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The Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

When is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? The temperature, the scenery, the number of climbers pouring up the mountain, the degree of difficulty, and safety are all important considerations when deciding when to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

 The weather is the primary factor affecting everything else on the mountain. Mount Kilimanjaro has just wet and dry seasons because it is located in an equatorial climate zone, as opposed to the typical summer, winter, spring, and fall. November and April–May are the wet seasons. As in other tropical nations, it is almost impossible to forecast when the rain will stop. The “dry season” lasts the remaining months, during which the majority of the days are bright, but there is never 100% assurance of a clear sky.

The months of July–August–September and January–February are the two main climbing seasons. At that time, many travelers enjoy their summer or Christmas vacations, and the weather is ideal for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Most climbers are scared off during rainy seasons. There is a very high chance of trekking in the drizzle in April, May, and November. Rain turns the rocks slick and softens the earth, making your ascent a riskier and slower journey. But in Tanzania, the rainy season is especially alluring to landscape photographers. More precipitation results in more snow on the summit, allowing photographers to capture Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped summit. Additionally, it’s the only time you can escape the “rush hours” on the routes and take in some solitude while strolling on pristine, snow-covered trails.

Mount Kilimanjaro seasonality: when is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Dry Season:

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. The days are pleasant, and there is very little chance of rain or snow while you are climbing. Since the second dry season lasts from June to October, it is very popular and lasts for a considerable amount of time on almost all routes. March is one of the greatest months because that’s when the rains really begin, but there’s a strong possibility that it may stay dry for a few days.

Rainy Season:

Climbing in the rainy season is difficult but also rather lovely. Although it is not particularly advised, you can climb if you’re up for a challenge, and there are vacant paths. However, your odds of reaching the peak are reduced because of the challenging weather and how tiring it may be to trek over the snow. Selecting the optimal route with additional days will help you acclimate properly and reach the summit at the appropriate time.

When is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? A month-by-month guide

January-March

To climb Kilimanjaro, January through March is a wonderful time. There isn’t much rain, and the weather is generally stable. On the other hand, this time of year is cooler. At or around the top, snowfall is highly probable.

April–May

The months with rainy seasons are April and May. Going on a Kilimanjaro hike now would be a mistake. In the lowest portions of the mountain, heavy downpours are frequent. During this time, cloud cover an’d low vision are also important factors.

June–October

Because it falls during the summer vacation season in both North America and Europe, June through October is the busiest time of year on the mountain. The weather is excellent as well. Typically, the days are pleasant and dry.

November-December

There is little to no rain in November. Because the North usually stays dry throughout this month, the Rongai is a suitable option. Even though it’s really chilly at the top, December is quickly growing in popularity.

When is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro temperature

The temperature on Mount Kilimanjaro correlates with the four distinct climatic zones:

What is the temperature at the summit of Kilimanjaro?

Since Kilimanjaro lies almost entirely on the equator, the lower slopes are typically hot and dry, with daytime highs of 25°C. But this rapidly declines with each biological zone: open heathlands, alpine deserts, and finally, at the top, the unquestionably Arctic. The overnight temperatures at Uhuru Point range from -7 to -29°C. There are a few wet seasons in Kilimanjaro, but they don’t stop trekking. However, they do manage to stop the throngs. When you feel mentally and physically prepared to climb Kilimanjaro, which is actually the optimum moment to do so.

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