Discover the Best
Time to Climb.
Your success on Mount Kilimanjaro heavily depends on the weather. Learn about the dry seasons, temperature variations, and the magic of full moon summits to choose your perfect trekking window.
Read the GuideJanuary to Mid-March
This is generally considered the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro if you prefer slightly warmer temperatures. The skies are typically crystal clear in the mornings and evenings, offering phenomenal views of the surrounding plains and starry nights. Since it's right after the short rainy season, the lower slopes are beautifully green and lush.
While the likelihood of precipitation is low, you might encounter sporadic, short showers in the rainforest zone. The summit nights are cold, but not as frigid as the peak of the July/August season.
Pros
- Relatively warmer temperatures.
- Clearer skies, especially in the mornings.
- Lush, green scenery on the lower slopes.
- Slightly fewer crowds than the main July-August season.
Cons
- Higher chance of rain compared to August.
- Slightly more humid in the rainforest zones.
June to October
These months coincide with the Northern Hemisphere's summer holidays and constitute the primary climbing season on Kilimanjaro. The weather is exceedingly dry and predictable, making for excellent trekking conditions. The probability of encountering rain is at its lowest, meaning trails stay solid and dry.
However, this stability comes with a drop in temperature. June, July, and August are the coldest months on the mountain. Expect freezing temperatures at high camps and intense cold during the summit attempt.
Pros
- Superb, predictable dry weather.
- Excellent visibility and photography conditions.
- Less muddy trails in the lower forests.
Cons
- This is the busiest time on the mountain.
- Very cold temperatures, especially at night and on summit day.
April-May & November-December
Tanzania experiences two distinct wet seasons: the 'long rains' in April and May, and the 'short rains' in November and December. Trekking during these periods is significantly more challenging. Trails through the rainforest become extremely muddy and slippery, and cloud cover often obscures the views.
If you must climb during the rainy season, the Rongai Route is highly recommended, as it approaches the mountain from the drier northern side, receiving significantly less precipitation than the southern and western approaches.
Pros
- The mountain is quiet and virtually empty.
- Heavy snow at the summit creates stunning, pristine landscapes.
Cons
- High likelihood of heavy rain and thick cloud cover.
- Muddy, slippery, and physically demanding trail conditions.
- Lower overall summit success rates.
Full Moon Summits
Many climbers plan their trek to coincide with a full moon. A full moon illuminates your midnight summit attempt so brightly that headlamps are often unnecessary. The moonlight reflecting off the glaciers is an incredibly surreal and spiritual experience. Because these dates are highly popular, you must book your climb well in advance if you want to experience a full moon summit.