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BEFORE YOU CLIMB
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BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
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ON YOUR CLIMB
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What is the Weather on Kilimanjaro?
The weather on Mount Kilimanjaro can vary from very hot to extremely cold within the same day although it does not experience wide temperature changes from season to season. Instead, the temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro are determined more by the altitude and time of day.
At the base of the mountain, the average temperature is around 21 to 27 °C and at the summit, Uhuru Peak, the night time temperatures can range between 20 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 to -29 degrees Celsius). Like all great mountains, Kilimanjaro creates its own weather which can be extremely variable and difficult to predict. Hikers need to be prepared for warm, sunny conditions, and rain, wind, cold, and even snow.
Even though the best time to climb Kilimanjaro coincides with the “dry” seasons, rain, and snow are possible at any time of the year. As you get higher up, the temperatures can vary dramatically, one moment you can be trekking in baking sunshine, the next you’ll be layering up against a bitter wind.
Standing at 19,341 ft above sea level, Kilimanjaro is big enough to create it’s own weather systems. Being on the equator means the trade winds (sometimes called ‘monsoons’) that move across the ocean, drawing moisture upwards are interrupted by the mountain. This causes the wind to push up towards the summit, cooling as it goes, bringing rain and snow.
Is there snow on the top of Mount Kilimanjaro?
The long rainy season between March and May is a result of the trade winds from the south-east. These southerly winds from the Indian Ocean are laden with moisture, bringing rain to the lower slopes and snow on the top of Mount Kilimanjaro summit. During this season, the southern slopes get the most rainfall.
The ‘short rains’ in November are from a dryer wind coming from the northeast. As it hasn’t traveled across an ocean, the rains are shorter and less intense than during the long rains. Most of the rainfall during this season falls on the more northerly slopes.
Kilimanjaro Temperatures
Mount Kilimanjaro doesn’t experience wide temperature changes from season to season due to it’s proximity to the equator, Instead, the temperatures on Mount Kilimanjaro are determined more so by the altitude and what time of day it is. At the base of Mount Kilimanjaro where the the climb starts, the average temperature is around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 27 degrees Celsius). From the base when you ascent, the temperatures will decrease as you go through mountain’s 5 ecological zones.
At the Summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, which lies in the arctic zone the night temperatures can range between 20 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 to -29 degrees Celsius). Therefore, we recommend that you should always be prepared for wet and cold nights so please bring the necessary gear at all times.
Kilimanjaro Weather through the Climate Zones
Kilimanjaro comprises five primary ecological climate zones — the Cultivation (Farmland) Zone, Rainforest Zone, Heather and Moorland Zone, Alpine Desert Zone, and the Arctic Zone
- Altitude Range: 2,600 to 6,000 ft. or 792 to 1,800 metres
- Days Temperature Range: 21 to 32 ℃ or 70 to 90 °F
- Nights Temperature Range: 4 to 15 ℃ to 40 to 60 °F
Zone 1 on Kilimanjaro is the Cultivation Zone. The altitude ranges from 792 m to 1,800 m. You can find plenty of human activities in this zone and see grazing livestock and small farm operations.
You can also find several rivers formed by the glacier run-off on the top of the mountain. Most of the porters and guides are from this part of Kilimanjaro.
- Altitude Range: 6,000 to 9,200 ft or 1,800 to 2,800 metres
- Days Temperature Range: 21 to32 ℃ or 70 to 90 °F
- Nights Temperature Range: 4 to 15 ℃ or 40 to 60 °F
The rainforest zone is the montane found encircling the whole mountain, also known as the rain forest. This forest is dense and wet and is home to many birds and other animal species.
Ever since the increase of human activity in the area, the big game has been rare, but plenty of monkeys and birds are around.
- Altitude Range: 9,200 to 11,000 ft or 2,800 to 3,350 metres
- Days Temperature Range: 10 to 27 ℃ 50 to 80 °F
- Nights Temperature Range: -1 to 15 ℃ or 30 to 60 °F
As you enter the Heather and Moorland zone, you’ll be greeted by the majestic views of giant heathers and tussock grasses, as well as the scrubby shrubs. When you ascend, the average temperatures drop.
You’ll also see giant lobelias and senecios, which have developed unique characteristics, allowing them to adapt to the drastic temperature changes of the place.
- Altitude Range: 13,200 to 16,500 ft or 4,020 to 5,030 metres
- Days Temperature Range: -12 to 15 ℃ or 10 to 60 °F
- Nights Temperature Range: -12 to 4 ℃ or 10 to 40 °F
The Alpine Desert Zone is barren and bleak. Thus, only the toughest plants exist in this area. You’ll often see tussocky grass and small hardy plants with only little flowers in this landscape.
Furthermore, rugged rock formations and scenic views mainly dominate this area.
- Altitude Range: 16,500 to 19,340 ft or 5,030 to 5,895 metres
- Days Temperature Range: -12 to 4 ℃ or 10 to 40 °F
- Nights Temperature Range: -26 to -7 ℃ to -15 to 20 °F
The Arctic zone is dry and freezing-cold during nighttime, opposed to the intense sunshine during the day. Due to the shortness of available oxygen at sea level, this part of Kilimanjaro is dominated by massive glaciers and towering boulders.
In this area of Mount Kilimanjaro, there are no animals or plants present except for lichens since the climate here is extremely cold. At nighttime, temperatures are typically below the freezing point.
During the day, as you set off to climb Kilimanjaro’s peak, there could be ice and snow underfoot. Also, expect the temperature to be bitterly cold even in the middle of the day.
Thus, it’s wise to bring sunscreen to protect your exposed body parts as the dry air can dehydrate you quickly. You’ll also need warm layers of clothing to keep your core temperature up.
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We have been receiving reviews from our served clients and We are rated 5/5 by customers. This honor is given to us by customers because we always remain committed to all our customers to do whatever is needed by them to make their safari fully satisfied.
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Pim S2019-12-04perfectly arranged experience of a life time We did the Lemosho as a group of 4 people from around 21 years old. From the very first moment we knew that we were in good hands. We were picked up from our lodge which was arranged by Debby Adventures as well. After renting our equipment and meeting the crew, our journey began: we were driving towards the Kilimanjaro. The first day was a hike to the first camp. This hike was mainly in a beautiful jungle scene. The first thing we noticed was the very pleasant way of hiking. Our two guides Anton and Wilfred knew exactly what they did and led the way in an agreeable tempo. After the hike in the wild jungle of Kilimanjaro National Park the night quickly arrived and we were introduced to our personal waiter, Jackson, who brought our food and drinks. Jackson was a great example of the warm and caring staff that joined us on our journey. With an iconic voice and sense of humor he certainly gave a special addition with his presence. That evening we were also introduced to the chef who made food for us every morning, afternoon and evening: Eli. We think that partly because of the excellent food prepared for us, we made it to the peak in such a pleasant fashion. The food was very nutritious and tastful. In the following few days, we made our way up. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking. We did not expect so many different landscapes and views. Every night after dinner, Anton or Wilfred did the daily briefing. This is when we discussed the day and answered some questions about how we were feeling and other health-related questions. Also, every night our oxygen level was measured and we experienced it as professional and pleasant. Speaking of professionality, Anton and Wilfred were the best guides to climb the Kilimanjaro with. Their daily advice, carefulness and knowledge about the mountain could not have been better. Before we knew it, summit night arrived. From base camp to the peak took us 6,5 hours which was pretty tough. But we all made it as a group and we could not be happier. The euphoria of getting to the top is indescribable. After descending Debby took such great care of us which made the experience even more perfect. In conclusion, we would recommend this tour to anyone we know. We are a beautiful life experience richer, thanks to Debby and her crew.VerifiedMasecha2019-03-27An amaizing experience! I have left mount Kilimanjaro with memories that will last a life time with a 6 days Marangu route. It was a great experience, good intro to Mt Kilimanjaro, our guide was super insightful I was impressed with his knowledge of ancient history of Mt Kilimanjaro and all the near places. Everything was planned and organized professionally, Morgan our trip leader was energetic and fun, he looked after us very well.VerifiedBeatrice T2019-03-217 Days Rongai Route with Debby Adventure Before I did the Mount Kilimanjaro trekking (7 days Rongai route) with Debby Adventure, my perception was that not everyone can make it to the top because of the distance, weather conditions and little experience in trekking from people like myself. But when I arrived in Tanzania I jointed a motivated team from Debby Adventure who encouraged and coached me until I made it to the rooftop of Africa. This felt like my dream came true. “Anyone can make it to the rooftop of Africa with such an encouraging team”.VerifiedElicy D2018-11-276DAYS MARANGU ROUTE WITH DEBBY ADVENTURE I did coffee tour and climb Mt. Kilimanjaro for six days via marangu route with debby Adventure. I spent my time effectively to climb mt. Kilimanjaro and to reach in Uhuru Peak for real it was amaizing especially theur guides are kind and funny, excellent in English speaking experienced and hard working. Thanks Debby Adventure I enjoyed to the fullest I promise I will come back with my friends
