Best time of year to climb Mt Kilimanjaro
You
can climb Kilimanjaro any month of the year, however, you should
consider three main factors in choosing your climb date. First
is the weather, second is how busy the trek will be and third
is the timing of the full moon.
The
weather on any high altitude mountain can be changeable and
unpredictable and Kilimanjaro is no different. Just because
it is the dry season is no guarantee that you will not see rain!!
Generally
though this is a good rule:
January
to March is warmer with only the occasional brief shower.
It is often quieter than the other peak season of June to October,
which coincides with the main school holidays in Europe.
April
and May are the rainy months and generally to be avoided
if possible- of course everyone thinks that so it is quiet
June
to October are also good months to climb but can be a little
colder than January to March. This is the main high season and
therefore busier than at other times.
November
is the time of the short rains and again is generally avoided
as it is also starting to get cold
December
– the short November rains have subsided and it is
now getting clearer and warmer. It is more likely that you will
experience snow at this time of year.
An
important issue often overlooked when planning a climb up Kilimanjaro
is the full moon dates. The summit ascent is nearly always done
overnight and the benefit of a full moon is huge for fantastic
night sky views.
