Kilimanjaro Factfile - Climate
from Minus 20 to plus 40 degrees

Equatorial to Arctic conditions are present on Kilimanjaro. Lowlands and even relatively high sheltered valleys can reach temperatures as high as 40 degrees Celsius. Night-time temperatures generally fall below zero and can drop as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius. The rainy seasons are the same as for northern Tanzania and bring rain and snow fall March to May, and occasional short rains during the period late October to late November. The better months for climbing are January and February, with September, October and December generally being good. However it must be noted that Kilimanjaro has a typical montane climate - unpredictable even in the "driest" seasons. A bright clear morning on Shira Plateau can turn to rain and sleet in the afternoon as the hot air rises from the lowland valleys. Then as evening falls the sky clears and a beautiful starlit canopy appears overhead.

The lesson of climate for all Kilimanjaro climbers is to be prepared for high altitude sun that can burn the skin severely; and for cold nights that demand four seasons sleeping bags and good thermal clothing. To venture into this climatic zone without the right equipment is foolhardy and dangerous.