The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the two dry seasons: January to early March, and June to October. Clear skies, good visibility and more stable trails make these months ideal for summiting. Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but some months are far better than others.

January to March

These months offer mostly dry, sunny mornings and excellent visibility, with occasional snow near the summit for spectacular photos. Considered a slightly quieter peak season, it strikes a great balance between good weather and thinner crowds.

June to October

This is the main climbing season, combining reliable weather with the northern-hemisphere summer holidays. July and August are the busiest months; June, September and October are excellent if you prefer fewer people and don’t mind the occasional shower. Routes like Marangu and Machame are busiest around the full moon.

Months to avoid

The long rains of April and May bring muddy trails, cloud and poor visibility, while November’s short rains make trails slippery. We generally advise against climbing in April, May and November. If you do trek in the shoulder months, the quieter Rongai or Northern Circuit routes on the drier northern side are the better choice.