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.
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.
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.
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