Climb the Kilimanjaro
The Kilimanjaro with its 5895 meters (19340 ft) is the roof of Africa. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a crazy experience and if you like adventure it’s an absolute must for the bucket list.
Mount Kilimanjaro Weather in May
Mount Kilimanjaro in May sees pleasant daytime temperatures of 21°C (70°F) and nighttime lows of 13°C (55°F). As part of the rainy season, showers are frequent and often heavy. Budget around 297 mm (12 in) of rainfall for the month.
Rainfall in Mount Kilimanjaro in May
As part of the rainy season, Mount Kilimanjaro sees around 17 days of rain in May, with an average of 297 mm (12 in). Rainy season showers here are typically intense, often clearing quickly but coming down hard while they last.
Temperature in Mount Kilimanjaro in May
Daytime highs in Mount Kilimanjaro in May reach 21°C (70°F), with nights around 13°C (55°F). The difference between afternoon and evening temperatures is usually noticeable. With overnight lows of 13°C (55°F), evenings can feel noticeably cooler than the daytime. An extra layer is a good idea, though the cool air makes for a good night's sleep.If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, May may not be the ideal month to visit Mount Kilimanjaro. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
Mount Kilimanjaro Temperature in May
Min Temperature
13°C (55°F)
Max Temperature
21°C (70°F)
Chance of Rain
57%
Precipitation
297 mm (12 in)
Rainy days
17 days
Mount Kilimanjaro Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Mount Kilimanjaro - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
44-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Mount Kilimanjaro typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 21°C (70°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows typically ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 19°C (66°F).
Average temperatures in May
Daily Historical Precipitation
44-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in May
Historical weather records for Mount Kilimanjaro in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Mount Kilimanjaro spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Mount Kilimanjaro historical weather extremes in May
Based on weather observations in Mount Kilimanjaro between 2004 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes during May.
- The hottest May day on record in Mount Kilimanjaro reached 32°C (90°F) (May 4, 2009).
- On May 6, 2010, Mount Kilimanjaro saw its coldest May day with temperatures maxing out at 18°C (64°F).
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to 5°C (41°F) on May 27, 2026, marking the coldest May night on record.
- The wettest May day on record brought 94 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation to Mount Kilimanjaro (May 2, 2010).
Best Places in Tanzania in May
Find out more about the weather in Tanzania and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Tanzania in May →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
What to Wear in Mount Kilimanjaro in May
For Mount Kilimanjaro in May, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can.
What To Do in Mount Kilimanjaro in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Camping6/10
Mount Kilimanjaro 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Mount Kilimanjaro
See the full Mount Kilimanjaro climate overview or explore weather in Tanzania.
Popular in May
Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Dar es Salaam
30°C (86°F) Zanzibar City
29°C (84°F) Bwejuu29°C (84°F) Matemwe29°C (84°F) Paje29°C (84°F) Jambiani29°C (84°F) Nungwi29°C (84°F) Moshi24°C (75°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Climb the Kilimanjaro
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Walk Safari In the Selous Game Reserve
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