Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking

It is possible to trek Kilimanjaro all-year-round. However, certain months are characterized by colder weather, more rain and potentially loads of snow on the summit. For many climbers this question is almost irrelevant as they will have to fit their climb into whatever dates they can clear from their busy work or family schedules, though for perhaps the majority, this is probably the first question prospective climbers should ask themselves.

With respect to some of the peculiar benefits of climbing during rainy months – albeit, these factors are appreciated by a relative minority – and to the fact that we are generally able to minimize crowding to a very acceptable level at all times of year (with very occasional and unpredictable exceptions), there are really no months that absolutely have to be avoided.

For those who are not wanting to risk finding themselves in crowds at any point on the mountain, and who also wish to avoid the times of year when rain is a near certainty, the following months would usually be considered: January, March, June, and October.
In wet season for a few climbers however, there is an added attraction to climbing during rainy months because:

• There are virtually no crowds on any routes. So even a busy and heavily commercialized route like Machame can be almost empty and one can pretty much have the trail to oneself.
• For some, the idea of climbing Kilimanjaro when the summit is most likely to be snowcapped can feel like a more authentic alpine experience and adds an additional element of challenge to the adventure.

Kilimanjaro Route Selection

Choosing a Kilimanjaro route, which will satisfy your personal requirements as well as contribute towards your eventual summit success, is important. The question is often asked ‘Which is the best Kilimanjaro route?’ But there is not a simple answer that applies to all climbers at all times of year. Misleading information elsewhere on the Internet does however require that we offer what we hope will be a clarifying perspective. 

Factors which should be carefully considered includes:

• Kilimanjaro routes comparison in terms of a of an authentic wilderness experience.
• Kilimanjaro routes distances and trekking costs for each route.
• The Kilimanjaro routes success rates and best possible summit prospects.
• The possibility of additional days for a safer extended acclimatization on each trekking route.