Kilimanjaro weather

What Is the Weather Like on Mount Kilimanjaro?

The weather on Mount Kilimanjaro is a world of contrasts. From the base to the summit, you can experience everything from scorching heat to freezing cold—sometimes all in one day. While the mountain doesn’t undergo drastic seasonal temperature changes, the weather is highly influenced by altitude and time of day, making it unpredictable and challenging to navigate.

At the mountain’s base,   (70°F to 80°F), but as you ascend toward the peak, conditions can drastically change. Near Uhuru Peak, the summit, nighttime temperatures can plummet to -7°C to -29°C (20°F to -20°F). Kilimanjaro, standing at 19,341 feet, is powerful enough to generate its own weather systems, creating dramatic shifts in temperature, wind, and precipitation.

The mountain’s location on the equator means it is affected by the trade winds. These winds, which draw moisture from the ocean, are forced upward by Kilimanjaro’s imposing presence, bringing rain and even snow to the summit. Kilimanjaro’s weather can vary widely even within a single day—hikers may face bright sunshine one moment and then be hit by bitter winds or even snowstorms shortly after.

Daily accurate mount Kilimanjaro weather by Mount weather forecast

Is There Snow on Kilimanjaro?

Yes, snow is a defining feature at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The long rainy season from March to May, driven by winds from the Indian Ocean, brings snow to the peak while the lower slopes receive abundant rain. During this season, the southern slopes tend to receive the heaviest rainfall. The shorter rains in November, caused by winds from the northeast, are less intense, mainly affecting the northern slopes.

Despite these seasonal trends, snow and rain are possible year-round, especially as you approach the summit.

Temperature Trends Across Kilimanjaro’s Climate Zones

Mount Kilimanjaro is a microcosm of the world’s climates, divided into distinct ecological zones, each offering different weather conditions.

1. Cultivation Zone
– Altitude: 2,600 to 6,000 ft (800 to 1,800 m)
– Precipitation: 20 to 70 inches (500 to 1,800 mm)
The base of the mountain, known for its fertile volcanic soil, is home to farms and temperate conditions. It’s where the trek begins, often under warm, sunny skies.

2. Forest Zone

– Altitude: 6,000 to 9,200 ft (1,800 to 2,800 m)
– Precipitation: 79 to 40 inches (2,000 to 1,000 mm)
In this tropical rainforest, humidity is high, and mist frequently shrouds the thick canopy. Rain and mud are common, making for a damp and often muddy hiking experience.

3. Heath/Moorland Zone

– Altitude: 9,200 to 13,200 ft (2,800 to 4,000 m)
– Precipitation: 51 to 21 inches (1,300 to 530 mm)
As you exit the forest, you enter a more exposed landscape of tall grasses and giant heathers. While temperatures can be warm during the day, they drop sharply at night. Rain is less frequent here, but hikers should be prepared for the sun’s intense rays during the day.

4. Alpine/High Desert Zone

– Altitude: 13,200 to 16,500 ft (4,000 to 5,000 m)
– Precipitation: 10 inches (250 mm)
The higher you climb, the drier and more arid the landscape becomes. Temperatures can still be warm during the day, but nighttime temperatures can plunge, and the air becomes thinner. On clear nights, you’ll be camping above the clouds, offering breathtaking views.

5. Arctic Zone

– Altitude: 16,500+ ft (5,000+ m)
– Precipitation: 4 inches (100 mm)
The summit zone is harsh and inhospitable. With snow and ice covering the trails and frigid winds sweeping across the barren landscape, the conditions are extreme. At this altitude, oxygen levels are significantly reduced, and temperatures remain below freezing, even during the day. Hikers need to be prepared for freezing conditions, wind, and the intense sun’s radiation.

Kilimanjaro’s Seasonal Weather Patterns

-Long Dry Season (June to September): This is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro. Temperatures are slightly cooler than the short dry season, and there’s little rainfall. The conditions are ideal for trekking with clear skies and minimal precipitation.

– Short Wet Season (October to December): The short rains start in October and continue through December. Although the rains are less intense than during the long rainy season, they can still make the trails muddy and slippery, so it’s best to avoid climbing during this time.

– Short Dry Season (January to February): The period between January and February is one of the most popular times to climb. Temperatures are warmer, and the chance of rain is low, making for comfortable conditions. However, the weather can still be unpredictable.

– Long Wet Season (March to May): The wettest months on the mountain, with heavy rains from March to May, can make the trails treacherous. The long rains make hiking conditions less than ideal, which is why climbing during this season is not recommended.

Weather on the Summit: Uhuru Peak

Summiting Kilimanjaro is a journey into extreme conditions. Trekkers often begin their summit attempt in the dead of night, when temperatures are freezing and conditions are harsh. Snow and ice cover the trail, and winds can make the climb even more challenging. By the time you reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. However, the weather remains extreme with temperatures that can range between -7°C to -29°C (20°F to -20°F), so preparation is essential.