Mount Kilimanjaro Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Mount Kilimanjaro.

Climate overview of Mount Kilimanjaro

The Kilimanjaro has two rainy seasons and two dry seasons each year. In the period February-May the Kilimanjaro receives a lot of precipitation, especially in April. Because of the wind direction the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro receive considerably more precipitation than the northern ones. A large part of the precipitation above the treeline consists of snow and hail, the majority later evaporates. Only on the glaciers there is snow year round.

The driest period of the year runs from July to October. A second rainy period follows in November and December, however there is less rainfall in the second rainy season than during the first rainy season. In the month of January a short dry period starts again.

The temperature on the Kilimanjaro decreases considerably as you get higher. While at the foot of the mountain the temperature can rise to above 30°C (86°F) the average temperature at the level of the Kibo crater can be -7°C (19°F) at the same time. Below you can find weather averages from the foot of Kilimanjaro.

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.

Monthly Temperature in Mount Kilimanjaro

In Mount Kilimanjaro temperatures are generally consistent throughout the year. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in February. In July, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a pleasant 20°C (68°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 14°C (57°F) in February to 10°C (50°F) in July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging 3412 mm (134 in) of precipitation annually. Mount Kilimanjaro can be quite wet during April, receiving approximately 594 mm (23 in) of precipitation over 23 rainy days.

In contrast, during the driest month (July), you will experience much drier conditions, with 49 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation spread across 10 rainy days days. For more details, please visit our Mount Kilimanjaro Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Best Time to Visit Mount Kilimanjaro

The best time to visit Mount Kilimanjaro is during June, July, August and September, when the weather provides comfortable temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 22°C (71°F). With rainfall of 49 mm (1.9 in) to 96 mm (3.8 in), you can expect pleasant weather during your visit in these months.

Be prepared for heavier rainfall during January, February, March, April, May, October, November and December, the wettest period of the year.

Wondering where to travel based on your weather preferences? Our recommendation tool helps you find destinations with your ideal climate conditions. Use our weather planner to find your perfect destination.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Mount Kilimanjaro

What is the best time to visit Mount Kilimanjaro?

June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Mount Kilimanjaro. In contrast, January, February, March, April, May, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Mount Kilimanjaro has a distinct rainy season from October to May.

What temperatures can I expect in Mount Kilimanjaro?

Daytime highs range from 20°C (68°F) in July to 24°C (75°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 10°C (50°F) to 14°C (57°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.

How much rain does Mount Kilimanjaro get?

Annual rainfall is around 3412 mm (134 in). April is the wettest month with 594 mm (23 in), while July is the driest with 49 mm (1.9 in).

Mount Kilimanjaro 3-Day Forecast

Mount Kilimanjaro 3-Day Forecast

Mount Kilimanjaro on the map

Mount Kilimanjaro is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.

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