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!
---

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!
---

April to May

April and May are known as the long rainy season on Kilimanjaro. During these months, trails can become muddy and slippery, visibility may be reduced due to cloud cover, and overall conditions can be more challenging for climbers. While this can make the trek more demanding, it also offers a quieter, more serene experience on the mountain — with far fewer climbers and a unique perspective of Kilimanjaro’s beauty.
At Pamoja Kilimanjaro & Safaris, we understand the risks and realities of trekking during this season. While some tour operators avoid offering trips during the rainy months, we do — but only with extra precautions, careful planning, and full transparency. We ensure our clients are properly prepared with the right gear, experienced guides, and flexible itineraries to handle changing weather conditions. Safety remains our top priority.
Although conditions are tougher and summit success rates may be slightly lower, climbing Kilimanjaro in the rainy season can still be a rewarding experience for well-prepared and adventurous trekkers. The lush scenery, reduced crowds, and discounted rates make it a unique time to experience the mountain.
If you're considering a rainy season climb, contact us to learn more — we’ll help you decide if it's the right choice for you and ensure you’re fully equipped for the journey.
---

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.
---

November

November marks the short rainy season on Mount Kilimanjaro. During this time, climbers can expect muddy trails, reduced visibility, and slippery terrain, similar to conditions in April and May. While these factors make the trek more challenging, fewer crowds and the chance to see snow-covered landscapes offer a unique and peaceful experience on the mountain.
Although November is considered a less popular month to climb, it is still possible and rewarding—with proper preparation and experienced support. At Pamoja Kilimanjaro & Safaris , we do offer treks during this season, ensuring that every climb is conducted with strict safety standards, high-quality equipment, and skilled guides who are well-trained for wet-season conditions.
Our team carefully monitors weather patterns and adjusts plans as needed to prioritize your safety and comfort. We use waterproof gear, appropriate clothing, and route-specific strategies to minimize risk and maximize the experience.
If you’re seeking a quieter trail, dramatic scenery, and are prepared for a more rugged adventure, a November climb can be an unforgettable journey—with the right guidance. At Pamoja Kilimanjaro & Safaris , we are committed to making your climb safe, supported, and successful—no matter the season.
---

Summary & Recommendation

Mount Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but the best time to trek depends on what kind of experience you're looking for.
For the best weather, highest success rates, and most comfortable conditions, we recommend climbing during the dry seasons—from June to October and December to March. These periods offer clearer skies, more stable conditions, and breathtaking views from the summit. June to October is the most popular time, while December to March provides great conditions with fewer crowds.
For those seeking a quieter, more adventurous trek, the rainy seasons in April–May and November offer a different kind of experience—lush landscapes, fewer climbers, and a unique view of Kilimanjaro. While conditions are more challenging due to rain, mud, and limited visibility, it is still possible to climb safely with proper gear, preparation, and expert guidance.
At Pamoja Kilimanjaro & Safaris, we offer climbs throughout the year, with extra precautions during the rainy seasons. Our high summit success rate (over 95%) is a result of our experienced guides, carefully planned itineraries with acclimatization days, and commitment to climber safety.