Best Time To Hike Mount Kilimanjaro
A Complete Guide to the Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
If you’re gearing up to conquer Africa’s tallest mountain, the next step is to determine the optimal time to embark on your Kilimanjaro adventure, considering factors such as weather, trekking conditions, and the mountain’s popularity.
While it’s technically possible to hike Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro throughout the year, certain months are marked by colder temperatures, increased rainfall, and potentially heavy snowfall at the summit.
We typically recommend climbing Kilimanjaro during the warmest and driest periods, which generally occur from December to mid-March and mid-June to the end of October.
These months are considered ideal for climbing due to favorable weather conditions, but they also tend to be the most crowded.
In this guide, we explore the prime climbing seasons, quieter alternatives, and times to avoid. We’ll also discuss other important factors to help you plan the perfect timing for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
- Climbing Kilimanjaro in January & February
- Climbing Kilimanjaro in March, April & May
- Climbing Kilimanjaro in June
- Climbing Kilimanjaro in July, August, September & October
- Climbing Kilimanjaro in November
- Climbing Kilimanjaro in December
- Climbing Kilimanjaro During a Full Moon
- Additional Considerations for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
Many trekkers arrive at Mount Kilimanjaro with hopes of embarking on a grand wilderness adventure on the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. At the very least, they expect some peace and quietness to reflect on the most difficult physical challenge they may ever face, yet finding a circus instead of solitude can be a huge let-down. You should look at the calendar month by month to see when the best time is to take your trip. In addition to this, you should also consider what else you want to accomplish on your trip. More so, as a potential climber of Mount Kilimanjaro, yet to decide when you will be able to climb the mountain, these factors will differ from person to person. However, the weather and your ability to withstand the conditions must be carefully considered.
Best Time To Hike Mount Kilimanjaro Month By Month
January to mid-March:
The mountain has average temperatures and low rainfall from January to March. They are some of the hike’s warmest months. Although it is not the driest season, it is dry enough to allow for a safe and enjoyable trek. With its sunny and clear skies, this time of year provides breathtaking views. It may rain throughout the day, but showers are usually brief and warm. If you bring some rain gear with you, these months are some of the best Time To Hike Mount Kilimanjaro.
End of March, April, and May:
From the end of March to May is the long, rainy season, and climbing Kilimanjaro during this time is not recommended unless you are a very experienced hiker. The visibility is low, but you’ll have the mountain almost entirely to yourself due to the few hikers who are willing to embark on this mountain during this time. I’m not sure if that’s such a good deal if you can’t see anything. Furthermore, the trail on the lower altitude zones becomes extremely muddy. During this time, many guides will not even offer to take you on the trek. These months therefore are not the best Time To Hike Mount Kilimanjaro.
June to October:
During this time, both the temperature and rainfall become steady and the trails start to dry out. The cold temperatures begin to occur from mid-June to October, so if you enjoy the crisp air, this may be an ideal time for you. To be specific, the mild weather, in the region’s driest month of September gives you the best month to venture up Kilimanjaro. This time of year is extremely dry, so you won’t have to worry about rain.
The middle of June to the end of October is also the busiest season for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, especially on the Marangu and Machame routes, and especially because it is summer vacation in North America and Europe. This gives the trekkers a chance to hike in big groups and get to interact with each other, making the hike a more memorable one. These months offer some of the best Time To Hike Mount Kilimanjaro.
From November to December:
The short rainy season in Tanzania begins in early November and lasts until early December. This makes it a short rainy season on Kilimanjaro, with plenty of short afternoon rains, and it’s not a good time to climb. Though the afternoon rains become common, clear skies can be expected in the mornings and evenings. This is not best Time To Hike Mount Kilimanjaro because conditions can be very wet, muddy, and slippery.
Climbing Kilimanjaro During Full Moon
Climbing Kilimanjaro During a Full Moon
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro during a full moon offers a uniquely breathtaking experience. The bright moonlight illuminates the glaciers, creating a stunning and almost magical landscape. One of the key advantages of trekking during this time is the enhanced visibility provided by the moonlight, especially during your final ascent to Uhuru Peak.
While it’s not necessary to reach the summit on the exact date of the full moon to enjoy the benefits of the moonlight, many trekkers aim to coincide their summit with the full moon for an even more memorable experience.
If you wish to summit on a full moon, you should plan a seven-day climb to begin five days before the full moon or an eight-day climb to start six days prior. Due to the popularity of these dates, it’s advisable to book well in advance, as the number of trekkers allowed on the mountain at any given time is limited.
For those seeking a quieter and more serene trek, consider avoiding the full moon period altogether. This will also give you the opportunity to enjoy a sky filled with brilliant stars.
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes: Best Time To Hike Mount Kilimanjaro
Several different Kilimanjaro routes lead to the summit of Uhuru Point. They eventually converge into a single path to the summit, but each path is very different.
The Machame Path: The Machame Route is popular because, despite being one of the “shorter” routes (seven days), it has an excellent summit success rate of 60% (this means that 60% of climbers will reach the summit, owing to the extra time to adapt). On the other hand, it is a very difficult route.
The Marangu Path: While the Machame Route is known as the “Whiskey Route,” the equally popular Marangu Route is known as the “Coca-Cola Route” due to its ease of access. It is less steep and shorter. However, due to its short length, the success rate is lower. This route also allows you to sleep in huts rather than tents.
The Lemosho Trail: The Lemosho Route is longer (up to 10 days) but easier for those with less trekking experience, and the scenery is just as stunning as the Machame Route. It’s a quieter trek because it’s less popular. However, if you are short on time, the Lemosho Route is not the best option.
The Rongai Path: This is the only approach route from Kenya’s side. Rongai offers options for faster (or slower) ascents, as well as the chance to see wildlife such as elephants and buffalo. This hike can be completed in 6-8 days.
Weather and Climatic Zones on Mount Kilimanjaro
Because the range is so broad, Kilimanjaro’s temperatures will range from hot to bitterly cold. Depending on your route, and sometimes due to drastic climatic changes on the mountain, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled from the equator to Antarctica in no time! This is due to the various ecological zones you pass through on your way to the summit. Kilimanjaro is divided into five major ecological zones, each about 1000 meters apart. As altitude increases, so do rainfall and temperature.
The lower slopes, for example, are known as the Cultivation Zone because they are used for farmland including coffee and banana crops, and during the rainy season, rivers may form from rainfall run-off in this zone.
As you climb, you’ll find yourself in the lowland Rainforest Zone (1,800m – 2,800m), which is dense and full of wildlife such as monkeys and antelopes. When temperatures are high, this zone provides good shade from the glaring sun.
As you leave the rainforest zone, the vegetation begins to thin out in the Heath zone (2,800m – 3,400m) and Moorland Zone (3,400m – 4,000m), and temperatures begin to fall. The Alpine Desert Zone (4,000m – 5,000m) which comes next is dry and cold, and the Arctic Summit Zone (5,000m+) is the final zone. The top is more barren and rocky, but the views are unobstructed, especially with clear skies.
Extreme and colder weather is more common in the Arctic Summit zone where temperatures frequently drop below freezing (as low as -20 degrees Celsius) year-round and bad weather is more common. Knowing what to expect in each of these climate zones will help you prepare for a comfortable hike.
Safety and Precaution While Planning a Hike to Mount Kilimanjaro
It would be thoughtless to discuss climbing Kilimanjaro without mentioning safety and trail conditions along the way, especially given that this is Africa’s tallest mountain.
- If you are inexperienced, stick to climbing Kilimanjaro during the dry season. Slippery trails and mud will be difficult to navigate if you’ve never been in this type of terrain before. You’ll be less stressed and much more comfortable during the final ascent.
- Use a reputable tour guide. Kilimanjaro guides take your safety very seriously and will not put you in danger. Remember that the most knowledgeable guides have done this a hundred times! Your guides will keep a close eye on the weather forecast and any other potentially hazardous conditions. Prepare by conducting preliminary research.
- Go for the summit at night. Most guides recommend attempting the seven-hour summit shortly after midnight so that you are there when the sun rises. It’s also easier to climb the mountain while the rocky path is still frozen, and you’ll have a full day to descend to lower elevations. Yes, it’s difficult to imagine climbing after midnight, but it’s the best way to do it! The night is the Best Time To Hike Mount Kilimanjaro.
Essential Packing List for a Mount Kilimanjaro Hike
Preparing for a Mount Kilimanjaro hike requires careful planning and packing. The right gear and clothing are crucial for a successful and comfortable trek. Here’s a comprehensive packing list to ensure you’re well-equipped for your Kilimanjaro adventure:
Clothing
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms to keep you warm and dry.
- Mid Layers: Fleece or soft-shell jacket and pants for insulation.
- Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants to protect against rain and wind.
- Hiking Pants and Shorts: Lightweight, quick-drying options for different weather conditions.
- T-shirts and Long-Sleeve Shirts: Moisture-wicking materials to keep sweat at bay.
- Warm Hat and Gloves: Insulated gloves and a beanie or balaclava to keep your head and hands warm.
- Sun Hat and Sunglasses: Protection from the intense sun at high altitudes.
- Gaiters: Keep debris from your boots and protect against mud and snow.
- Socks: High-quality, moisture-wicking hiking socks and thermal socks for colder days.
- Underwear: Moisture-wicking and quick-drying.
Footwear
- Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof, and well-broken-in boots with good ankle support.
- Camp Shoes: Lightweight shoes or sandals for relaxing at camp.
Gear
- Backpack: A comfortable daypack (30-40 liters) with a rain cover for carrying essentials during the day.
- Duffel Bag: A durable, waterproof duffel (70-90 liters) for porters to carry your gear.
- Sleeping Bag: A four-season sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures.
- Sleeping Pad: This is for added insulation and comfort.
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable and sturdy poles to help balance and reduce knee strain.
- Headlamp: With extra batteries for night trekking and around camp.
- Water Bottles and Hydration System: Insulated water bottles and a bladder to stay hydrated.
- Water Purification Tablets: These are used to purify water from streams.
- Snacks and Energy Bars: High-calorie snacks for energy boosts during the trek.
Accessories
- Personal First Aid Kit: Including blister care, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and any personal prescriptions.
- Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and toilet paper.
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF to protect against the intense sun.
- Insect Repellent: To ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- Multi-tool or Knife: For any unexpected repairs or needs.
- Camera: To capture the stunning views.
- Portable Charger/Power Bank: To keep your electronics charged.
- Travel Documents: Passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and permits.
- Cash: For tips, souvenirs, and any other needs.
Optional Items
- Earplugs: These are used to block out noise at camp.
- Hand and Foot Warmers: These are for extra warmth in extreme cold.
- Diary or Journal: To document your journey.
- Book or E-Reader: For entertainment during downtime.
Final Tips
- Layering is Key: Kilimanjaro’s climate varies greatly, so be prepared to layer up and down as needed.
- Pack Light but Efficiently: Porters have weight limits, so stick to the essentials and avoid overpacking.
- Test Your Gear: Before the trek, ensure your boots, backpack, and other gear are comfortable and broken.
By packing smart and being well-prepared, you’ll be ready to tackle Kilimanjaro’s diverse and challenging conditions confidently.
