Home Arrow FAQs Arrow What is the wettest month on Kilimanjaro?

What is the wettest month on Kilimanjaro?

The wettest month on Kilimanjaro is April. This month falls in the middle of the Long Rains, which normally last from late March to May. Moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean move inland during this period, causing high precipitation in Tanzania's northern highlands, including Kilimanjaro.

Rainfall in April is usually continuous, and the rains fall with long, soaking rains rather than brief tropical showers. During early mornings, clouds often form early in the day, reducing visibility, and at times the temperatures on the mountain can drop sharply, especially when the weather is wet, coupled with the elevation.   Trails become muddy and slippery, making rock surfaces hazardous. On the higher altitudes, precipitation may fall as sleet or wet snow at higher elevations, thus making it even more difficult to make the treks.

Due to these aspects, the month of April is generally regarded as the least desirable month to climb Kilimanjaro.

Why April Is the Wettest Month

Several weather changes form a combination that makes April the month with the highest rainfall on Mount Kilimanjaro:

1. The Long Rains Weather System

This change in seasons introduces moisture that comes inland in the Indian Ocean into Tanzania. As the warm air ascends the slopes of Kilimanjaro, it cools and condenses against which usually results in heavy rainfall.

2. Orographic (Mountain-Induced) Rainfall

The high altitude of Kilimanjaro is able to push warm and humid air upwards.   This increases the rainfall on lower and middle slopes during the Long Rains.

3. Equatorial Climate Pattern

East Africa experiences two rainy seasons each year:

  • Short Rains (October–December)
  • Long Rains (March to May, sometimes extending slightly earlier or later)

April is typically the wettest month on Kilimanjaro, receiving the highest average rainfall during the Long Rains.

Climbing Kilimanjaro in April: What to Expect

April is the wettest month, but it is not impossible to climb--but the weather is much more difficult:

  • Trails are wet and treacherous, and they decelerate the journey, particularly along a forested trail such as Machame and Lemosho.
  • Visibility decreases, and the tops and other landscapes become limited in sight.
  • The gear should be waterproof, such as boots, backpack covers, ponchos, and layered clothes.
  • There are fewer climbers on the mountain, which allows solitude but with fewer support services and logistical support.

The vast majority of seasoned guides highly recommend staying out of April unless one is a serious trekker who can tolerate extreme weather conditions.

When Is the Best Time to Climb Instead?

To enjoy good weather, clearer skies, and more comfortable trail conditions, the following are the best seasons:

  • January–February (clear and relatively warm on the lower slopes)
  • June-October (dry season, most popular, however, colder in high altitudes)

Both periods offer climbers a much better chance of reaching the summit

Conclusion

April is the wettest month in Mount Kilimanjaro, sitting at the peak of the Long Rains season.  The prolonged, intensive rains render walking in the mountain challenging, and sightseeing is not very good; thus, most of the climbers decide to make the mountain attempt during the drier months of the year, which are also more predictable. This is critical in learning these weather patterns to ensure that the climb is planned safely, pleasurably, and successfully

Related Articles

View more Arrow
Live Chat
COOKIE SETTINGS