Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro (2025/2026 Season Guide)

Updated for the 2025/2026 climbing season by Macpace Tours & Safaris

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Why Timing Matters for Your Kilimanjaro Climb

Choosing when to climb Kilimanjaro is just as important as picking the right route. The mountain can be climbed year-round, but your experience will differ dramatically depending on the month you choose. Weather patterns, trail conditions, visibility, and crowd levels all shift throughout the year.

In 2025/2026, the classic advice holds true: the best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the two main dry seasons from January to early March, and June to October. But there’s more nuance when it comes to matching the season to your goals, whether you’re chasing clear summit views, fewer crowds, or lush green scenery.

Kilimanjaro Climate at a Glance

Dry seasons: January–early March & June–October → Stable weather, clear skies, comfortable conditions.
Short rains: November → Brief, scattered showers; fewer trekkers.
Long rains: April–May → Heavy rainfall, muddy trails, fewer climbs (Rongai route recommended if attempting).
Temperature: Warm at lower elevations, but summit nights can reach -10°C to -20°C year-round.

Month-by-Month Breakdown for 2025/2026

Month	Weather	Crowds	Scenery	Recommended Routes	Notes
January	Dry, warm days, clear mornings	Moderate	Excellent visibility	Lemosho, Machame	Great for photography; mild nights
February	Similar to January	Moderate–High	Crisp skies, dry trails	Lemosho, Machame, Rongai	Popular; book early
March (early)	Dry start, rains begin late month	Moderate	Clear early; clouds building	Lemosho, Machame	Good for early March departures
April	Long rains peak	Low	Lush greenery	Rongai	Wet, muddy; experienced trekkers only
May	Long rains continue	Very low	Very green, moody skies	Rongai	Quieter but challenging conditions
June	Dry season begins	Moderate	Clear, cool, fresh	Lemosho, Machame, Rongai	Great start-of-season choice
July	Cool, dry, very clear	High	Spectacular summit views	Lemosho, Machame	One of the busiest months
August	Similar to July	High	Stunning scenery	Lemosho, Machame, Rongai	Book in advance
September	Dry, slightly warmer	High	Vibrant landscapes	Lemosho, Machame	Great acclimatization conditions
October	Dry start, showers later	Moderate	Clear early month	Lemosho, Machame	Early Oct ideal
November	Short rains	Low	Green & misty	Rongai	Fewer crowds, more clouds
December	Variable; drier mid–late	Moderate	Festive season climbs	Lemosho, Machame	Book early for holiday period

Once you’ve chosen your climbing season, make sure you have the right gear, here’s our complete Kilimanjaro packing list to prepare you for the journey.

Choosing the Best Time Based on Your Goals

For clear skies & stable weather:
→ January–February or July–September

For fewer crowds but still good weather:
→ June or October

For a quieter, lush, and more adventurous climb:
→ November or late March (expect more clouds)

If you must climb in the rainy season:
→ Choose Rongai Route for its drier northern approach.

If you’re aiming for the summit, see how season choice affects your Kilimanjaro success rate and which routes give you the best chance.

2025/2026 Climbing Season Insights from Macpace Tours

High demand months (Feb, Aug, Sep) are booking earlier than usual, reserve your spot at least 6–8 months in advance.
Shoulder season climbs (June, October) are gaining popularity for their balance of good weather and moderate crowds.
The Rongai Route remains the top choice for rainy season climbs in April, May, and November.

No matter when you climb, altitude awareness is key, read our altitude sickness guide for prevention tips.

Pro Tips for Matching Season & Route

Book early for dry season climbs: especially if you want Lemosho or Machame routes in prime months.
Pack for all conditions: weather can shift rapidly at high altitude, even in the dry season.
Allow flexibility: if your travel dates are fixed, choose the route that best suits the expected weather.
Consider pairing your climb with a safari: June–October is also peak wildlife viewing season in Tanzania.

How Macpace Tours Helps You Choose the Perfect Date

Custom advice on matching your fitness, preferences, and travel schedule to the best route and season.
Accurate weather forecasting from local experts on the ground.
Flexible itinerary options in case weather patterns shift unexpectedly.
Seamless safari add-ons for those climbing in peak wildlife months.

Planning your Kilimanjaro climb for 2025/2026? Let Macpace Tours match your perfect route and season for an unforgettable summit experience. Contact our Kilimanjaro specialists today.