags in your day pack for collecting waste. Additionally, make sure you have at least one roll of toilet paper (two would be even better) and hygienic wet wipes for cleanup.
Remember this: Leave nothing behind, especially not non-biodegradable wet wipes. Proper disposal is crucial. You definitely don't want to be known as someone who litters on Kilimanjaro. You're better than that. In summary, do what you need to do, clean up and tidy yourself, place everything in a plastic bag (consider using double bags for extra security), tie it securely, and take it with you to the next campsite. The porters will handle it from there. It wasn't that difficult, was it?
How Does A Long Drop Toilet Work?
A long drop toilet, also known as a pit latrine, collects human faeces in a hole in the ground where the toilet is located and can work with or without flowing water. Long drop toilets work to decrease the amount of spread of disease and the transfer of pathogens from flies.
How Do You Make A Toilet Drop Longer?
The longest that you can make your long drop toilet as far as the ground level goes is 1 meter deep, and you will have to dig a new one once you fill your current one up to 330mm. You will also have to cover the long drop completely with soil after it is filled.
