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Month-by-Month Guide
Choosing the right time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro can greatly affect your experience and chance of reaching the summit. Although it is possible to climb the mountain all year round, weather conditions change throughout the year. Rain, clouds, and cold temperatures can make the trek more difficult and less enjoyable. That’s why understanding the best months and the climate patterns is important when planning your Kilimanjaro adventure.
The best times to climb Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons, when the weather is more stable and the trails are easier to hike. These months are:
January to early March
Late June to October
During these periods, the skies are usually clear, the trails are dry, and the views are spectacular. January to March is slightly colder, with a higher chance of snow at the summit, while June to October is warmer but can be busier with climbers. If you want fewer crowds, climbing in early March or late June is a great choice.
The long rains fall from mid-March to May, and the short rains fall in November. These months are considered the least favorable for climbing because the trails can be muddy and slippery, and the risk of clouds and rain is higher. Visibility is also lower, which can reduce your enjoyment of the mountain’s views. While some experienced trekkers still attempt the climb during rainy seasons for solitude, most climbers prefer to avoid these periods.
Kilimanjaro has five ecological zones, and each has different weather conditions:
Cultivation Zone (800–1,800m): Warm and humid
Rainforest Zone (1,800–2,800m): Wet and misty, especially in rainy seasons
Moorland Zone (2,800–4,000m): Cooler, with occasional rain
Alpine Desert Zone (4,000–5,000m): Dry, windy, and cold
Arctic Summit Zone (5,000–5,895m): Freezing temperatures and snow likely any time
Understanding these zones helps you prepare clothing and gear based on when you go.
High season, especially July to September and December holidays, attracts the most climbers. Popular routes like Machame and Marangu can get crowded during these months. If you prefer quieter paths, consider Lemosho or Northern Circuit, which are longer and less traveled. The dry season offers a more comfortable climb but comes with more people on the trail. The shoulder seasons early March and late October provide a balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
Regardless of the month, summit night is always very cold — expect temperatures as low as -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) near Uhuru Peak. Dress in proper layers and gear!
If you want to do a wildlife safari after your climb, the July–October window is perfect because it matches the Great Migration season in Serengeti.
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