Kilimanjaro Weather – Temperatures, Climate Zones and More
Information on the Climate of Kilimanjaro, Including Temperatures, Climate Zones, and Other Relevant Details
Forecast for Mt Kilimanjaro Weather
What is Mount Kilimanjaro Weather like?
Mount Kilimanjaro experiences day-to-day temperature swings ranging from hot to cold, but these are minor compared to those that occur over the year. Kilimanjaro’s temperature is determined by its elevation and time of day, not by the weather.
Temperatures range from 21 to 27 °C on the mountain’s base to 20 to -20 °F at Uhuru Peak’s summit (-7 to -29 degrees Celsius). There’s no way to predict the Kilimanjaro weather or any other enormous mountain because it generates its own. Rain, wind, and even snow are possible conditions that hikers must be prepared for.
Even though the “dry” season is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro, rain and snow can occur at any time. As altitude increases, you may be hiking in the sweltering sun one minute and bundled up against a chilling breeze the next.
With a height of 5,895 meters, the pattern of Kilimanjaro weather can develop itself. Because of its equator’s location, the trade winds “monsoons” are diverted away from the ocean by the mountain. Snow and rainfall result from this, as the wind rushes up the mountainside and cools.
Is there snow on Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit?
The southeast trade winds cause the long wet season between March and May. The Indian Ocean’s southerly moist breezes bring rain and snow to the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, while the mountain’s summit is covered in snow. Southern hills receive the most precipitation during this season.
A northeasterly dry breeze is to blame for the “short rainfall” in November. Because the rain hasn’t traveled across the ocean, it’s weaker and shorter than it would be during more extensive downpours. The northern slopes have received the bulk of the season’s rain.
Mount Kilimanjaro Weather
Mount Kilimanjaro does not see significant seasonal temperature variations because of its proximity to the equator. Temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro are determined by the mountain’s elevation and the time of day, not by the weather. Mount Kilimanjaro’s ascent begins at its southern base, where temperatures often range from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 27 degrees Celsius). Passing through each of the mountain’s five natural zones lowers the temperature.
Temperatures at Kilimanjaro’s highest point, Uhuru Peak, can fall as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit at night (-7 to -29 degrees Celsius). If you don’t have the proper gear, you may be stranded on a rainy or freezing night. Get a better idea of what to take in your daypack for Kilimanjaro.
Altitudes of Kilimanjaro in Diverse Climate Zones
As you ascend, Kilimanjaro Tanzania weather will change as you cross different climate zones.
The Zone of Production or Cultivation Zone: A height range of 2,600 to 6,000 feet with a possible downpour of 20 to 70inch.
An agricultural zone surrounds Mount Kilimanjaro’s base. Due to the rich volcanic soil, this area receives a lot of rain each year and is mainly agricultural. Your route will take you primarily through this area, where the Kilimanjaro summit weather is often pleasant.
The Forestry Zone: A height range of 6,000 to 9,200 feet with possible rainfall of 79 to 40 inches.
We begin our ascent in the tropical montane forest, which receives most of the mountain’s precipitation and transforms it into underground streams and springs. It’s usually warm and moist under the deep canopy, with mists accumulating. The ground can be muddy with a dense cloud cover present.
The Moorland or Heath Zone: A height range of 9,200 to 13,200 feet with possible showers of 51 to 21 inches.
After a forest trek, you’ll find yourself in the Heath and Moorland Zone. As the lush equatorial grove gives a pathway to soaring grasses and huge heaters, you’ll be better exposed to rain and wind.
Temperatures might remain mild throughout the day but plummet sharply at night. The weather on Mt Kilimanjaro improves, the trails are dryer, and trekking becomes more enjoyable. Even though the mountain rarely sees much precipitation, it can fall almost anywhere when it does.
You’ll need sunscreen to protect your skin from harsh sunlight and freezing temperatures.
The High Desert or Alpine Zone: With a height range of 13,200 to 16,500 ft. in elevation and possible precipitation of 10 inches.
To get to the High Desert Zone, we’ll have to climb higher, where wind speeds are increasing, and rainfall is limited. Only harsh, little plants can survive at this height.
Even if the daytime temperatures are mild, the mercury plunges dramatically at night, resulting in much colder weather Kilimanjaro conditions. Campers often reach high above the clouds when the bright sky and the stars are out.
The views are breathtaking, but the paths are dustier, and the air is much thinner.
The Arctic Zone: Located at the height range of 16,500feet and above with possible drizzle of 4-inch expected.
The Arctic, or “Summit Zone,” is found at elevations of more than 16,000 feet. Very little rain occurs in this arid desert, characterized by massive outcroppings of volcanic sandstone, volcanic scree, and glaciers (most drizzle falls as snow).
At this “high altitude,” only around 49 percent of the oxygen is found at sea level. Inhospitable and desolate, this area is.
Gale-force winds whip over the area, and the overnight lows dip well below freezing. Temperatures can drop as low as minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit, and the sun’s rays can be brutal.
The dry air Kilimanjaro weather will quickly dehydrate you, so be sure to use sunscreen on any exposed skin. You’ll also need warm clothing to keep your body temperature stable.
You may learn more about Kilimanjaro’s elevation by visiting this page.
Temperature Changes in Kilimanjaro’s Environment
The temperature on Kilimanjaro changes with the season; the rainiest months on the mountain are April and May, while the driest months are June through October. January through March is known to be the coldest of the year.
The Weather on Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro weather forecast – Daily Predictions for the weather Mt Kilimanjaro
Monday: 84°F63°F with partly cloudy skies.
Tuesday: 84°F57°F with more sun than clouds.
Wednesday: 82°F59°F with more clouds than sun.
Thursday: 88°F59°F with times of sun and clouds.
Friday: 81°F63°F with the chance of light rain in the morning.
Saturday: 77°F59°F with chances of light rain in the morning.
Sunday: 79°F57°F with more sun than clouds.
Weather forecast Kilimanjaro – Monthly Mount Kilimanjaro Conditions
The long dry season runs from June through September: Climbing the mountain during the long dry season is a great idea. Compared to the warm, dry months of January and February, the current weather in Mt Kilimanjaro is mild with little chance of precipitation.
The brief period of rain falling from October through December: A small amount of rain falls during October and December. The timing is less predictable in this season than during the long rains. Climbing in the rain is discouraged.
The Brief Dry Season of January to February: Kilimanjaro treks are prevalent during this time. Late January and early February are typically warmer than June and October. It does, however, fluctuate yearly.
March through May is the wettest month of the year: The long rains begin at the end of March when the Indian Ocean trade winds contact the mountain. We do not provide climbs during this time of year since the trails can become dangerous due to heavy rain.
Mt Kilimanjaro Weather by Month
Check out this summary with all the information you need about the Kilimanjaro weather by month.
Kilimanjaro Weather in January
January is a popular month to climb Kilimanjaro, and it falls during the short dry season. During this time, the Kilimanjaro January weather is generally warm and dry, making it a favorable time for climbing. However, the temperatures can vary significantly based on the altitude.
At the base of the mountain, the temperatures of the Mount Kilimanjaro weather January can be as high as 25°C (77°F) during the day and drop to around 10°C (50°F) at night. As you climb higher, the temperatures gradually decrease, and at the summit, the Kilimanjaro weather January can fall to as low as -7°C (19°F).
Kilimanjaro Weather in February
February is also a popular month to climb Kilimanjaro, and it falls during the short dry season, just like January. The conditions of the Kilimanjaro weather in February are similar to those in January, with warm and dry weather prevailing across most of the mountain.
During the day, the Kilimanjaro weather February temperatures can be as high as 23°C (73°F) at the base of the mountain, and around 0°C (32°F) at the summit. At night, the temperatures can drop to as low as -6°C (21°F) at the summit, so it’s essential to pack warm clothing to cope with the colder temperatures at higher elevations.
In terms of precipitation, the weather in Kilimanjaro in February is still relatively dry, with minimal rainfall throughout the month. However, it’s important to note that the Kilimanjaro February weather can be unpredictable, and climbers should always be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially at higher elevations where the weather can change rapidly.
Kilimanjaro Weather in March
March is the end of the short dry season in Kilimanjaro, and the Kilimanjaro weather March can be quite unpredictable. While it’s still generally a good time to climb, there is an increased chance of rain and clouds, particularly towards the end of the month.
Just like in February, the temperatures at the base of the mountain can be as high as 23°C (73°F) during the day. As you climb higher, temperatures can drop to around -6°C (21°F) at the summit. At night, temperatures can fall even lower.
Kilimanjaro Weather in April
April is considered the peak of the long rainy season in Kilimanjaro, and climbing during this month can be challenging due to the heavy rainfall and the increased risk of mudslides and flooding.
During the day, temperatures can reach up to 22°C (72°F) at the base of the mountain, but they drop to around -5°C (23°F) at the summit.
April is one of the wettest months in Kilimanjaro, and climbers should expect frequent rain showers throughout the day, particularly in the afternoons.
Kilimanjaro Weather in May
May marks the end of the long rainy season in Kilimanjaro, and the weather begins to improve towards the end of the month. While it’s still possible to experience some rain, the frequency and intensity of the rainfall reduce significantly compared to April.
During the day, temperatures can be as high as 21°C (70°F) at the base of the mountain and drop to around -5°C (23°F) at the summit.
Kilimanjaro Weather in June
June is the start of the peak season for climbing Kilimanjaro, and it falls during the dry season. The Kilimanjaro June weather is generally pleasant, with mild temperatures and clear skies, making it an ideal time to climb the mountain.
The Kilimanjaro weather June is similar to the weather in May in terms of temperature. During the day, temperatures can be as high as 21°C (70°F) at the base of the mountain and drop to around -5°C (23°F) at the summit.
Kilimanjaro Weather in July
July is also part of the peak season for climbing Kilimanjaro. The Kilimanjaro July weather showcases mild temperatures and clear skies. During the day, temperatures can be as high as 20°C (68°F) at the base of the mountain and drop to around -7°C (19°F) at the summit.
The peak season in Kilimanjaro means that the trails can be more crowded, and climbers should book their climb well in advance to secure permits and accommodations.
Kilimanjaro Weather in August
August is still part of the peak season for climbing Kilimanjaro. Just like July, the Kilimanjaro weather August is pleasant, with clear skies and mild temperatures.
The weather in Kilimanjaro in August showcases temperatures as high as 20°C (68°F) at the base of the mountain and -7°C (19°F) at the summit.
Kilimanjaro Weather in September
Still part of the dry season, the Kilimanjaro weather September is pleasant.
During the day, temperatures can be as high as 20°C (68°F) at the base of the mountain and drop to around -7°C (19°F) at the summit.
The Kilimanjaro September weather is the driest in Kilimanjaro, and climbers can expect minimal rainfall throughout the month. The skies are generally clear, and the visibility is excellent, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Kilimanjaro Weather in October
October is a transition month between the dry season and the short rainy season in Kilimanjaro. The Kilimanjaro weather October can be unpredictable, with a mix of sunny days and occasional rain showers.
During the day, temperatures can be as high as 19°C (66°F) at the base of the mountain and drop to around -6°C (21°F) at the summit. At night, temperatures can fall even lower.
Kilimanjaro weather November
November is considered part of the short rainy season in Kilimanjaro. Just like October, the weather can be unpredictable, with a mix of sunny days and occasional rain showers.
During the day, temperatures can be as high as 18°C (64°F) at the base of the mountain and drop to around -6°C (21°F) at the summit.
Kilimanjaro Weather in December
December is generally a wetter month than the preceding months, and climbers should expect rain showers and potentially muddy trails. The Kilimanjaro December weather is also unpredictable.
During the day, the Kilimanjaro weather December temperatures can be as high as 18°C (64°F) at the base of the mountain and drop to around -6°C (21°F) at the summit.
Situations on the Summit of Kilimanjaro
Hikers typically begin their journey to the summit after midnight. Snow or ice frequently covers the trail, making it highly chilly. As we make our way to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, we hope to catch a glimpse of Mawenzi and the African plains as the sun rises. On a typical night at Uhuru Point, the temperature drops to around -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-29 to -7 degrees Celsius). The weather at Mt Kilimanjaro is generated due to its enormous height.
You can learn more about Kilimanjaro’s route conditions, sleeping on the top, and the best time of year to climb the mountain.
Current Weather on Mount Kilimanjaro – Resources
If you’re planning on visiting Mount Kilimanjaro and take one of the different routes to the peak, then know about Kilimanjaro current weather is a must.
There are multiple resources travelers can use to learn about the current weather on Mt Kilimanjaro.
Here’s a short list of the most useful resources:
- Current weather Kilimanjaro
- Kilimanjaro airport weather
- Kilimanjaro summit weather forecast 14 days
- Kilimanjaro weather now
- Kilimanjaro peak weather
- Kilimanjaro weather today
For more information on the weather click here!
