Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in October is one of the best choices of the year. October sits at the end of the long dry season, offering clear skies, stable weather, and excellent visibility—ideal conditions for a successful summit. Temperatures are mild, the terrain is dry, and the mountain’s landscapes are at their most beautiful. Although October is a busy month, the exceptional weather makes it a top option for trekkers seeking optimal climbing conditions.

Climbing Kilimanjaro in October: Weather and Temperature

Weather Conditions

October typically delivers:

• Very little rainfall

• Clear mornings and evenings

• Wide-open views from all zones

• Stable, predictable conditions

Toward the end of the month, the short rains may begin, but early and mid-October remain mostly dry.

Temperatures

Lower Elevations

• Daytime: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)

• Evenings become cooler, especially in the moorland zone

Summit (Uhuru Peak)

• Night temperatures often drop to –10°C (14°F) or lower

• Wind chill makes summit temperatures feel significantly colder

Clear skies often result in spectacular summit sunrises, but extra layers are essential for the bitterly cold summit push.

Crowds in October

October is a high-season month, attracting climbers from around the world thanks to its reliable weather.

• Busy trails on Machame and Marangu

• Campsites can fill quickly

• Ideal weather encourages high booking demand

Avoiding the Crowds

Choose less traveled routes such as:

• Lemosho Route – scenic, gradual, fewer crowds

• Northern Circuit – longest and quietest route on the mountain

• Rongai Route – drier northern approach with fewer climbers

Best Routes for Climbing Kilimanjaro in October

Machame Route (6–7 days)

• One of the most scenic routes

• High summit success rate

• Can be crowded during October

Lemosho Route (7–8 days)

• Optimal acclimatization

• Wide panoramic views

• Fewer crowds compared to Machame

Northern Circuit (9 days)

• Longest route with the best acclimatization

• Least crowded

• Ideal for those wanting solitude and maximum success rate

Marangu Route (5–6 days)

• Hut accommodation instead of camping

• Easier physical gradient

• Lower acclimatization profile

Why Climb Kilimanjaro in October?

Advantages

• Dry and stable trekking conditions

• Comfortable temperatures for hiking

• High summit success rates

• Excellent photography and panoramic visibility

• Less crowded than July and August, but still lively

Challenges

• Increasing crowds as peak season begins

• Potential for short rains late in the month

• Summit temperatures remain extremely cold

Book Your October Kilimanjaro Climb

All October climbs are fully customizable and available to start any day of the month.

Request your private itinerary and receive a detailed quote within 24 hours.