News & TipsCan I Climb Kilimanjaro During the Rainy Season?
Most people don’t climb Mount Kilimanjaro during its two wet seasons. But Can I Climb Kilimanjaro During the Rainy Season? Before hiking in the rainy season, you should know a few things.
When does Mount Kilimanjaro get wet?
The long rainy season starts in the middle of March and ends in early June. From November to early December, it rains for a short time. More water falls during the long rainy season than during the short wet season. So it’s better to come in November or December than in March or June.
What changes when it rains on the climb?
If you want to climb, think about coming during the wet season. Bad weather makes climbing harder and less fun in many ways.
Of course, rain makes you wet, which cools you down and makes you more likely to get cold. It can be pretty uncomfortable to be in wet clothes and shoes, even if there is no increased risk. It’s possible that your clothes will never be fully dry again after a day hike.
Water also changes the land, making the ground muddy, soft, and slippery. Injuries are more likely to happen, and it takes more energy to get around.
Finally, clouds, rain, wind, and water all make it harder to see. Because of this, it’s not always as beautiful as the dry season. On the trip, you might not get to see much. One misconception is that rain creates snow, which looks very pretty on the more scenic hills.
Why is it beneficial to climb when it’s raining?
Nobody would want to climb during the wet season because it’s so difficult to do.
To begin, some people can’t climb during the dry season because of other commitments. The mountain is approachable all year, so they continue their hike anyway.
Second, Kilimanjaro is a very famous mountain during the dry season, so it gets crowded. Folks who want to walk alone in the park during the off-season choose to do so when it rains. At times, only your group is at a campsite, which changes the whole mood During these times, rain is more likely than in Kilimanjaro’s dry season, but it does not occur consistently.
Kilimanjaro is a large mountain that creates its own weather patterns, which are notoriously difficult to predict. At any given moment, There is a possibility of experiencing good or bad weather while attempting to climb. If you are fortunate, it may not rain at all.
Tips for Kilimanjaro Treks in the Rainy Season
If you still want to climb during the wet season, here are some things to keep in mind:
IIt rains less in the southern parts of the mountain compared to the northern parts. Because of this, the Rongai Route is the best way to climb during the wet season. The huts on the Marangu Road make it another good way. The Lemosho and Shira routes may be closed due to road conditions in the west.
Climb when the weather is not too cold. If you live near the beginning or end of the wet season, you may have a better chance of experiencing pleasant weather.
IIt is important to have good rain gear. Climbers should wear waterproof jackets, pants, and boots that allow air to pass through. Covers for the backpacks or plastic bags should keep the daypack and suitcase dry in the rain. You should also put everything inside the pack and duffel in Ziploc bags or waterproof stuff boxes.
The path gets harder when the weather is awful. The risks also change. To be safe, it is best to plan less difficult routes when climbing during the wet season.
