When to Climb Kilimanjaro

It is possible to trek Kilimanjaro all-year-round. However, certain months are characterised by colder weather, more rain and potentially loads of snow on the summit.For many climbers this question is almost irrelevant as they will have to fit their climb into whatever dates they can clear from their busy work or family schedules, though for perhaps the majority, this is probably the first question prospective climbers should ask themselves.

With respect to some of the peculiar benefits of climbing during rainy months – albeit, these factors are appreciated by a relative minority – and to the fact that we are generally able to minimise crowding to a very acceptable level at all times of year (with very occasional and unpredictable exceptions), there are really no months that absolutely have to be avoided.

For those who are not wanting to risk finding themselves in crowds at any point on the mountain, and who also wish to avoid the times of year when rain is a near certainty, the following months would usually be considered: January, March, June, October.

In wet season for a few climbers however, there is an added attraction to climbing during rainy months because:

• There are virtually no crowds on any routes. So even a busy and heavily commercialised route like Machame can be almost empty and one can pretty much have the trail to oneself.
• For some, the idea of climbing Kilimanjaro when the summit is most likely to be snowcapped can feel like a more authentic alpine experience and adds an additional element of challenge to the adventure.