When to Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro
Mount KIlimanjaro
Hiking
Best Times for Mt. Kilimanjaro Climbing
The main trekking seasons on Kilimanjaro correspond with the mountain’s two dry seasons (an imprecise term, the weather being occasionally inclement during these periods too) namely January to mid-March and June to October. Of course you can trek up Kilimanjaro in the rainy season but not only is there a much higher chance of trekking in the rain, the summits of Kibo and Mawenzi are likely to be wreathed in thick cloud too. Indeed, several agencies even suspend their operations in November and December, deciding that any trek up Kilimanjaro is foolhardy at this time and the rewards for the trekkers considerably less. Curiously, however, Christmas and New Year, when the weather is far from perfect, are actually the most popular times for climbing Kilimanjaro.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Which is the best season on Kilimanjaro?
The January-to-March trekking season on Kilimanjaro
As to the relative merits of the two trekking seasons, the differences are small though significant. The January to March season tends to be (slightly) colder and there is a much greater chance of snow on the path at this time. The days, however, are often clearer, with only the occasional brief shower. It is usually an exceptionally beautiful time to climb and is often a little quieter than the other peak season of June to October, which coincides with the main academic holidays in Europe and the West. In this latter season the clouds tend to hang around the tree-line following the heavy rains of March to May. Once above this altitude, however, the skies are blue and brilliant and the chance of precipitation minimal (though still present).
The June-to-October trekking season on Kilimanjaro
Although the June to October season tends to be busier, this is not necessarily a disadvantage. For example, if you are travelling independently to Tanzania but wish, for the sake of companionship or simply to cut down on costs, to join up with other travellers for your Kilimanjaro trek, then the high visitor numbers in the June-October peak season will give you the best chance of doing this.
While if you do crave solitude when you walk, it can still be found on the mountain during this peak season. The trails are long, so you can always find vast gaps between trekkers to allow you to walk in peace; some of the routes – Rongai, for example, or the two trails across the Shira Plateau – almost never have more than one or two trekking groups on them at any one time, and are often completely deserted.
And besides, Kilimanjaro is just so huge that its presence will dwarf your fellow trekkers to the point where they become, if you wish them to be, quite unnoticeable.
Snapshots from Our Tour Experiences
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Henry F2025-01-03An Unforgettable Journey to Uhuru Peak Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the 6-day Marangu Route on November was a life-changing experience, and I have nothing but gratitude for the amazing team that made it possible.A big thank you to Manase for arranging every detail so seamlessly—from the airport pick-up to the comfortable hotel stay in Moshi and the excellent mountain food supply. The mountain crew was not only professional but also full of life, bringing joy and laughter to every step of the journey.Special thanks to my guide, Michael, whose expertise, encouragement, and care ensured I reached Uhuru Peak safely. His support made all the difference in conquering this incredible challenge.This trip was unforgettable, and I truly appreciate everyone who contributed to making it so memorable. I hope to return someday and relive this extraordinary adventure!Verified
Maya N2024-12-23Unforgettable Kilimanjaro Climb Lemosho route with Golden Bamboo Tours I had an amazing experience climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho route in October with Golden Bamboo Tours. From the start, the planning and arrangements for the trip were seamless. We stayed at a comfortable 3-star hotel in Moshi Town, where the team made sure everything was in place for the climb. On the arrival day, the guides meticulously checked all our trekking and camping gear to ensure everything was ready, followed by a detailed briefing about the Lemosho route.Once on the mountain, the team’s support was outstanding. Their singing and dancing kept us motivated and energized throughout the journey. Our chef, Joseph, prepared delicious meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—providing us with the energy we needed each day.Our guides, Deo, Ibrahim, and Jackson, were exceptional. They led us at a steady "polepole" (slowly, slowly) pace, offering valuable insights about the Lemosho route and the mountain. Their expertise and encouragement made a huge difference in helping us achieve our goal.A big thank you to the entire team for their unwavering support, and a special mention to Mr. Lyimo for the excellent trip preparation and organization from our arrival in Tanzania to our departure.I highly recommend Golden Bamboo Tours to anyone planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro—it was truly an unforgettable experience!Verified
Luisa B2024-12-16Family trip of a lifetime Our family trip in November 2024 was unforgettable! From the smooth airport pick-up to the incredible wildlife experiences, everything went perfectly. Our driver was wonderful with our two young boys, ensuring they were comfortable and happy throughout the trip. We were able to see all the amazing animals we hoped for, and the whole journey felt safe and well-planned. It truly was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and we are so grateful to Golden Bamboo Tours for making it all happen!Verified
Eddah M2024-11-27Serengeti and Ngorongoro Gate Away In February 2024, I had an unforgettable experience exploring Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater with Golden Bamboo Tours led by the exceptional Mr. Mboya. His deep knowledge of the wildlife, landscapes, and culture enriched every moment of the trip. From spotting the Big Five to witnessing breathtaking sunrises and the wildebeest migration, every detail was expertly handled. Mr. Mboya’s passion and professionalism made this journey truly remarkable. I highly recommend Golden Bamboo Tours for anyone seeking a seamless and inspiring safari adventure!Verified
Vicent G2024-11-24Amazing experience with Golden Bamboo Tours and Safari Amazing Experience with Golden Bamboo Tours and Safari⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐My friends and I had an unforgettable trip to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater with Golden Bamboo Tours and Safari. The entire journey was perfectly organized, and our guide made it even better with his knowledge and enthusiasm.We saw the Big Five, witnessed the Great Migration, and enjoyed breathtaking landscapes. The Ngorongoro Crater felt like stepping into a wildlife paradise, while the Serengeti’s endless plains left us in awe.Traveling with friends and sharing these magical moments made it even more special. Thanks to Golden Bamboo, everything ran smoothly, and we’ll cherish these memories forever! Highly recommend!Verified
Sonal Gohil2024-10-21Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater visits Overall a good experience. The service was exceptional and all our needs and wants and special foods were catered for. Highly recommend.Verified
Oliver R2023-12-12THE BEST TOUR AGENCY FOR KILIMANJARO TREKKING AND WILDLIFE SAFARIES This was the first time I had travelled with Mr Lyimo . The company specialises in expert-led cultural and wildlife tours in Tanzania East Africa. Group numbers are small, accommodation at the hotel in Moshi Kilimajaro was comfortable and food excellent. The expert mountain and safari guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging and entertaining. The itinerary for 6 days Climbing Kilimanjaro and 5 Days wildlife safari was very well thought out, combining leisure time with activity and not-to-be-missed opportunities to swim in the Kikuletwa Hot springs ( Maji Moto) . The client is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational holiday with fine food - they will deliver!Thanks Mr Lyimo for your good arrangement.VerifiedTRAVEL J2023-11-09KILIMANJARO TREKKING , MATERUNI WATERFALLS,KIKULETWA HOTSPRINGS AND WILDLIFE SAFARI We booked a trip to Tanzania East Africa with Mr. Mboya the owner of Golden bamboo tours is the best corporate travel agent i have everworked with ..From a customer experience perspective, hes service is superlative.. He is the most responsive agent i have ever worked with 10 years, and he makes every transaction 100% stress free.This trip was incredible ,from day one our tour guide was amaizing. caring and very knowledgeable ..the hotel and food was good .actual your was also incredible.. Thank Mr Mboya , Lyimo And everyone who made possible this unforgettable experience.Verified
Mary M2023-08-025 DAYS LUXURY LODGE SAFARI AND DAY HIKKING MATERUNI WATERFALL AND CHEMKA The. Trip was very well organised and everything went to plan..We enjoyed the site'sThe first hotel was very basic but very friendly and helpful..The hotel had very friendly staff and lovely room.. Abdi, Exaud, was a great guide, genuinely loved his country and interested in its history.He was very courteous,considerate and informative throughout our travels..he appeared very well read and informed on current affairs generally with a good command of English..Our trip to Tanzania was amazing!This was our first trip to Tanzania and it been the best trip in our life..All thanks to the local agent in partnership with Abdi in Tanzania.....Excellent recommendations and customer service,Verified
Pinary T2023-07-256days Mount Kilimanjaro trekking via Marangu route and Coffee tour at Materuni village.. Thank you Godliving for making the Tanzania trip a wonderful Mount Kilimanjaro trekking experience for us. We had absolutely great time and the hotels were Salinero to stay at. The hotels were is located outside the city and were very easy to commute around. Despite the time difference, you helped us with all the queries and there were no hiccups throughout our trip. We are sure will come back to travel Tanzania East Africa and take your help in the future to book our trips. A big thanks to you once again. wishing you the best. .....