Climbing is best in early October. The mountain is dry, the temperatures aren’t as cold as they are in the winter (June-August), and October is off-season, so you’ll be able to locate cheaper tickets to Kilimanjaro. For October, all routes Machame, Marangu, Rongai, and Umbwe are great to climb, but among the best routes on Kilimanjaro are the Lemosho Route (7–8 days) or the Northern Circuit / Grand Traverse (8–9 days).
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Why October Is a Good Choice
- Dry season — October falls in the short dry period between the two rainy seasons, so you’re likely to have clearer skies, less rain, and better trail conditions.
- Good visibility — Excellent views of the mountain and surrounding landscape.
- Moderate crowds — Fewer people than the peak July–August or January–February periods, so trails and camps are less busy.
- Temperature — Daytime temperatures are pleasant; summit nights are cold (as always), but the lower sections are more comfortable than in the wetter months.
Potential Downsides
- It can still be dusty on the lower slopes.
- Later in October, the short rains sometimes begin early, bringing occasional afternoon showers.
- Nights at higher camps are cold year-round.
Comparison to Other Months
- Best overall: January–February and June–October.
- Avoid: April and November (peak rainy seasons — very wet and slippery).
Recommendation: October is an excellent time, especially if you want good weather with slightly fewer crowds. Book a 7–9 day route for the best acclimatization and success rate.
Top Recommendation for October
Lemosho Route (7–8 days) — Often the best overall choice in October. Book the 8 days Lemosho Route trek here.
Why it’s great in October:
- Excellent acclimatization with a gradual ascent.
- Stunning scenery, especially the Shira Plateau and Barranco Wall.
- Good weather with a lower chance of rain.
- High success rate (85–95% on longer versions).
Runner-up: Northern Circuit (Grand Traverse) — Slightly longer and quieter, with fantastic 360° views and the highest success rates. Click here to book the 9 days Northern Circuit Route.
Other Good Options in October
- Machame Route (7 days) — Scenic and challenging, still performs well in the dry season.
- Rongai Route (7 days) — Starts on the drier northern side — can be a good choice if early rains arrive.
Routes to Avoid or Be Cautious With
- Shorter 5–6 day routes — Lower success rates due to faster ascent.
Summary for October: Go with an 8-day Lemosho or 9-day Northern Circuit for the best balance of scenery, acclimatization, and success rate during the dry season.
Lemosho or Northern Circuit Route, which is the best route to choose when trekking Kilimanjaro?
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