Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro

Ideal weather conditions play a significant role in the successful Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing summit. The dry seasons of June to October are considered to be the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro. But why is time so important? And how does the Kilimanjaro Weather affect your Kilimanjaro Trekking expedition? Let’s try and find out.

A Kilimanjaro Climbing Expedition is unique in so many ways. You will have to navigate through several distinct climate zones from origin to summit. It feels as if Climbing Kilimanjaro is like traveling from the equator to Antarctica in just a matter of days.

That’s because no matter which route you take, you’re bound to cross several different ecological zones to reach Uhuru Peak.

Mt. Kilimanjaro Weather

Mount Kilimanjaro stands at an astound height of 19,341 ft. above sea level. With such height and proximity to the equator, no wonder, Kilimanjaro creates its weather systems.

Another factor that you should consider is the monsoons. It moves across the ocean, drawing moisture upwards, and gets interrupted by the mountain. As a result, the wind is pushed upwards the summit, cooling down as it goes and bringing rain and snow. Therefore, Kilimanjaro sees frequent rainfall sometimes without any drastic temperature change.

With the incoming leading winds from the South-east, April and May are the wettest periods for Kilimanjaro. During this time, the winds pick up a great deal of moisture while traveling over the Indian Ocean. Later as the wind direction gets forced up the mountain, it gradually cools down and turns into clouds.

If you’re planning to Climb Kilimanjaro during this period, then it is wise to avoid the southern slopes. Because this site gets the maximum rain during these months. Instead, it would be more prudent to take the Rongai Route. Because this trail leads up to the less frequent rainy northern side of Kilimanjaro.

Mt. Kilimanjaro experiences the driest months from June to October. During this time, strong winds blow in from the northeast. These winds carry little to no moisture, thus compressing the South-east winds downwards. Consequently, the mountain is relatively free of precipitation and clouds, especially higher up.

TimeLess Dream Travels recommend popular routes like the Machame Route or Lemosho Route for this period.

On Mount Kilimanjaro, November marks the beginning of the Northeast monsoon period. This period bringing frequent light rains on the north side of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Best Months to Climb Kilimanjaro

The Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro can be separated into two distinct periods: January to March and June to October. Both these Kilimanjaro Climbing Seasons offer different benefits depending on what you’re looking for.

Kilimanjaro Hike; January to March season

The January to March season is mostly chilly. So, you’re likely to encounter snow on the upper slopes of the mountain. It is perfectly normal to grow a little skeptical about the cold but look at the brighter side. During this time, there are generally fewer people on the mountain. This means your journey will be hassle-free, less congested and, more relaxing. If you even encounter any rain, it will usually be restricted to the lower slopes. Apart from that, the crystal clear sky will make the Kilimanjaro Full moon Summit attempt worthwhile.

Kilimanjaro Hike; June to October season

As we mentioned before June to October is the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro. You will experience the best of Kilimanjaro Weather during this period. Everyone wants to Climb Kilimanjaro during the best weather. Moreover, this period coincides perfectly with the European and American summer holidays. If you want to Trek Kilimanjaro during this time, then Timeless Dream Travels offers you one of the quieter routes, that is, the Northern Circuit.

Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro; Additional Tips

We strongly advise you to avoid the months of April, May, and November for your Kilimanjaro Trekking Expedition. That’s because, these are the wettest months on Mt. Kilimanjaro, thus not ideal for trekking at all.

Also, the coldest months of Mt. Kilimanjaro fall between December and March. Therefore, snowfall is highly likely during this time. So, if you’re Climbing Kilimanjaro in these months, pack up extra warm layers.

Lastly, while deciding the best time to Climb Kilimanjaro you should take into account the cost of airfares. Because the cost varies drastically throughout the year. Especially during the European holiday months.

Timeless Dream Travels has earned a spotless reputation for its safe Kilimanjaro Trekking. Our tried and tested Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages boast a highly successful summit rate.