Kilimanjaro and Bwindi

Best Time to Hike Mount Kilimanjaro

January to March (Dry & Cooler Season)

• Clear, stable weather with fewer crowds.

• Cooler temperatures at higher altitudes, making climbing conditions comfortable.

• Excellent visibility for photography and scenic views.

June to October (Dry & Peak Season)

• Best overall conditions for summit success.

• Warm, dry days with minimal rainfall.

• Busiest months, especially July–September, but also the most reliable weather.

April to May (Long Rains)

• Heavy rainfall makes trails muddy and slippery.

• Far fewer climbers and lower prices.

• Views may be obscured by cloud cover.

• Only recommended for experienced hikers seeking solitude.

November (Short Rains)

• Light rain, but still climbable.

• Moderate crowds and beautiful green landscapes.

• A good compromise for those avoiding peak-season prices and traffic.

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Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

June to September (Peak Dry Season)

• Best trekking conditions—trails are dry and easier to navigate.

• Excellent visibility and reliable wildlife encounters.

• High demand for permits; early booking is essential.

December to February (Short Dry Season)

• Another prime period for trekking.

• Fewer crowds than mid-year months.

• Beautiful forest conditions with good sunlight filtering through the canopy.

March to May (Long Rains)

• Slippery, challenging trails but lush, beautiful forest scenery.

• Lowest crowds and improved chances of last-minute permits.

• Great photographic opportunities with misty, atmospheric landscapes.

October to November (Short Rains)

• Occasional rainfall but generally manageable trekking.

• Quiet forests and excellent birdlife.

• A good balance between experience quality and availability.

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What to Pack for Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro

Clothing

• Layered clothing system (base layer, insulating layer, waterproof outer layer).

• Warm fleece or down jacket for summit night.

• Thermal underwear and warm gloves.

• Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.

• Gaiters for mud and scree sections.

• Warm hat, buff, and sunglasses.

• Moisture-wicking socks (several pairs).

Gear & Essentials

• Headlamp with extra batteries (critical for summit night).

• Trekking poles for stability.

• Sleeping bag rated for –10°C or below.

• Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder.

• Water purification tablets or filter.

• Camera or phone with power bank.

• Sunscreen and SPF lip balm.

• Personal first aid kit (including blister care and altitude medication if advised).

Travel Essentials

• Valid passport and Tanzania visa (if required).

• Travel and evacuation insurance (mandatory for Kilimanjaro).

• Yellow Fever certificate (if arriving from a risk country).

• Personal medications.

• Local currency for tips and mountain purchases.

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What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Clothing

• Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers (protection from vegetation and insects).

• Waterproof hiking boots.

• Rain jacket or poncho (Bwindi is always humid).

• Gardening gloves for grabbing vegetation along steep trails.

• Neutral-coloured clothing (avoid bright colours).

• Warm layer for cool mornings at higher altitude.

Gear & Essentials

• A walking stick (often provided, but bringing your own is fine).

• Backpack with a waterproof cover.

• Reusable water bottle and snacks.

• Binoculars for birding and spotting forest wildlife.

• Camera with rain protection.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Gaiters for muddy or slippery trails.

Travel Essentials

• Gorilla trekking permit (required and must be booked in advance).

• Valid passport.

• Travel insurance.

• Personal medications and first aid basics.

• Local currency for porters and tips.