Mount Kilimanjaro is a marvel in its own right. Located in tropical Tanzania, it surprises many with glaciers at its summit. While Tanzania Safaris introduces travellers to the wild heart of Africa, Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro offers an entirely different adventure. This dormant volcano is not only Africa's tallest peak but also one of the world's most approachable high summits.Beyond its height and icy cap, Kilimanjaro hides a world of wonders that attracts both expert mountaineers and those new to the thrill of mountain climbing. From dense forests with secretive wildlife to high-altitude zones with rare plants like giant groundsels, Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is like journeying through the Earth's vibrant chapters of natural history.

At Safari in Tanzania, we believe in taking you on this journey of unparalleled views and mesmerizing landscapes through our Kilimanjaro Tours. Let’s begin your epic ascent!

All About Kilimanjaro Routes

6 Days Umbwe Route

Umbwe is a short route, providing challenges as it is very difficult to climb due to its steepness.

8 Days Lemosho Route

This route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the west. It offers a chance to visit Shira Plateau (Cathedral peak)

7 Days Rongai Route

This is one of Kilimanjaro’s easiest routes, and it has become an increasingly popular route in recent years.

7 Days Machame Route

Machame Route, also known as the Whiskey route, has become very popular.

6 Days Marangu Route

It is known as “Coca-Cola” route, Marangu approaches Kilimanjaro from the southeast of the Mountain.

7 Days Shira Route

SHIRA Route is probably the most frequented route to Mt.

Why We Love To Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

  • The experience of ascending Kilimanjaro is unmatched, offering diverse terrains from lush rainforests to alpine deserts.
  • The sense of achievement, standing atop Africa's highest peak, is genuinely refreshing.
  • Climbing Kilimanjaro is a journey of self-discovery, where each step challenges and rewards in equal measure.
  • The local communities and guides add a rich cultural dimension to the experience.

Month-By-Month Guide For The Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro

Start the year by trekking up Kilimanjaro during one of its warmest periods. Expect clear skies during mornings and evenings, perfect for enjoying sunrise or sunset views. Afternoons can bring clouds, and occasional rains may appear.

Like January, February offers warm climbing conditions with mostly clear mornings and evenings. This is a popular time, so anticipate encountering other enthusiastic climbers on your journey.

The onset of the long rainy season begins towards the end of March. Climbing can be challenging due to wet, muddy, and occasionally snowy trails. It might be a choice for those who prefer solitude and a snow-capped summit, albeit with added challenges.

As the heart of the rainy season, April has heavy downpours, making trails quite slippery. While the wetness could deter many, the serene tranquillity and snow-capped views can be a unique reward for some brave souls.

Still, within the rainy season, May sees the continuation of wet and muddy trails. The advantage is the mountain’s serene environment, where climbers can enjoy peace and solitude away from the crowds.

A transitional month, June witnesses the shift from the rainy to the dry season. Though drier than the preceding months, anticipate cold temperatures and potential cloud cover, obscuring the breathtaking views..

From July, Kilimanjaro experiences colder yet drier conditions. The possibility of rain exists, especially in the rainforest section, but showers are typically sparse and infrequent. Clear skies dominate, making for splendid vistas.

August maintains the cold but dry trend, ideal for those seeking clear panoramic sights of the vast Tanzanian landscapes. Popular among climbers, anticipate meeting fellow trekkers along the paths and at campsites.

Retaining the conditions of the preceding months, September offers cold but predominantly dry weather. The clear skies and the pleasant trekking conditions make it a favourite month for many climbers.

At the tail end of the dry season, October remains a prime month for climbing, although there’s a slight increase in the likelihood of rainfall as it progresses. Nonetheless, it remains a popular choice for many climbing enthusiasts.

The onset of a brief rainy period starts in November. Climbers can expect occasional afternoon showers, but mornings and evenings remain clear. The trails can be wet and slippery, demanding caution.

The short rains often stretch into December. Despite this, many choose this festive month for their Kilimanjaro expedition, drawn by the challenge and the excitement of concluding their year on Africa's highest peak.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October. These periods offer clearer skies and more predictable weather but are also the busiest. Some also opt for the colder months of July to October for clearer views.

The climb duration varies based on the route chosen. Most treks last between 5 to 9 days. Longer routes, which allow for better acclimatization, have a higher success rate.

No, Mount Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, meaning no ropes, special mountaineering gear, or previous climbing experience is required. However, being in good physical condition and prepared for high-altitude trekking is essential.

Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness can manifest as headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, difficulty sleeping, and loss of appetite. Acclimatizing correctly, ascending slowly, and listening to your body to avoid severe altitude sickness is crucial.

Essential Kilimanjaro Gear List includes waterproof hiking boots, thermal layers, a warm jacket, rain gear, sleeping bags suitable for low temperatures, gloves, hats, sunglasses, sunblock, and a headlamp. While some equipment can be rented locally, bringing personal items that fit well, especially footwear, is recommended.

It's advisable to undergo a health check-up before attempting the climb. Some climbers also take altitude sickness medication (like Diamox) as a precaution, but it's essential to consult a doctor before doing so. Ensure you're up-to-date with vaccinations recommended for Tanzania.

To minimize your ecological footprint on Kilimanjaro, stick to the designated trails to avoid causing soil erosion. Carry all trash out with you, and avoid using single-use plastics. Use biodegradable soaps and toiletries, and minimize water use. Respect the mountain's fragile ecosystems and support eco-friendly tour operators that prioritize sustainable practices.

Our Award-Winning Journeys

We're honored to be recognized as one of the world's best safari outfitters by Travel + Leisure, top travel specialists.

We're honored to be recognized as one of the world's best safari outfitters by Travel + Leisure, top travel specialists.

We're honored to be recognized as one of the world's best safari outfitters by Travel + Leisure, top travel specialists.

We're honored to be recognized as one of the world's best safari outfitters by Travel + Leisure, top travel specialists.

At Safaris in Tanzania, we are deeply honoured to have received prestigious awards that recognize our commitment to providing exceptional safari experiences. These accolades inspire us to continually raise the bar. Additionally, our partnerships with renowned conservation organizations reflect our commitment to wildlife preservation, ensuring that every journey with us contributes to the conservation efforts that make Tanzania's destinations so extraordinary.