Kilimanjaro Region in northeastern Tanzania is home to Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, rising to 5,895 metres above sea level. The region encompasses lush rainforests, coffee and banana plantations, and the vibrant town of Moshi, making it a premier destination for trekkers and wildlife lovers alike. With a rich Chagga cultural heritage, stunning volcanic landscapes, and world-class safari access, Kilimanjaro Region offers one of Africa's most compelling travel experiences.
Kilimanjaro Region has a complex climate shaped by the dramatic altitude range from 700 metres at Moshi to 5,895 metres at Uhuru Peak. Moshi town enjoys a warm tropical climate with two wet seasons, while the mountain itself creates its own weather systems with different conditions at each ecological zone. The summit can experience temperatures below -20°C even while Moshi swelters at 30°C.
Best time to visit
Best: January-March and June-October
Best Reason: These dry season months offer the clearest skies for Kilimanjaro views, the best trekking conditions with firm trails, and optimal wildlife watching on day safaris. January-March is the best season for photography with dramatically clear air.
Peak Season: July-September
Avoid: April-May and November
Avoid Reason: The long rainy season (April-May) brings persistent rainfall, cloudy skies obscuring Kilimanjaro, muddy mountain trails, and flash flood risks. November's short rains make trekking conditions uncomfortable and views unreliable.
Month-by-month weather
Typical conditions throughout the year.
January
22°C/72°F (Moshi). Summit can reach -15°C
Dry season continues with excellent Kilimanjaro views and superb trekking conditions. Low crowds and good accommodation rates. One of the best months to climb.
February
23°C/73°F (Moshi). Summit -15 to -5°C
Often the driest and clearest month of the year in Kilimanjaro. Excellent summit visibility, low crowds, and great photography conditions. Highly recommended.
March
23°C/73°F (Moshi). Summit -10 to -5°C
Start of the long rains – increasing afternoon showers from mid-March onward. Waterfalls and forests at their most lush. Trekking conditions deteriorating by month end.
April
22°C/72°F (Moshi). Summit -8 to -3°C
Full rainy season with persistent daily rain in Moshi. Mountain trails are muddy and summit visibility is poor. Significant discounts at hotels. Materuni Waterfall is spectacular.
May
21°C/70°F (Moshi). Summit -8 to -3°C
End of the long rains – showers can continue into mid-May. The mountain is lush and beautiful. Conditions improving by late May. Excellent accommodation discounts.
June
20°C/68°F (Moshi). Summit -15 to -5°C
Dry season begins – excellent trekking conditions return. Clear mornings with Kilimanjaro views from Moshi. Cooler evenings in town. An excellent month to visit.
July
19°C/66°F (Moshi). Summit -20 to -10°C
Peak trekking season – clearest skies, busiest mountain, best summit conditions. Prices at their highest. Cold nights at altitude. Book everything well in advance.
August
20°C/68°F (Moshi). Summit -20 to -10°C
Peak season continues. Excellent summit conditions with clear skies. Very busy on all trekking routes. Accommodation premiums apply. Fantastic for photography.
September
21°C/70°F (Moshi). Summit -15 to -5°C
Excellent conditions continue as peak crowds thin slightly. Clear skies and good summit visibility. A great month for a balance of conditions and value.
October
22°C/72°F (Moshi). Summit -10 to -3°C
Short rains begin toward month end with afternoon showers. Still predominantly dry in early October. Good value shoulder season. Carry waterproofs.
November
22°C/72°F (Moshi). Summit -8 to -3°C
Short rains at their peak – frequent afternoon thunderstorms, cloudy skies, muddy trails. Not recommended for Kilimanjaro summit attempts. Accommodation prices drop.
December
22°C/72°F (Moshi). Summit -12 to -5°C
Short rains typically end in early December. From mid-December conditions improve and the Christmas-New Year period is popular. Festive atmosphere in Moshi. Book ahead.
The seasons
What to expect in each part of the year.
Spring
Months: March-May
The long rainy season (masika) begins in March-April with increasingly frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Kilimanjaro's lower slopes are lush and green, waterfalls are at their most dramatic, but mountain trails become muddy and summit views are often obscured.
Summer
Months: June-August
The long dry season brings clear skies, excellent visibility of Kilimanjaro's glaciers, and peak trekking conditions. June-July sees the mountain busy with climbers; August is peak season. Temperatures at altitude drop significantly and summit conditions are demanding but predictable.
Fall
Months: September-October
September remains excellent for trekking with clearer skies and slightly fewer crowds than July-August. October sees the beginning of the short rains (vuli) with afternoon showers increasing toward month end. Still a good period for climbing with proper gear.
Winter
Months: November-February
November brings the short rains which typically clear by December. January-February is one of the best trekking periods with dry conditions, clear skies, and significantly fewer climbers than July-September. Moshi town is warm and pleasant. December is busy due to Christmas.
Crowds & peak times
When to expect tourists and when to avoid them.
- High Season
- July-September
- Shoulder Season
- January-March and October
- Low Season
- April-May and November
Major events & festivals
Time your visit around what matters.
Kilimanjaro Marathon
Annual marathon starting in Moshi with a spectacular Kilimanjaro backdrop, attracting international runners
Christmas and New Year Celebrations
Festive celebrations in Moshi with church services, community gatherings, and increased tourist activity
Kilimanjaro Saba Saba Festival
Tanzania's trade fair and Chagga cultural celebrations coinciding with the Saba Saba (7 July) public holiday