Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro?
Kudos for taking the challenge to conquer Africa’s Highest Peak! Let’s start with a favourable time to do so. The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry months, from January to early March and from June to October. Dry months offer clear skies, best views, little to no rain, and ample sunshine.
Best Weather, Season, and Time to Climb Kilimanjaro
Enjoy a safe, comfortable climb by following the best times for hiking and trekking.
Seasonal Time
Best Season to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
January-February
Clear views and stable conditions prevail during this time. This is a quieter and alternative season to the peak, dry season.
Long Dry Season
June-October
Clear skies, dry trails, and comfortable temperatures prevail during this time. The long, dry season has the highest summit success rate.
Long Rainy Season
March-May
Heavy rain, slippery trails, and reduced visibility prevail during this time. This period is not recommended for climbing due to the risk of landslides.
Short Rainy Season
November-Mid-December
Light showers and occasional clouds may occur during this season. The trails are less crowded and best for experienced trekkers seeking solitude.
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro by Route
Not all mountain routes offer the same flexibility or comfort. While some Kilimanjaro routes are tough, others are easier to climb. Here’s what the best climb via the best routes:
Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route is often described as calm and spacious, helping trekkers adjust to the weather and climb flexibly. The best time to climb via the Lemosho Route is from July to October, when the weather is stable and the views are clear. Other times, such as January to March, can be chosen for experiencing colder mornings and fewer climbers.
Machame Route
The Machame Route is a lively, social path and is flexible enough for camping along the way. The best time to climb via the Machame Route is from June to October for excellent summit views. Other times, such as January to February, generally experience clearer skies and slightly fewer people.
Shira Route
The Shira Route starts at a higher altitude than the others, which makes acclimatisation more challenging. The best time to climb is from June to October, the peak trekking season, when excellent visibility and dry, cooler temperatures are common. Other times, such as from January to early March, are warmer, with clear skies and fewer crowds.
Marangu Route
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route” for its hut-based accommodations, is attractive to beginners. The best time to climb is from June to October, the peak trekking season, when excellent visibility and dry, cooler temperatures are common. Other times, such as from January to early March, are warmer, with clear skies and fewer crowds.
Best Route to Climb Based on Your Goals
Cost and Value
The first step is to understand the cost of climbing Kilimanjaro and what you’ll get in return. The peak season (June to October) is the busiest and generally the most expensive, due to higher crowds and greater travel flexibility. Off-seasons. i.e., long-rain periods from April to May attract fewer crowds and offer the lowest average prices due to reduced demand. However, the risk of low visibility and navigational difficulty remains.
Soltitude and Trails
Many hikers prefer solitude, and for them, months like November and early December are the best times. During this period, the Rongai Route can be considered an alternative to the busy Machame Route. The risk of sudden rain exists, but a smaller crowd and a personalised experience are bonus points.
Unique Experience
If you are looking for a unique experience, the Full Moon and New Year Climb is a great option. For better accommodations and more flexible trekking, choose the Lemosho or Machame Route, offering high success rates and stunning illuminated views.
FAQ
Know about the best season, time and route to climb on Kilimanjaro:
Yes, absolutely. The mountain trails are accessible year-round. However, try to avoid it during the rainy season from April to May due to extremely difficult trail conditions.
The months (June to October) in the dry season have the highest summit success rates. This period is mostly characterised by dry, stable weather and minimal precipitation on the higher slopes. A significant reduction in high-altitude winds makes the final climb more accessible.
High demand exists to conquer the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro on New Year’s Day. However, you need to secure your bookings at least 6 to 8 months in advance. The celebratory climbs are generally priced higher and are likely to cost more.
If you want to climb Kilimanjaro on a specific date or time, we advise you to book your tour at least 6 months in advance. Booking 8 months in advance during peak season (June to October) can help you secure a spot.
The off-season months, involving April, May and November, have lower prices. Because of fewer crowds, the prices in the off-season are comparatively lower. Similarly, off-beaten routes offer a strong sense of solitude and isolation.
