When to go to climb Kilimanjaro

Good seasons to climb are December to March and June to October.

Most mountains will have an unpredictable weather pattern; so it is best to expect extremes of climate whenever you trek up Kilimanjaro.

Normally visibility is best in the January to end of February season because there is less cloud cover over the rain forest and views down from the high slopes to the plains of Africa are less likely to be obscured. 

January through to early March is also an excellent time to go on safari because the great migration of wildebeest, zebra and migratory predators is located in southern Serengeti.  So, if you want to go on safari before or after your climb, then January to February is a  great season to trek on Kilimanjaro.

The next season to consider is June through to October, when weather is normally good.

It's worth considering the phase of the moon when selecting the date of your climb. Aim to have a half to full moon as you go for the summit. You don't need to hit the summit exactly on the day of the full moon. The waxing and waning moon for at least five days either side of full moon gives plenty of light at night. 

Whenever you go you must expect extremes of climate. A typical day on Shira Plateau or at levels above 12000 ft (3600ms) will commence with sub zero temperatures. The sky will be very clear as you get up for breakfast. As the morning progresses temperatures rise markedly and sunburn is to be avoided. Remember that the sun's rays are filtered less the higher you climb; so high factor sun cream is essential. Then in the afternoon, as the heat from the plains far below pushes the moisture from the rain forest up to the higher slopes, you can experience rain, sleet or snow. In the late afternoon the damp air recedes back to the lower slopes and a clear sky at sunset followed by a wonderful star canopy is the norm.