Best Time to visit or Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro
What is the best time to visit or climb Mount Kilimanjaro? This is one of the questions that is frequently asked by potential travelers and climbers or hikers who are interested in exploring the Kilimanjaro Mountains. The location of this park or mountain Kilimanjaro is a determining factor in when to go or the best time to visit this great park. What is happening is that Tanzania, and particularly Kilimanjaro, is characterized by wet and dry conditions, and thus it is just a question of whether to visit it during the dry season or the wet season. Now, this is where the question of when the best time to visit Kilimanjaro stems from. Is it during the wet season or the dry season? The risks associated with ascending this peak are substantial when the weather is uncooperative, so this decision raises safety concerns. Rain, dirt, snow, ice, and cold can all have extremely harmful consequences for the body. However, the likelihood of finishing the hike during the wet season is similarly remote. It’s also crucial to be aware that the mountain may be busier in the summer.
The Kilimanjaro may be hiked at any time of the year, but as we’ve indicated, it’s best when there are fewer showers. Since this is an equatorial location, even during the rainy months, it does not necessarily mean that it rains every day. It can even rain during the dry months. December through March and late June through September are the dry months. In terms of weather, these can be regarded as the ideal months to climb, but they are also the busiest in terms of traffic.
You’ve decided to attempt Africa’s highest mountain, then? The optimal time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in terms of weather, trekking conditions, and popularity should then come to mind. Although Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania can be hiked throughout the year, some months are known for their lower temperatures, heavier rainfall, and even the possibility of significant snowfall on the summit. We typically suggest that the warmest and driest months of the year, which are December to mid-March and mid-June to the end of October, are the best times to climb Kilimanjaro. However, even though these are the months with the best weather for mountain climbing, they are also the busiest.
Climbing Kilimanjaro Mountain in January and February:
The two most popular and ideal months to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are January and February. Because they are the warmest, you can anticipate clear, sunny skies in the mornings and nights; clouds may appear in the afternoons, and you might see some rain. Some have reported that the ideal warm months are from January through March because of the sights and clean skies. There are small showers at this time, which brighten the sky. The worst time to hike is from late March to early June because of the prolonged showers; unless you have prior experience trekking in these conditions, you should avoid going during this period.
In March, April, and May, you can visit or climb Kilimanjaro.
The long rainy season begins at the end of March and lasts until the beginning of June. Because the paths can be quite muddy, snowy, and wet during this time, we do not advise climbing Kilimanjaro. You won’t get to take advantage of the breathtaking views and photo ops if you climb in the rain, which is also likely to make the experience less enjoyable. However, if you do decide to go trekking at this time of year, you’ll avoid the crowds at the campgrounds and on the trails (even the busiest trails may provide seclusion, calm, and tranquility). Additionally, some people like the prospect of climbing Kilimanjaro when the top is likely to be covered in snow since it might offer an extra layer of difficulty (as well as beautiful landscapes).
Due to frequent showers, late March to early June are rainy months, but the tourists are gone and you have the mountain to yourself. Although a little cooler and with afternoon showers in most cases, June to early October are also dry months with generally clear skies. Since this region is equatorial, the rains are frequently unpredictable, and the weather is frequently up to luck. Just as it is possible to have significant rain during the dry season, it is also conceivable to have generally dry weather conditions during the rainy season.
Visiting Kilimanjaro in June
June is typically much drier than March, April, and May since it marks the start of the dry season after the rainy season. However, you should dress for the cold since the sky is usually cloudy and the sights won’t necessarily be as breathtaking.
Climb Kilimanjaro in July, August, September, and October.
The weather is often colder but significantly drier from July until the end of October. Even while there is a potential for getting wet throughout the year, especially if you hike across moorlands and rainforests, normal precipitation levels are modest. You’ll feel more comfortable and have a better time on the walk overall if you stay dry. You will also enjoy clear, sunny skies, breathtaking views, and climbing throughout these months. The fact that the trails can get rather crowded during these months is a drawback, but some individuals enjoy the chance to socialize with other groups at the campsites. Teamwork is crucial for pushing yourself to the top, after all.
Visiting Kilimanjaro in November
The brief rainy season in Tanzania lasts from the beginning of November until the beginning of December. It frequently rains in the afternoons, while the mornings and evenings are usually clear. Due to the possibility of extremely muddy, slippery, and wet conditions, this month is not recommended for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Even though there is just a brief rainy season, it frequently extends into December, making this a popular time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Lastly, the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is especially lovely during a full moon. The vistas are breathtaking as the bright moon illuminates the glaciers. Another benefit of going on a walk at this time of day is that the moonlight will make it easier for you to see, especially on your last ascent to Uhuru Peak. Many people like to reach Uhuru Peak when the moon is closest to full, even though it is not necessary to do so to benefit from moonlight. A seven-day climb should begin five days before the full moon date, and an eight-day climb should begin six days before the full moon date if you do want to reach the summit on a full moon. Book early because these dates are incredibly popular and there are only a few spots available on the mountain at any one moment. We advise avoiding the full moon period entirely if you want a peaceful walk and a sky filled with beautiful stars. I hope by now you know the best time to visit and Climb Kilimanjaro with ease and without having any difficulty. Contact Africa Adventure Vacations for their great safari experience.