Choosing the best time to hike Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most important decisions when planning your trek.
While Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, weather patterns, trail conditions, and visibility vary significantly
throughout the year. Understanding these seasonal changes helps you choose a safe, enjoyable window and increases
your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.

When Is the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro?

The most recommended time to hike Kilimanjaro is during the two main dry seasons:
from late June to October and from December to early March. These periods offer the most stable weather, clearer
skies, and better underfoot conditions, making them ideal for summit attempts.

June to October – Long Dry Season

The June to October period is widely considered prime climbing season. Temperatures at the base are cool and
comfortable, while nights at higher camps and on the summit can be very cold. Trails are generally dry, and
visibility is excellent, with sweeping views of the surrounding plains and the mountain itself.

Because conditions are so favorable, this is also one of the busiest times on the mountain, especially in July,
August, and September. If you do not mind sharing the trail with other trekkers, this season offers some of the
most reliable conditions for a successful climb.

December to Early March – Short Dry Season

The second main climbing window runs from December to early March. Daytime temperatures tend to be slightly warmer
than in the middle of the year, particularly at lower elevations, while summit nights remain very cold.
Skies are frequently clear, especially in January and February, and trail conditions are generally good.

This is an excellent time for those who prefer slightly warmer days and a bit more space on the mountain. The
holiday period around late December can be busy, but outside that time the short dry season often has fewer
climbers than the long dry season.

Rainy Seasons – When Conditions Are More Difficult

Kilimanjaro has two distinct rainy seasons, during which hiking becomes more challenging. Trails can become muddy,
visibility is reduced, and the overall experience can be less comfortable for many climbers.

March to May – Long Rains

The long rainy season typically runs from March through May. Heavy, prolonged rainfall is common, cloud cover is
thicker, and the mountain can feel cold and damp. Trails are often muddy and slippery, especially in the forest
zone. This period is generally considered the least favorable time to climb and is recommended only for experienced
hikers who are comfortable trekking in persistent rain and who value solitude over comfort.

November – Short Rains

November brings a shorter rainy period. The rainfall is usually less intense than in April and May, but conditions
can still be wet and unpredictable. Trails may be slippery and certain days can be very cloudy. On the positive
side, there are fewer people on the mountain, which appeals to some experienced and flexible climbers.

Kilimanjaro Weather by Month

Kilimanjaro’s weather changes month by month. While the mountain can be climbed at any time of year, some months
are clearly more favorable than others in terms of temperature, rainfall, and visibility.

January

January is one of the best months to climb. The weather is generally warm and relatively dry, with clear skies and
excellent visibility. Trails are in good condition, and although nights are cold at higher elevations, overall
conditions are very favorable.

February

February offers very similar conditions to January. It is one of the most reliable months for stable weather and
beautiful views, with dry trails and comfortable daytime temperatures at lower altitudes.

March

March is a transition month. Early March can still provide decent climbing conditions, but as the month progresses,
rainfall increases and the long rainy season begins. Trails may become muddier and visibility more variable.
Climbers should be prepared for changing conditions.

April

April is typically one of the wettest months on Kilimanjaro. Heavy rainfall, persistent cloud cover, and slippery
trails are common. Views are often obscured, and it can feel cold and damp at higher elevations. Only experienced
hikers who are comfortable in wet weather usually choose this period.

May

The long rainy season continues through May. Trails remain muddy and visibility is frequently poor. This is one of
the quietest times on the mountain because conditions are so challenging. For most climbers, May is not recommended.

June

June marks the start of the long dry season. Rainfall decreases significantly, clouds begin to clear, and
visibility improves. Days are cool and nights can be quite cold higher up. It is an excellent month to climb,
with good conditions and moderate crowds.

July

July is a very popular month. The weather is generally dry and clear, and views are often spectacular. Trails
remain in good condition, though summit nights are very cold. It is one of the best months for those prioritizing
stable weather and clear skies.

August

August offers similarly strong conditions: clear, dry, and cold at higher altitudes. It is also one of the busiest
months on the mountain. For climbers who do not mind the crowds, August is an outstanding time to attempt a summit.

September

September continues the good conditions of the dry season, with slightly warmer days and cool nights. Trails are
dry and visibility is excellent. Visitor numbers begin to drop compared to July and August, making this a top
choice for many trekkers.

October

October is a transitional month. The first half of the month can still be relatively dry with good conditions,
but the likelihood of rain increases later in the month as the short rainy season approaches. Climbers in early
October often still enjoy pleasant weather but should be prepared for occasional showers.

November

November falls in the short rainy period. Rain is less intense than during the long rains, but trails can still be
slippery and days more overcast. The mountain is quieter, and while some experienced hikers appreciate the solitude,
conditions can be challenging.

December

December brings a return to drier conditions, particularly later in the month. The weather is often warm at lower
elevations, with clear skies and good visibility. As the holiday season approaches, the number of climbers
increases, making it a popular time to combine a Kilimanjaro climb with festive travel.

Best Month to Hike Kilimanjaro

Overall, the best months to hike Kilimanjaro are January, February, July, August, and September. These months
offer the most reliable combination of dry weather, clear skies, and good trail conditions. Whether you are an
experienced high-altitude trekker or attempting your first major mountain, scheduling your climb within these
windows will greatly improve your chances of a safe and successful summit.

Season Ratings and Recommendations

From 16 January to 28 February, conditions are superb. Temperatures are reasonable, rainfall is moderate to low,
and there is often little cloud cover. Visitor traffic is medium, and all routes are generally open and in good
condition.

From 1 March to 31 March, conditions become more variable. Temperatures remain comfortable, but the chance of rain
and cloud increases, especially toward the end of the month. Visitor numbers are low, and climbers may lean toward
routes like Rongai, which tend to be drier.

From 1 April to 15 June, conditions are difficult and can sometimes be dangerous due to high rainfall, muddy
trails, and poor visibility. Temperatures are still reasonable, but all routes feel tough in these conditions.
Visitor traffic is very low.

From 16 June to 15 July, conditions are variable but improving. Rainfall decreases, visibility improves, and snow
and ice may be present on the summit. It is cold at high altitude, but the overall experience is good. Visitor
traffic is medium, with some preference for routes like Rongai early in this period.

From 16 July to 31 August, conditions are generally good. It is very cold at the summit, with snow and ice, but
rainfall is low and skies are often clear. Visitor numbers are high and all major routes are open.

From 1 September to 15 October, conditions are very good. Temperatures are reasonable, rainfall remains low, and
visibility is often excellent. Visitor traffic is high and all routes are accessible.

From 16 October to 31 October, conditions are variable again. Temperatures are still manageable, but the risk of
rain increases and chances of clear views start to decline. Visitor traffic is medium, and climbers often favor
the Rongai Route later in this period.

From 1 November to 15 December, conditions are typically difficult and sometimes dangerous. Temperatures are
reduced, rain and snowfall are more common, and thunderstorms can occur. Visitor numbers are low and all routes
feel demanding in these conditions.

From 16 December to 15 January, conditions are variable but can be rewarding. Temperatures are cooler at altitude,
with the possibility of rain or snowfall and heavier cloud at lower elevations. Visitor traffic is very high due
to the holiday period, and some climbers lean toward the Rongai Route, especially early in this window.

Popular Routes on Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro offers several established trekking routes, each with its own character, level of difficulty,
and style of accommodation. Choosing the right route is just as important as choosing the right season.

Machame Route: Often called the “Whiskey Route,” Machame is a challenging but highly scenic
option. It passes through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert, and is known for excellent acclimatization.
Most climbers complete it in 6 to 7 days.

Marangu Route: Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu is the only route with hut accommodations
instead of tents. It is considered technically easier and is popular with first-time trekkers who prefer more
comfort. The typical duration is 5 to 6 days.

Lemosho Route: Lemosho is renowned for its beautiful scenery and quieter trails during the
early days of the climb. It offers a gradual ascent and very good acclimatization, usually taking 7 to 8 days.

Rongai Route: Rongai is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north. It is drier
than the southern routes and often used during the wetter months by those seeking better underfoot conditions.
The climb typically lasts 6 to 7 days and offers a quieter, more remote experience.

When selecting a route, consider factors such as the length of the itinerary, your fitness level, whether you
prefer huts or camping, and how important solitude, scenery, and acclimatization are to your experience.