Climbing Kilimanjaro in June – Weather, Conditions & Best Routes (2026 Guide)
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in June is an excellent choice for trekkers seeking clear skies, stable weather, and cooler temperatures without the peak-season crowds. June marks the beginning of the long dry season on Kilimanjaro, offering reliable climbing conditions and some of the best visibility of the year. Although early June may still carry traces of the previous rainy season, the trails dry out quickly and conditions steadily improve throughout the month.
Climbing Kilimanjaro in June: Weather and Temperatures
June sits at the transition between the wet season and the long dry season, creating generally favorable trekking weather.
Weather in June
Beginning of the Dry Season: June is the official start of Kilimanjaro’s long dry season (June–October), known for sunny days, crisp air, and minimal rainfall.
Clear Skies: The mountain is often visible from base towns like Moshi and Arusha, offering beautiful photographic conditions.
Residual Moisture: Early June may still experience light showers, especially in the rainforest section, but rains decline rapidly as the month progresses.
Temperatures in June
Lower Elevations (Rainforest Zone)
Daytime: 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
Nights are cooler but generally comfortable
Higher Elevations (Alpine Zone)
Night temperatures: Frequently below freezing
Daytime temperatures: Cold but dry
Wind chill can drop conditions to –10°C to –20°C (14°F to –4°F) near the summit
Wind Conditions
High-altitude winds are common in June, especially above 5,000 meters. These winds increase the perceived cold, so appropriate layering is essential.
Best Time to Climb in June
Early June
Trails may still be slightly wet in the forest zone
Fewer climbers compared to later dates
Weather improves quickly week by week
Late June
Fully stable dry-season conditions
Clear skies and excellent summit visibility
Cool, dry air ideal for trekking
Full Moon Climbs in June
June is a popular month for full moon summit attempts, offering:
Natural illumination at night
Better visibility during the final ascent
Beautiful moonlit scenery on the glaciers and crater rim
Pre-booking is recommended for full moon departures.
Best Routes for Climbing Kilimanjaro in June
June is flexible for route choice, and most itineraries perform well in dry-season conditions.
1. Lemosho Route (Highly Recommended)
Exceptional acclimatization
Wide landscapes and panoramic views
Less crowded early in the month
2. Machame Route
Popular and scenic route with diverse terrain
Strong acclimatization profile
Ideal for trekkers wanting a balance of challenge and scenery
3. Rongai Route
Northern approach with drier conditions
Fewer crowds and gentler gradients
Particularly suitable if early June experiences residual rain on the southern side
4. Marangu Route
Only route with hut accommodations
Simple logistics
Lower success rate due to shorter acclimatization
Better for trekkers seeking hut comfort over camping
Why Climb Kilimanjaro in June?
Advantages
Start of the long dry season
Clear skies and excellent visibility
Moderate crowds—less busy than July, August, and September
Cooler temperatures ideal for hiking
Great month for photography
Challenges
Cold nights, especially at higher elevations
Strong summit winds
Early June may still have some wet patches on forest trails
Book Your Kilimanjaro June Climb
June departures are available daily, with options for private, luxury, or small-group climbs. Each itinerary includes:
KINAPA-licensed guides
Full support team (porters, cooks, camp crew)
All transfers
Pre-climb briefings and detailed preparation
Flexible dates and low deposits
Request a personalized June itinerary today and receive a detailed quote within 24 hours.