Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro
Best time to climb Kilimanjaro
The Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro is during the driest and warmest times of the year, which fall between December to mid-March and mid-June to the end of October. However, keep in mind that these periods are also the busiest for Kilimanjaro climbers.
In this guide, we’ll provide a breakdown of Kilimanjaro’s climbing season, alternative off-peak times to consider, and periods to avoid. We’ll also discuss other key factors to keep in mind as you plan your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure.
The Best Month by month to climb Kilimanajaro
January and February are considered the best months for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, as they offer the warmest and most favorable conditions for trekking. These months typically bring clear skies in the mornings and evenings, making for stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. However, as the day progresses, clouds may roll in, and there is a chance of experiencing some rain. Due to these optimal conditions, January and February are also the busiest months for climbing, so it’s important to plan ahead and book early if you want to secure a spot on the mountain.
The long rainy season, spanning from March to early June, is generally considered the worst time to climb Kilimanjaro. During this period, the trails can be extremely slippery and muddy, and the summit is often shrouded in thick clouds, reducing visibility and making trekking conditions more challenging.
However, for those who are up for the added challenge, climbing Kilimanjaro during the rainy season can also be an unforgettable experience. Although the trails may be less crowded, the rain and snow can make the trekking more difficult and slow going, with longer hiking times and more time spent at camp. The payoff, though, can be well worth it, as the mountain is transformed into a winter wonderland, with beautiful snowy landscapes and stunning photo opportunities.
Ultimately, the best time to climb Kilimanjaro will depend on your preferences and priorities. Whether you’re looking for optimal weather conditions or a unique and challenging adventure, there is a season and route that will suit you best.
In June, the rains start to subside, marking the beginning of the dry season. Although it is generally a drier month than the preceding months, it can still be quite chilly and cloudy on the mountain, which may limit the visibility of the scenic landscapes. Nonetheless, it is still a good time to climb Kilimanjaro as the trails are less muddy and there are fewer climbers on the mountain, making for a quieter and more peaceful experience. It is important to pack warm clothing and prepare for lower temperatures, particularly at night.
From July to October, the weather conditions for climbing Kilimanjaro are generally colder but drier than in the previous months. While there is still a chance of rain, especially in the rainforest and moorlands, precipitation is typically infrequent and low.
Staying dry during your climb will make for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience overall. The clear and sunny skies during these months provide spectacular views. However, the downside is that these months are also the busiest on the trails.
Some climbers welcome the opportunity to socialize with other groups at the campsites and enjoy the team spirit essential for pushing oneself to the summit.
The short rainy season in Tanzania typically starts in November and ends in early December. During this time, you can expect to see afternoon rain, with clear skies in the mornings and evenings. However, this month is not the most favorable for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro due to the wet, muddy and slippery trails. Climbing during this season can be challenging and may not provide the best experience. It’s worth noting that despite the conditions, there are still some groups who opt to trek during this time, as there are fewer crowds and a unique experience with the misty and atmospheric scenery.
The short rainy season, which starts in November and continues until early December, is not considered an ideal time to climb Kilimanjaro due to wet and muddy conditions. While some people may still choose to climb during this time, it is not typically a popular time for trekking.
Best time to Climb Kilimanjaro During Full Moon
Ascending Mount Kilimanjaro during a full moon offers an unparalleled experience, as the summit and its breathtaking glaciers are illuminated by the bright moonlight, creating stunning views. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, trekking during this time also provides greater visibility throughout the climb, particularly during the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.
While it’s not necessary to summit on the exact date of the full moon to enjoy the benefits of the moonlight, many climbers plan their trek to coincide with this monthly celestial event. To do so, a seven-day climb should begin five days before the full moon date, while an eight-day climb should start six days prior. These full moon summit dates are highly popular and tend to book up quickly, so it’s advisable to book well in advance.
However, if you prefer a less crowded experience and the opportunity to enjoy a star-filled sky, it may be best to avoid the full moon period altogether. By departing on an “off” day, such as Tuesday or Wednesday, you can also avoid the peak weekend traffic on the mountain. Ultimately, whether or not you choose to summit during a full moon, the majestic beauty of Kilimanjaro is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Important Considerations for Climbing Kilimanjaro
It’s important to keep in mind that the time of year and weather are not the only factors that will affect your Kilimanjaro climb. There are several other variables that you should consider when planning your ascent of Africa’s highest peak. Here are some additional factors that you may want to explore before you decide on the best time to climb Kilimanjaro:
Choosing the Best Kilimanjaro Route
When considering climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s important to choose the best route for your skill level and preferences. The three most popular routes are the Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai routes, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
The Machame Route is a popular choice as it offers a shorter trekking duration, but it’s also more challenging than the other routes. This route features stunning scenery on the ascent to Uhuru Peak. If you’re interested in this route, you can read our full Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Trek itinerary for more information.
The Lemosho Route is longer and more gradual, making it a great choice for those with limited trekking experience. This route is also less popular, but equally beautiful. We highly recommend it for those taking on the Kilimanjaro challenge. You can find out more about this route in our full Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek itinerary.
The remote Rongai Route approaches the summit from the north, on Kenya’s side of Kilimanjaro. This route is less popular, but it offers options of faster or gradual ascents. Additionally, you may be treated to sightings of big game, such as antelope, elephant, and buffalo. If you’re interested in this route, please contact us directly to inquire about it.
Weather Conditions
Kilimanjaro is situated near the equator and experiences two main seasons: dry and rainy. Climbing during the dry months, which are January through early-March and June through October, is recommended. These months offer clear skies, great views, and comfortable hiking conditions.
Temperature
The temperatures on the mountain vary based on the seasons and different climate zones. The summit zone is considered “Arctic,” and temperatures drop well below freezing throughout the year. The coldest months are usually December to March and June, just after the rains, with a good chance of snow on the summit. This reduces the number of visitors, making it less crowded than July through August, which is the busiest time.
Rain Rainy season
Kilimanjaro experiences two distinct wet seasons: long rains from the end of March through May, and short rains in November. April and November typically have the highest rainfall, but this can vary. Climbing during the rainy season can be challenging, as conditions can be wet, stormy, and muddy, particularly on the southern face of the mountain.
It’s essential to consider the weather and temperature conditions when planning to climb Kilimanjaro to ensure a safe and comfortable climb.
Consider the Crowds: Number of climbers on Kilimanjaro
As Kilimanjaro continues to gain popularity, the number of climbers on the mountain increases, especially during the favorable weather of January to early March and June to October. The Marangu and Machame routes are the busiest, while the Northern Circuits, Rongai, or Lemosho offer a less crowded experience with stunning views.
Toilets at campsites can get overcrowded during busy times, but our climbers can use private toilet tents, used exclusively by our group. Despite the crowds, climbers often form lifelong friendships with other climbers they meet on the mountain.
If you prefer to avoid crowds, the shoulder seasons just before and after the rains are the quietest times of year, but you should be prepared for the possibility of rain. Climbing during the height of the rainy season (April/May and November) is not recommended, but you could opt for the routes on the northern side of the mountain, which receive less rainfall and are more sheltered.
Kilimanjaro Safety & Trail Conditions
Safety is our top priority when it comes to climbing Kilimanjaro. As a hiker, you may be accustomed to challenging trails and slippery conditions, but for inexperienced climbers, we recommend avoiding the rainy season to minimize discomfort and ensure a safe ascent.
The lower slopes, especially through the forested areas, can become muddy and slippery, while the higher altitudes present rocky and sometimes treacherous terrain. Our experienced guides are familiar with all weather conditions on Kilimanjaro and remain flexible to adjust the itinerary when necessary for your safety and comfort.
Ascending Kilimanjaro means dealing with altitude effects, and getting wet increases the risk of hypothermia. That’s why we emphasize the importance of keeping your gear dry and avoiding getting soaked, especially during rainy periods. We recommend using high-quality, waterproof gear, particularly on less challenging itineraries. Be sure to store your gear in waterproof bags, avoiding plastic bags, which are banned by the Tanzanian government.
Note: the Tanzanian government has banned the use of all plastic bags, so please don’t use garbage bags or ziploc bags to store any of your gear.
