Best time to Climb Kilimanjaro
When is the optimal time of year to climb Kilimanjaro? The most suitable months to climb Kilimanjaro are the dry periods from December to mid-March and mid-June to the end of October. During these months, the weather conditions are typically at their best with clear skies, excellent views, little-to-no rainfall, and plenty of sunshine.
However, it is always possible for weather conditions to change drastically, irrespective of the season.
You can climb Kilimanjaro at any time of year, but certain months are more favorable than others. We recommend climbing Mount Kilimanjaro during the driest months, avoiding April and November as these are the main rainy seasons, which can make the trails more hazardous.
Optimal time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro
What is the best month to climb Kilimanjaro? Month by month overview Unlike the Himalayas, Kilimanjaro is never “closed”. You can trek year-round, but you need to be well-prepared. We typically do not offer climbs during April/May and November.
Climbing Kilimanjaro in January and February to early March Ideal trekking conditions with mostly dry, clear days, and excellent visibility. There may be occasional showers, and a good chance of snow above 14,000ft, offering some stunning photo opportunities.
While this is considered “high season”, it’s often quieter on the slopes than the main climbing season of June to September, making it a good balance of not-too-crowded and decent weather.
Best for: Hikers who want to minimize crowds, whilst still having dry conditions. Snow on the summit is a bonus.
Climbing Kilimanjaro in March, April and May Early March can be delightful, but as the month progresses, the rains can start to set in, making for muddy trails, cloudy skies, and poor visibility. In late March and late May, you can get lucky with some dry weather, but it’s a bit hit or miss.
April to early May are the long rains and not suitable for climbing.
If your schedule dictates that you need to go during the shoulder seasons – late March and late May – you need to be prepared for wet weather, and not be disappointed by poor visibility.
Ideally, you’ll have some trekking experience already and won’t be phased by trickier trail conditions.
Best for: Experienced trekkers who want to avoid crowds, and who don’t mind unpredictable weather. We recommend the routes on the north side of the mountain.
Climbing Kilimanjaro in June/ July/ August and September A combination of the best weather and the US and Europe summer vacations means this is the main climbing season and the busiest time on the mountain. July and August are the most popular months, so if you want to try and avoid crowds, opt for June or September, or October if you don’t mind a bit of rain.
Occasional showers are always possible, particularly in the forest, but it’s a predominantly dry time of year. Routes tend to be busier during this period, especially over the full moon.
Best for: Climbers wanting the best weather for their trip, who aren’t deterred by crowds, which are mostly on the Marangu and Machame route.
Climbing Kilimanjaro in October / November Short rains usually come in November and last for 3-4 weeks. Often the rain is less persistent than in April-May (the “long rains”) and mostly come in the late afternoon. The mountain is very quiet during this time.
We would recommend the Rongai route or Northern circuit route as the northern side of the mountain is more shelter
