Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro During The Rainy Season

Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro During The Rainy Season : Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in the world, rising high to 5,895 meters above sea level. Hiking this mountain is a thrilling adventure, a dream for many hikers in the world. The hike is challenging and requires a moderate level of fitness. Beginners can also make it to the top through various routes.

While many climbers prefer climbing Mount Kilimanjaro during the dry season, the wet season is also the best. The mountain is busy with hiking activities during the dry season: that is from June to October.

 When is the rainy season?

The wet season is from November to May. The wettest months are April, May, and November. Rains begin in mid-March and end in early June. Kilimanjaro experiences long rains from mid-March to May and short rains from December to February.

Pros of hiking in the rainy season

No crowds

Due to the popularity of the Kilimanjaro climb, many climbers prefer the dry season rather than the rainy season. Sometimes, your work schedule will not always allow you to go on vacation in the dry. For such as case, the rainy season is a better option.

A few visitors hike Kilimanjaro in the rainy season. Therefore, you will enjoy hiking with a few hikers. You will enjoy more space in the huts. You will also enjoy picturing the natural beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro alone or with a few hikers.

Low cost

The costs of Kilimanjaro hiking safaris are budget-friendly in the rainy season. Packages are sometimes offered at discounts. Tour operators do this to attract more trekkers. You will also enjoy low prices in the lodges before and after the climb.

Beautiful scenery

During the rainy season, the trails become vegetated by a variety of plant species. As a result, the scenery is always captivating. Hikers will enjoy picturesque settings for photographs. You will get a perfect picture as you hike up this majestic mountain.

 How hard is the Kilimanjaro hike in the rainy season?

If you are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in the rainy season, you should know it is hard. We usually recommend climbers with higher fitness levels. In the rainforest on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro, the trails tend to be muddy. It is extremely cold on the route. It may rain severely while you are on your way to the peak. The clouds may obstruct the beautiful views of the peak and other things.

The weather is unpredictable in the rainy season. This adds a challenge to hikers as hikers get wet. You will probably hike in wet clothes. It is important is bring quick-drying clothes. They will get dry as soon as the sun is up. Otherwise, make sure you bring waterproof gadgets and clothing.

Tips for a rainy season Kilimanjaro climb

The climb is hard, especially when you do not know a few tips. We have prepared a few tips for your hiking experience.

Prepare for the climb: Hit the gym raise weights, run, and stretch your muscles for a week before landing in Tanzania. Acclimatization exercise is also important. If you have never been to high altitudes, try to get used to them. Mount Meru is a better option for acclimatization.

Plan a less strenuous itinerary. The average route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro takes six days. You should remember that the rain season climb is difficult due to rain, mud, and extreme cold. You are advised to include an extra day to be comfortable in your hike. You can also include two days just to be comfortable.

Pack quality rain gear. Rain is a common hindrance to hiking safaris in the rainy season. Bring a waterproof jacket, pants, and boots. Your daypack or duffel bag should also be covered with a plastic bag. This will ensure a comfortable hike.

Choose the perfect route. Mount Kilimanjaro receives less rain in the northern part than in the southern part. The Rongai route dissects this mountain from the northern part. This route is therefore perfect during the rainy season. Lemosho and Shira’s routes are sometimes inaccessible due to bad conditions in the west.

Pack enough layers. The rainy is characterized by extreme cold conditions. Layering is key to successful mountain hiking. You will hike through the rainforest on the foot of Kilimanjaro to the peak without being stressed by the cold.

Select the right footwear and trekking poles. Hiking boots play an essential role in making your hike successful. Trekking poles will provide stability and balance on slippery terrain. Endurance is key to a successful Kilimanjaro climb, but you will need some tools to help you succeed in your climb.

Stay hydrated. This is an essential tip when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. More energy is used up when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in the rainy season. Water is very essential to a successful hike.

Conquering the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro is a real triumph and deserves a certificate of achievement. You will enjoy a lot of views and health benefits.

If you are interested in taking this challenge book a trip with Focus East Africa Safaris. We organize Kilimanjaro hiking safaris year-round.