Climbing to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredible journey that requires careful planning. Knowing the best season to trek is essential to achieving your goal of reaching the highest peak in Africa. In this article, we explore when to climb Kilimanjaro and the best season to trek.
When to Climb Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, can be climbed year-round, although the optimum time to go is during the “dry” season, when weather conditions are the most favorable. The dry season usually lasts from late June to early October, with August and September generally considered the best months for climbing. During this time, temperatures are cooler and the air is less humid, providing ideal trekking conditions.
The wet season in Tanzania is from late November to late May, and is best avoided for climbing Kilimanjaro. Rainfall during this season can make the trails muddy and slippery, increasing the risk of injury and potentially preventing you from reaching the summit.
Best Season to Trek
When planning your Kilimanjaro climb, it’s important to take into account the temperatures at different times during the year. The warmest months are January and February, when temperatures can reach up to 25°C/77°F at the base of the mountain and decrease by 10°C/18°F with every 1,000 meters of elevation.
Conversely, the coldest months are June and July, when temperatures can drop to -18°C/-0.4°F at the summit and require climbers to bring winter gear such as insulated boots, gloves and a warm sleeping bag.
Overall, the best season to trek Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is minimal.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a life-changing experience that requires careful planning. Knowing when to climb Kilimanjaro and the best season to trek is essential to ensuring a successful and safe journey. The dry season from late June to early October provides the best trekking conditions when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is minimal.
