Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro

The short answer

Climb in the long dry season, late June to October, or in the short dry window, mid-December to late February. Those are the periods when the trail is driest, the views are clearest and summit success rates are highest.

Season by season

• January to mid-March - warm and mostly dry, with afternoon cloud building on the mountain. Quiet trails and good conditions.
• Late March to late May - the long rains. Heavy cloud, wet and muddy trails. Most operators cut back departures.
• June to October - the long dry season. Cold nights, crisp mornings and the best visibility. Also the busiest.
• November to early December - the short rains. Brief afternoon showers that clear quickly. Quieter and greener.

Match the season to the route

On the western routes such as Lemosho and Shira, allow an extra day for the forest and plateau approach. Rongai, on the north side, is the driest option in the shoulder months.

A dry forecast does not guarantee a dry climb. Kilimanjaro makes its own weather above 4,000 m, so pack for rain whatever month you choose.

What actually decides the summit

Time on the mountain matters more than timing. Choosing an eight-day route over a five-day route raises your odds more than any weather window, because acclimatisation - not fitness - is what turns most climbers around at Barafu or Kibo.

• Pick a route with at least seven days on the mountain.
• Book early: the best guides fill months ahead in the dry season.
• If you can, arrive a few days before your climb to adjust to the altitude and the pace.