Rain, Rain, Go Away!

There’s a 40% chance it’s already raining [as she stands in a downpour]. ~Mean Girls

Does preparing for the unpredictable seem impossible? Well that’s just what you have to do because on this trek you will experience many ecological zones and go from equator-like weather to what seems like Antarctic weather in a matter of mere days. You will climb below through, and above clouds, in tropical sun, rain and snow, through a forest, across a desert and finally on ice fields to the summit. As the weather is unpredictable overall, you will need to be prepared for wet days and freezing cold nights.

Are you the kind of girl who dreads going to class or work on a day that it’s pouring rain? On a dreary and humid day do you worry about your hair frizzing to the size of Texas? While I reluctantly face the rain on my way to class by wearing my bright pink rain jacket, I definitely would rather stay curled up in my warm bed than venture into downpours. 

If you’re like me, the idea of hiking Mount Kilimanjaro in rain showers is less that appealing. Therefore, it’s really important to choose the time of year that the weather is ideal for yourself.  There are two rainy seasons on Mount Kilimanjaro, from March to May and again from November to January. Hiking during the rainy season will definitely make for not as crisp and picturesque photos, and potentially a more difficult trek due to hiking through the mud initially and misty or snowy conditions later.

Not a fan of cold temperatures? This may not be a problem at the beginning of the hike where temperatures are on average 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. However, prepare to bundle up at the summit at night time where the temperature becomes chilly ranging from -15 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. As your hike to the summit takes place in the middle of the night (more on that later!), you will need to prepare yourself for brisk weather. And by brisk I mean brutally cold weather that is more frigid than the mean girls in from your high school years or your icy mother in law.

One of the best times to climb the mountain is during the dry season from June to October. Though it is the coldest time, this is the most popular time to go. The warmest months of January through March are the second most popular time. January, February, and September are said to be the best months for climbing due to little rain, warmer temperatures, and their overall ideal weather conditions. 

I trekked Kilimanjaro during the month of June. To learn more about the weather during my hike, read future posts about my trip!

*Thanks to my roommate & best friend Katie for today's quote inspiration! You rock!

My favorite pink Northface rain jacket I wore up Kilimanjaro

P.S. Happy Valentines Day loves! Have a wonderful day celebrating love with family and friends!