Weather on Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro has different weather conditions depending on the altitude and season. Since it is a tall, free-standing mountain, the temperature and climate change as you go higher. Here is what you need to know about the weather in Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro Climate Zones

Kilimanjaro has five main climate zones, each with its weather conditions.

1. Cultivation Zone (800m – 1,800m / 2,600ft – 5,900ft)
   • Warm and humid
   • Mostly farmlands and villages
   • Average temperature: 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
2. Rainforest Zone (1,800m – 2,800m / 5,900ft – 9,200ft)
   • Warm and humid with frequent rain
   • Thick forests with wildlife and birds
   • Average temperature: 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F)
3. Moorland Zone (2,800m – 4,000m / 9,200ft – 13,100ft)
   • Cooler with less vegetation
   • Misty and windy, sometimes with light rain
   • Average temperature: 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)
4. Alpine Desert Zone (4,000m – 5,000m / 13,100ft – 16,400ft)
   • Dry with strong sun during the day and cold at night
   • Very little plant life
   • Average temperature: -6°C to 10°C (21°F to 50°F)
5. Arctic Zone (5,000m – 5,895m / 16,400ft – 19,341ft)
   • Freezing temperatures with strong winds
   • Ice and snow with little oxygen
   • Average temperature: -7°C to -20°C (19°F to -4°F)

Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro has two main climbing seasons with good weather:

• January to mid-March – Warm and dry with clear skies.
• June to October – Cooler but mostly dry, best for climbing.

Rainy Seasons

• March to May – Heavy rains, trails are slippery and muddy.
• November to early December – Short rains, not as intense but still wet.

Temperature Changes on Kilimanjaro

• At the base: Warm (25°C to 30°C / 77°F to 86°F)
• Mid-altitudes: Cooler (5°C to 15°C / 41°F to 59°F)
• Summit: Freezing cold (-7°C to -20°C / 19°F to -4°F)

What to Pack for Kilimanjaro

Since the weather changes as you climb, you need to bring the right gear.

• Base Layer: Thermal clothes for warmth
• Mid Layer: Fleece or down jacket
• Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Gloves, Hat, and Sunglasses: To protect from cold and sun
• Hiking Boots: Waterproof with good grip
• Sleeping Bag: Rated for sub-zero temperatures
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Strong UV protection

Conclusion

Kilimanjaro’s weather is unpredictable and changes with altitude. The best time to climb is during the dry seasons for a safer and more comfortable experience. Packing the right clothes and gear is important to stay warm and protected from the elements.