Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro | Ideal Seasons & Weather Guide

Introduction to Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most coveted peaks on every climber and hiker’s bucket list. The dormant Tanzanian volcano is known for being rough and difficult to climb. Soaring 19,341 feet (5,895 mt) in the sky, the Kilimanjaro peak beckons travelers from far and wide. As extreme as Mount Kilimanjaro’s terrain and climbing difficulty is, it’s weather is equally harsh, swinging between two extremes because of its proximity to the equator. The seasons in the region determine the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Check out our Kilimanjaro tour package for a well-planned and hassle-free trekking experience.

Kilimanjaro's Seasons

• Dry seasons

  • The driest months in Mount Kilimanjaro include June to October and December to February. These are generally considered to be the safest and choicest times to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. These are also the months with the highest footfall, so plan your trip well in advance. 

• Wet seasons

  • The wet season runs from March to May and then in November. This is a time when travelers are discouraged from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro because heavy rainfalls in the region result in wet soil and slippery slopes. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at this time becomes an even more strenuous task. 

What is the best season to climb Kilimanjaro?

• The best season to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is the dry season from June to October and then from December to March. These months offer clear skies and optimal temperatures for a safe and seamless trek. 

Best Months for Climbing Kilimanjaro

• December to March: For amateur climbers and trekkers, December to March are undoubtedly the best times to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The weather is ideal with clear skies and days without any sign of rain. 

• June to October: Starting from June, the peak time at Mount Kilimanjaro begins. September is the busiest month but it does not impact individual climbers since Mount Kilimanjaro is so vast that you’ll be unlikely to come across another trekking group on your way up the mountain. 

• November: Only experienced trekkers may enjoy the thrill of hiking Mount Kilimanjaro in November, which is when the second burst of monsoon hits the region. The area gets completely soaked and the trail becomes extremely slippery. 

• Pro Tip: Plan your climb to reach Mount Kilimanjaro's peak on a full moon night for a stunning experience. The moon's soft light illuminates the mountain, making it truly magical. To enjoy this, start your climb at least five days before the full moon night so you reach the peak at the perfect time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Time

• Weather conditions: This is undoubtedly one of the most crucial aspects to consider when planning a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro. The weather in the area varies every month and your ability to scale the peak also gets considerably impacted. From dry months to wet seasons, it’s advisable to do your research before booking your trip. Some experienced trekkers enjoy the added challenge of rain and slippery surfaces and may choose to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in the wet season. It all depends on your preferences and requirements.

• Crowds: The dry seasons are the most crowded with many people planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro from December to March. However, the volcano's surface is so expansive that people seldom come across other trekking groups during their climb. Nevertheless, there are numerous lesser-known trails that you can opt for to ensure you scale the peak comfortably. 

• Availability of permits: One cannot simply embark on a quest to climb the Tanzanian volcano. Tourists require a proper permit and the company of a licensed guide to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Moreover, the climbers have to take one of the predetermined routes to make it to the top. 

• Physical fitness: Some of the hardest tasks in our lives are often compared to climbing a mountain so you can only imagine the reality of challenges and preparation needed to scale a peak. Mount Kilimanjaro is the largest free-standing mountain in the world, making it one of the most difficult climbs across regions. It’s advisable to start your fitness and health journey up to a year in advance. From diet and muscle building to small treks and climbs, potential Mount Kilimanjaro climbers should adopt a holistic training plan to prepare for the climb.