When is the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro?

We generally advise that the best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the warmest and driest times of year, from December to mid-March and mid-June to the end of October. However, although these are considered to be the best times to climb the mountain in terms of weather, they are also the busiest months.

Mount Kilimanjaro’s proximity to the equator, this region does not experience the extremes of winter and summer weather, but rather dry and wet seasons. Therefore, the best time to climb Kilimanjaro tends to be the warmest and driest months (see weather on Kilimanjaro).

The primary concerning is safety, as the risks associated with climbing increase significantly when the weather is foul. The effects of rain, mud, snow, ice and cold can be very strenuous on the body. Correspondingly, your chances of a successful summit also increases significantly with nice weather. Of course, the mountain gets more foot traffic during these periods as well.

Can a beginner climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is suitable for beginners; they do very well. The best advice is for everyone to arrive in great shape. Don’t underestimate the climb because you know someone did it who you believe was not fit.

Can an unfit person climb Kilimanjaro?

You want to be in good physical shape to climb Kilimanjaro, but there’s no need to be super-fit. This is a trek, not a climb after all, and if you can run for 30 minutes two to three times a week, and enjoy an all day hike at weekends, you should be fine. That said, many people do underestimate Kili.

Who should not climb Kilimanjaro?

People With Poor Physical Fitness: While fitness levels vary among individuals, it’s important to recognize that Mt. Kilimanjaro is a strenuous climb. It requires days of hiking up the mountain under extreme conditions, so those who are not fit enough to endure such an experience should not attempt it.

When not to climb Kilimanjaro?

The long rainy season starts at the end of March and continues through to early June. We do not recommend climbing Kilimanjaro during this time, as the trails can be very wet, muddy and snowy. Climbing in the rain is likely to be less enjoyable and means you’ll miss out on the spectacular views and photo opportunities.

What is the danger of Kilimanjaro?

The main risks are altitude sickness, accidents, inclement weather, and rockfall.

What is the hardest part of climbing Kilimanjaro?

Barranco Wall is really steep

This is the steepest section of any Kilimanjaro route by far, and requires some scrambling. You only tackle Barranco Wall on the Shira, Lemosho, Machame and Umbwe routes. If you’re not keen for this steep climb, we recommend climbing the Northern Circuit, Rongai or Marangu route.

Why is Kilimanjaro so expensive?

Several factors affect the cost of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, including the type of Kilimanjaro operator, food, accommodation, guides, porters, longer routes, and high-altitude hiking gear. In addition, Kilimanjaro National Park fees and airfares can also add to your trip cost for the Kilimanjaro trek.

Summit During a Full Moon

Some climbers prefer to summit during a full moon.

When the peak of Kilimanjaro and magnificent glaciers are lit up by the full moon, the view is absolutely stunning. For this reason alone, some climbers schedule their trek to coincide with this celestial event, occurring once a month. However, a practical reason for climbing at these times is that a bright moon along with a clear sky will improve your visibility throughout your climb, and most importantly, during the summit attempt. Below are full moon dates:

Kilimanjaro Full moon and weather, Firstly you’ll be accompanied and guided in your night-time trek by the bright light of the full moon. It illuminates your six-hour journey up to Uhuru Peak, making the glaciers glitter and the rolling clouds below you glow. The moonlight also makes the earth beneath your feet glisten. Sounds like a dream, right?

Secondly, a practical reason for climbing during a full moon is that its brightness (when paired with a clear sky) improves visibility throughout your Kilimanjaro trek, especially during your summit attempt.

Thirdly, climbing Kilimanjaro during a full moon offers you magnificent night views of Kibo from most of the overnight camps. So to summarize, a full moon offers:

stunning views
improved visibility during summit attempt
views of Kibo from most camps

A full moon therefore makes what’s already a very special trip just that little bit more special. The full moon is widely considered one of the best times in the month to climb Kilimanjaro. As to which month is the best month to climb?

Kilimanjaro Full Moon Dates 2023, 2024

Month	Year 2023	Year 2024
January	28th	17th
February	27th	16th
March	28th	18th
April	27th	16th
May	26th	15th
June	24th	14th
July	24th	13th
August	22nd	11th
September	21st	10th
October	20th	9th
November	19th	8th
December	19th	7th