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What are the Optimal Months for Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro?
Famous among hikers and mountaineers all over the world, Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most popular and adventurous hiking destinations in Africa. Located in Northern Tanzania, the mountain ranks as Africa’s tallest peak and the world’s tallest free-standing peak at 5,895 meters above sea level. The mountain is managed under Mount Kilimanjaro National Park by the Kilimanjaro National Parks Authority and the Tanzania National Parks Authority at large. Hikes up Mount Kilimanjaro are some of the most thrilling adventures, featuring moderate hikes compared to other hiking destinations like Mount Rwenzori in Uganda and Mount Kenya in Kenya, to mention but a few.
Mount Kilimanjaro is a year-around hiking destination; however, given its location in proximity to the equator, the mountain features two climatic seasons: the wet and dry seasons which are major factors to be considered when choosing the optimal time to go hiking on Mount Kilimanjaro. As a result, the ideal months to hike Mount Kilimanjaro tend to be the hottest and driest months of the year which present clear skies, warm temperatures, and dry trekking trails – all the best conditions for hiking.
The biggest concern when hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is safety since the hazards of climbing rise dramatically when the weather is bad. Rain, mud, snow, ice, and cold may be quite taxing on the body. As a result, the likelihood of a successful summit improves dramatically with good weather.
Generally, hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is best enjoyed during the hottest and driest months of the year, which are December to mid-March and mid-June to the end of October. However, while these are the greatest months to climb the peak in terms of weather, they are also the busiest. Let us break down the optimal season for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro including off-peak alternatives and times to avoid, as well as other aspects to consider, which will help you choose the optimal months for hiking the mountain;
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro from January to Early-March
The period of January and February through early March is ideal for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and hence the most popular. Trekking conditions are ideal, with usually dry, clear days and superb visibility on the mountain. There are occasional showers with a fair probability of snow over 14,000 feet; nonetheless, these provide for some fantastic photography moments. While this is called “high season,” the slopes are frequently quieter than during the major climbing season of June to September, providing a good blend of not-too-crowded and great weather. This is the best time for hikers who wish to avoid crowds while still enjoying dry conditions.
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro from March to May
Usually, the long rainy season begins at the end of March and lasts until early June; resulting in muddy trails, gloomy skies, and limited visibility. We often do not advocate hiking Mount Kilimanjaro during this time of year since the paths can be extremely wet, muddy, and snowy. Moreover, you’ll lose out on the great views and photo chances. If you do decide to trek at this time of year, it is possible to get lucky with dry weather between late March and late May, but it’s hit or miss. You will get to escape crowds on the trails and at the campsites.
Moreover, you must be prepared for rain and not be surprised by low visibility. Ideally, you’ll have some trekking experience and won’t be intimidated by more difficult path conditions. This period is suitable for experienced hikers who want to avoid crowds and don’t mind dealing with unexpected weather. For the best hiking experience during this season, we recommend hiking via the paths on the mountain’s north side.
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro from June to September or October
June marks the end of the long-wet season, featuring both rainy days at the beginning of the month and a lot of sunshine towards the end, and it is significantly drier than March, April, and May. However, you should be prepared for chilly weather and overcast sky, which means you won’t necessarily have such spectacular vistas.
From July through the end of October however, the weather is often cooler but significantly drier than in prior months. While there is a risk of rain throughout the year, especially when you travel into the jungle and moorlands, precipitation is normally light and sporadic. Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro at this time presents comfortable conditions and pleasurable walks. More so, the sky will be bright and sunny, with great vistas.
Nonetheless, the drawback of trekking during these months is that the trails can get rather crowded, although some individuals like the chance to interact with other groups at the campsites. This period is ideal for hikers looking for the greatest weather for their trip and who aren’t put off by crowds.
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro from November to December
The brief rainy season in Tanzania begins in early November and lasts until early December. Afternoon showers are usual, although a bright sky may be expected in the mornings and nights. This period is characterized by rain, and muddy and slippery trails, which may not be the best conditions for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro. Although the brief rainy season frequently extends into December, it is still a popular time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. If you are looking for less crowds and do not mind the rain, this is an ideal time for you to go hiking on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro During the Full Moon
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro during the full moon offers the most breathtaking and scenic hikes: at this time, the glaciers are illuminated by the full moon, and the sights are breathtaking. The moment you emerge from your tent you are welcomed by the majesty of the mountain illuminated by the moon. You won’t even need a headlamp as you rise because the moon is bright and spectacular. Another advantage of hiking at this time of year is that the moonlight will aid your vision throughout your journey, especially on your last ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Although it is not advised to reach the peak on the precise full moon day to take advantage of the moonlight, many people like to do so. If you want to summit on a full moon, begin your 7-day hike at least five days before the full moon date, and your 8-day hike at least six days before the full moon date, respectively. However, you ought to your hike early since this time is very popular among hikers and only a limited number of people are permitted on the mountain at any given time.
Preparing for a Hike on Mount Kilimanjaro
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is a top safari adventure to add to your bucket list, but it’s no simple accomplishment, and you must be prepared. Here are a few things you should do to prepare for your hike;
Enhance your Physical Fitness
Making sure you’re physically fit will enhance your overall experience of hiking Mount Kilimanjaro. You can do this by practicing good cardiovascular exercises, bike rides, regular runs, or gym classes months before your hike. Strength training, such as lifting weights and performing core exercises like planks, squats, and lunges, can also help you prepare for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro. However, a lot of long walks are the greatest way to prepare for the hike itself: doing frequent 4–6-hour walks in the footwear you’ll be wearing (to minimize blisters on Kilimanjaro) will help you adjust to the amount of time you spend on your feet and the meals you prefer to consume when trekking.
Pack the Right Hiking Gear
Preparing for a Mount Kilimanjaro Hike also includes packing the right hiking gear which includes clothes, and footwear among many others. The porters may provide and carry camping equipment and food, but it is recommended to invest in and pack excellent hiking gear such as warm clothing, hiking boots, a duffel bag, trekking pole, backpack, energy-giving snacks, water bottle, medical kit, sleeping bag, head torch, sun hat, sunscreen to mention but a few; to have the best chance of reaching the summit and enjoying the walk.
Prepare for the Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness (the inability to acclimate to the high altitude) is the most prevalent obstacle that often prevents many climbers from reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This can be caused by rising too quickly; also, bear in mind that the danger of altitude sickness rises if you have a cold or the flu, so climb Kilimanjaro only after you have fully recovered. Otherwise, we recommend hiking via the more leisurely Lemosho route where you will climb the mountain gently and acclimate well, giving you the best chance of reaching the peak.
