Because of Kilimanjaro’s proximity to the equator, the area doesn’t experience the extremes of summer and winter weather. But, instead, the weather around the region is characterized by the dry and wet seasons. A Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing expedition can be undertaken at any point of the year. Though the driest months – from mid-December and March and from June to October have the best weather conditions and are considered the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro.
Great hiking conditions are complemented by good visibility and dry, clear days. Photographic opportunities are plenty, especially in the higher altitude regions (over 14,000 ft.).
While these months are still considered the high season, it’s still quieter in terms of the crowds on the slopes as compared to the peak climbing season (from June to September).
Hence, this period strikes a perfect balance between decent weather conditions and not too many crowds.
Suitable for – Climbers who want to have a low-crowd expedition up the mountain, and those who prefer dry weather. Plus, the ice-capped summit is a bonus.
The period of early March has lovely weather but as the month moves forward rains start to settle in, giving way to cloudy skies, muddy trails and low visibility. So, if you’re looking for the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro , then March is a bit of a hit or miss.
The time from April to early May experience the long rains and climbing is not recommended. But, if you don’t mind the slippery conditions and have a fair bit of trekking experience, then the trickier conditions and trails might not be a hindrance for you.
Suitable for – Seasoned climbers who want to avoid the crowds and don’t mind the unpredictable weather.
This period is widely regarded as the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro . These months have the best weather conditions, even though some occasional bursts of rain are still possible. But, largely this is a dry time of the year, and routes tend to be busier, especially during the full moon.
Suitable for – Climbers making use of the two Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes , Machame and Marangu, those who are looking for the best weather and trail conditions, and those who don’t mind the presence of crowds.
The short rains arrive in the month of November and last for around 3-4 weeks. These showers often come in the late afternoon. Kilimanjaro is very quiet this time of the year and the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro for anyone who wants an exclusive adventure.
The Rongai Route and the Northern Circuit Route are advised for climbers because the northern side of the mountain is sheltered and receives less overall rainfall.
Suitable for – Avoiding the presence of crowds, and perfect for experienced climbers who don’t mind the wet trails and weather conditions.
Before you ascend the world’s highest free-standing mountain, some considerations have to be made. These include weather conditions, temperature, visibility, etc. Below we’ll look at them in more detail:
Mount Kilimanjaro is located close to the equator, which is why it doesn’t experience the same seasons as most parts of the world. Instead, it has two distinct seasons – the dry and rainy seasons. Both of them alter the conditions on the mountain.
The temperatures on Kilimanjaro change with the different climatic zones as you ascend the mountain. The varying zones are divided into five, namely Civilization, Rainforest, Moorland, Alpine Desert, and Arctic Ice.
Two distinct bursts of rain mark the wet season of Kilimanjaro:
The rainy season starts at around mid-March and generally extends well into the month of May. At this time, the conditions are wet and muddy, especially along the southern face of the mountain.
From late March to the end of May, and throughout the month of November, the visibility on Kilimanjaro is significantly low.
This is because of the cloud cover, mist, and fog. So, remember this appraisal when considering When to Climb Kilimanjaro because you are going to miss out on some great photographic shots.
The favourable weather conditions of Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing from January to March and June to October also make it the busiest time of year to climb the mountain.
If you aren’t bothered by the rainfall and are well-equipped then the shoulder season, just before and after the rains are the quietest period on the mountain.
In the wetter times of the year, we recommend the northern side routes of Kilimanjaro. This is because they are more sheltered and don’t receive as much rainfall compared to the other sections.
Fantastic star gazing opportunities and visible constellations, illuminated by a shining orb in the sky! This is the charming and magical experience of Climbing Kilimanjaro under a full moon.
The only downside to Climbing Kilimanjaro on a full moon night is the presence of crowds. So keep this in mind if crowds are a problematic factor for you.
A Bonus Insight – A New Year’s Eve climb takes place during the short dry season on Mount Kilimanjaro and is also regarded as one of the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro .
Want to know how you can settle on the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro ? Everyone does, but what they miss out on is first deciding what experience they would like to have.
Hence figure out if you would prefer an exclusive climbing expedition, a full moon climb under the twinkling skyline, or a climb in the best weather conditions and you’ll conquer Kilimanjaro in its prime time.
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Summit the majestic Kilimanjaro
Conquering Africa’s biggest mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro.
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Africa’s biggest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro
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Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro can be a thrilling experience.
Climbing Africa’s biggest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro
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Climbing Africa’s tallest Mountain, Kilimanjaro
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Looking to conquer the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro?
Looking to conquer the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro?
There are no obligatory Kilimanjaro Vaccinations
Resting in the Kilimanjaro Tents is a dream come true
Be prepared for a trek through a variety of terrains
Being conscious of Kilimanjaro Weather before your tour up the mountain
Being conscious of Kilimanjaro Weather before your tour up the mountain
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