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.

The following items are needed:

• 1 – Waterproof Jacket, breathable with hood
• 1 – Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down
• 1 – Soft Jacket, fleece or soft-shell
• 2 – Long Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
• 1 – Short Sleeve Shirt, light-weight, moisture-wicking fabric
• 1 – Waterproof Pants, breathable (side zipper recommended)
• 1 – Hiking Pants
• 1 – Fleece Pants
• 1 – Long Underwear, moisture-wicking fabric
• 1 – Brimmed Hat, for sun protection
• 1 – Winter Hat
• 1 – Balaclava
• 1 – Gloves, thin
• 1 – Gloves, warm
• 1 – Hiking Boots, warm, waterproof, broken-in
• 3 – Socks, wool or synthetic
• 1 – Gym Shoes, to wear at camp (optional)
• 1 – Gaiters, waterproof (optional)
• 1 – Sunglasses or Goggles
• 2 – Water Bottle
• 1 – Water Bladder (2 Liter)
• 1 – Towel, lightweight, quick-dry (optional)
• 1 – Pee Bottle, to avoid leaving tent at night (optional)
• 3 – Dry Bags or Plastic Bags, various sizes, to keep gear dry and separate (optional)
• 1 – Backpack Cover, waterproof (optional)
• 1 – Head Lamp, with extra batteries
• 1 – Duffel Bag, 50-90L capacity, for porters to carry your equipment (Maximum 15kg)
• 1 – Daypack, 30-35L capacity, for you to carry your personal gear (10 kg)
• 1 – Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons
• 1 – Camp Pillow, inflatable (optional)
• 1 – Trekking Poles, collapsable (highly recommended)
• Sunscreen (SPF30 or SPF50, highly recommended)
• Lip Balm (highly recommended)
• Snacks, light-weight, high calorie, high energy
• Wet Wipes (recommended)
• Insect Repellent, containing DEET (optional)
• Electrolytes, powder or tablets (optional)
• Camera, with extra batteries (optional)
• Toiletries (optional)
• Prescriptions (optional)
• Personal First Aid Kit (optional)
• Hand Sanitizer (optional)
• Toilet Paper (optional)
• Passport, Visa, Immunization Papers