Best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Decoding the Seasons

The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro depends on various factors, including weather and personal preferences. Kilimanjaro experiences two main seasons: dry and rainy. Climbing during the dry season is generally recommended to avoid mud, rain, and cold at higher elevations. However, other factors like temperature, views, and crowd levels also influence the decision. There's no one-size-fits-all answer to the best time to climb Kilimanjaro.

Months of April and June

The rainy season runs from the end of March until the middle of June. It is impossible to forecast when it will rain and when it will cease, just as it is impossible to predict when it will rain someplace else on the world. It’s the hottest time of year in Tanzania, yet the months of April and May are so wet that many operators don’t even offer treks during that period.

Months of June and August

The rain stops and the temperatures on Kilimanjaro begin to drop. The weather on Kilimanjaro is dry and clear throughout the day, but it will be bitterly chilly at night. The month of June is peaceful, but as the year continues, the number of climbers grows.

Months of August and October

The peak climbing season on Kilimanjaro occurs in August and September. The weather is pleasant, with many clear days and temperatures higher than in June and July. However, clouds may blanket the forest/moorland zone, and rain may fall on the southern routes on the first several days. However, once you leave the rain forest, everything is OK! The pleasant weather lasts until around mid-October, when the preparations for the short showers begin.
best time to hike mt kilimanjaro and the best time to Climb mt kilimanjaro
The Tanzania Kililimanjaro Mountain

Months of October and November

Mount Kilimanjaro’s weather grows more insecure, and the number of climbers decreases. The wetter season begins with afternoon clouds and occasional thunderstorms, as it does in all tropical regions of the world. This should not pose any serious issues as long as you are prepared to withstand the occasional shower.

Months of November and December

The small rainy season begins in November and lasts until mid-December. The temperature has fallen, and the rain has arrived, bringing with it all of the dangers I mentioned at the beginning of the page. The time to climb Kilimanjaro is not ideal.
People in a Travel on the Mount Kilimanjaro trekking

Months of December and January 

December and January are the coldest months of the year. Kilimanjaro’s second peak climbing season lasts 4 to 6 weeks around Christmas and New Year. Despite the fact that there is still a probability of rain and thick clouds in the lower regions, traffic is particularly heavy. It’s not a moment I’d like.

Months of January and March

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro between mid-January and mid-March is also a wonderful time. The weather is pleasant, not too cold or damp, and there are fewer climbers than usual. The days are mostly dry and clear, with only a few clouds and a few brief showers.

Plan your Tanzania adventure with us

We will work with you to plan an unforgettable Tanzania safari

Newsletter

Subscription Form

Follow us

© Copyright 2024 Tanzania Classic Tours.
Need Help? Chat with us
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram