Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park – Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro


Kilimanjaro, being situated close to the equator, does not experience the four distinct seasons found in more temperate regions. Instead, it has rainy and dry seasons, both of which have a significant impact on the mountain’s landscape.

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is from January to early March and from June to October. During these months, the weather is typically dry, with clear skies and sunshine, providing excellent opportunities for stunning photos and comfortable hiking conditions. These are also the busiest months of the year for climbing Kilimanjaro. More information on Kilimanjaro weather can be found in our guide.

Temperature-wise, the mountain’s climate varies with the seasons and altitude. The summit zone is considered “Arctic,” with sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. December to March and June, just after the rains, are usually the coldest months, with a possibility of snow on the summit. This period sees fewer visitors compared to the busiest months of July and August.

The Kilimanjaro region experiences two distinct wet seasons: the long rains from the end of March through May and the short rains in November. April and November typically have the highest rainfall, although this can vary. The rainy season begins around mid-March and lasts until May, with conditions becoming wet, stormy, and muddy, particularly along the mountain’s southern face.

Even during the dry season, it is always possible to encounter some rain. Therefore, it’s recommended to carry good quality wet-weather gear in your day packq when climbing Kilimanjaro.

DECEMBER
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
These months are high season and dray , many clients likes to come for Christmas and new year celebration .The weather is so cool not hot not cold Is good time to visit Tanzania for life time memory.
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
The weather is particularly good for climbing: The days are clear and open you will enjoy panoramic views, no mist covers the Mountain and somewhat warmer than in another months. At the same time, it may be cloudy in the rain forest, as well as it may be small showers on the southern routes (Machame and Umbwe). However, after you leave the rain forest behind, it will be sunny.This is the best time of the year to visit Tanzania for unforgettable memory of life time
MARCH
JUNE
These two months are transition months from 20th march the small rain start, note April and May heavy rain, June rain descries, from the middle of June mountain is dry until the end of October .
These two months are better to visit since no crowd of tourist.
APRIL
MAY
NOVEMBER
The heavy / big rainy season starts at the end of March and continues until the end of May. April the beginning of the coldest(winter) time of the year in Tanzania. These months have significantly less climbers than the rest of the year, but there is a high chance of hiking in the rain at this time of the year.
In addition November is the moderate rain season The temperatures will have dropped/decrees and mist covers the Mountain, making challenge and risky for climbers.So April, May and November might not be the best months in terms of weather, but gives a great opportunity for all our clients like challenge. You are most welcome .we are ready to send you to the roof of Africa.
These month we recommend to take Rongai route because there is not big rain due to the shortage of trees and small gentle.

More information about Mount Kilimanjaro

Mountain Sickness

Mountain Crew

Quick facts about Kilimanjaro

Preparation and training before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro climbing equipment and packing list

Getting to Tanzania

Mt. Kilimanjaro Climbing Safety

How much does it cost to climb Mount Kili?

Kilimanjaro Wildlife

Kilimanjaro Climb Itineraries

7 Days Machame Route

7 Days Lemosho Route

6 Days Marangu Route

6 Days Rongai Route

7 Days Shira Route

8 Days Northern Circuit Route

6 Days Kilimanjaro Mountain Biking

5 Days Kilimanjaro Mountain Biking

Tanzania Safari Itineraries

4 Days Zebra Adventure

7 Days, 6 Nights Tembo Safari

12 Days, 11 Nights Pumba Safari

6 Days, 5 Nights Royal Tour Adventure

4 Days, 3 Nights Test Tanzania Safari

7 Days, 6 Nights Unforgettable Tanzania Safari