Best time to climb Kilimanjaro

The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, which runs from July to October. During this period, the weather is more stable, offering clearer skies and minimizing the chances of cloud cover blocking the views. However, Kilimanjaro’s weather is unpredictable, and it’s common to experience all four seasons in a single day. Temperatures drop significantly in the mornings and evenings, often leading to frost, so packing warm clothing is crucial.

Tanzania has two rainy seasons: the long rains from late March to mid-May, and the short rains, which typically fall between November and December, although they can be less predictable. July to October marks the peak climbing season, meaning it can be quite crowded. If you’re looking for a less busy time, consider the shoulder seasons, which are late May through June and December to mid-March. These periods still offer good weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for a more peaceful trek, especially if you’re also planning to combine your climb with a safari. It’s important to keep in mind that trekking during April, May, and November may not be possible due to unsafe weather conditions caused by heavy rain.

CLIMBING DURING THE HIGH SEASON

The greatest advantage of climbing at this time is that you can stay dry the entire time. Sure, you can always get rained on throughout the year, especially in the rainforest and moorlands, but typically the precipitation is low and infrequent. By staying dry, you stay comfortable, and the overall trek will be more enjoyable. Removing the stress of being wet and cold also increases your chance of proper acclimatization. In the dry season, the views are better, with clear and sunny skies. The disadvantage is that the trails have many climbers, which can take away from the feeling of being on a big, remote mountain. However, some visitors look forward to socializing with other groups at camp. Not surprisingly, most people choose to climb during the dry season because the likelihood of nice weather trumps any misgivings they may have about encountering others on the mountain.

CLIMBING DURING THE LOW SEASON

The prospect of having the mountain to yourself is what draws people to climb during the low season. The mountain is very empty, and it is possible to be the only party at a campsite. This quiet and solitude is what many people seek when going outdoors. Secondly, although it does rain quite a lot during the low season, most of the time the rains arrive in the afternoon. With Kilimanjaro’s trekking schedule, most of the hiking can be done in the mornings, which means that the time spent on trails while it rains can be minimized. One thing people forget is that precipitation creates snow, which is not a bad thing. Kilimanjaro is best displayed during the rainy season. The most beautiful sights of the mountain often are enjoyed in the mornings after it snows. No matter when you climb, you have the chance to see the night sky over the Rift Valley.