Kilimanjaro Trekking: The Ideal Time to Go

While Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is open year-round, the conditions differ across the seasons, so it’s important to carefully consider when to trek Kilimanjaro. Fortunately, the weather on Kilimanjaro is fairly predictable, with distinct dry and rainy seasons.
Below, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of Kilimanjaro’s climbing seasons, the best times to attempt the trek, periods to avoid, and other factors to consider to ensure the best chance of success. At Pamoja Kilimanjaro, we have a summit success rate of over 95% on all our trips, one of the highest in the industry. This success is due in part to our thoughtful inclusion of acclimatization days in all our itineraries, ensuring the best possible chance of reaching the summit. Our team of experts knows the best times for Kilimanjaro expeditions, having explored the mountain from all sides.
We recommend climbing Kilimanjaro during the warmest and driest times of the year, typically from June to October and December to March. In fact, we only run trips to Kilimanjaro during these “high” seasons to ensure safety for all our climbers, a better chance of summit success, clear views from the top, and a more enjoyable experience. Keep reading for more information on the best times to climb Kilimanjaro!
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Kilimanjaro Season Breakdown

December to March

The period from mid-December to March is considered one of the best times to climb Kilimanjaro with Pamoja Kilimanjaro. You’ll find the mountain less crowded than the peak climbing months of June to October, yet you can still expect optimal climbing conditions, high summit success rates, and breathtaking views. During this period, the weather on Kilimanjaro is typically dry, with clear skies offering spectacular vistas. Snowfall above 14,000 feet adds a magical touch to the experience, providing perfect photo opportunities.
The temperatures on the lower slopes are generally warm, but the higher you climb, the colder it gets. Layers of clothing are essential, as the conditions can become quite cold above 14,000 feet. For those looking for an experience with fewer hikers on the trails, January is an especially good month, as it’s typically quieter than other times of the high season.
We believe December to March offers the most favorable trekking conditions, with excellent weather and stunning views. If you're planning your adventure after the holidays, it’s the perfect way to get something to look forward to in the new year!
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April to May

April and May mark the long rainy season on Kilimanjaro. During these months, heavy rains make the trails muddy, reduce visibility due to cloud cover, and create challenging conditions for climbers. The Machame and Marangu routes will remain open during this time, but trekking in these conditions can be difficult and less enjoyable.
The chances of success are lower due to the wet and slippery trails, which make for a more taxing experience. Although some tour operators offer discounted prices during the rainy season, we strongly advise against climbing Kilimanjaro at this time. We prioritize safety, and the rainy season brings conditions that could increase the risk of accidents.
At Pamoja Kilimanjaro, we do not offer trips during these months for good reason: the severe weather conditions can hinder progress and reduce your chances of reaching the summit.
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June to October

June to October is considered the "high season" for Kilimanjaro climbs. During this period, the weather on Kilimanjaro is dry and stable. Though temperatures may be cold, especially between June and August, the skies are typically clear, offering stunning views from the summit. September sees warmer temperatures, although this can also bring more climbers, leading to busier routes.
July and August are peak months for climbers, and though busy, they provide excellent conditions for summit attempts. October tends to be quieter, with the added benefit of fewer climbers on the trails. If a quieter experience is a priority, consider opting for less popular routes, such as the Rongai or Lemosho routes. These routes offer different landscapes and provide a more remote experience compared to the more trafficked Machame route.
With the optimal weather conditions during this time, we highly recommend climbing Kilimanjaro between June and October for the highest chance of success and a comfortable trekking experience. At Pamoja Kilimanjaro, our summit success rate is over 95% for climbs during this period.
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November

November marks the short rainy season on Kilimanjaro. The weather during this time can make the trails muddy and visibility poor, similar to the conditions in April and May. Only the Machame and Marangu route gates will be open, and although there will be fewer climbers, the weather and trail conditions make it less than ideal for trekking. Snow cover might be present, adding a unique element to the landscape, but we do not recommend climbing Kilimanjaro during November due to the unfavorable conditions.
At Pamoja Kilimanjaro, we do not offer trips during this month, as safety is our top priority, and November's weather can create significant risks on the mountain.
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Summary

While Kilimanjaro is open year-round, the best times for trekking are generally from June to October and December to March. These months offer the best weather conditions, fewer crowds (with the exception of peak months like July and August), and optimal chances of summit success. The rainy seasons (April, May, and November) should be avoided due to difficult trail conditions, low visibility, and increased risks.
Pamoja Kilimanjaro is here to guide you through every stage of your Kilimanjaro trek, ensuring you have the best experience possible. With careful planning, the right gear, and the right season, you’ll be on your way to reaching the summit of Africa’s highest peak.