Weather Conditions in December
December on Mount Kilimanjaro signifies the start of the long rainy season, which generally brings increased precipitation and cooler temperatures. While you may encounter rain, this month also features a mix of clear skies and vibrant landscapes. The rainfall rejuvenates the mountain’s ecosystems, creating lush and verdant scenery. Despite the potential for wet conditions, December’s holiday atmosphere and relatively mild temperatures make it a distinctive time for climbers seeking a festive adventure.
Temperatures
Lower Slopes (Rainforest Zone): Daytime temperatures in the rainforest zone typically range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with nighttime temperatures dropping to around 5°C (41°F). The rainforest is lush and vibrant, enriched by December’s rains.
Heath and Moorland Zones: Daytime temperatures in these zones vary between 0°C and 15°C (32°F to 59°F), while nighttime temperatures can fall to -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F). The landscape, though cooler and wetter, remains spectacular.
Alpine Desert Zone: During the day, temperatures in the alpine desert zone generally range from -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F). At night, temperatures can drop significantly to -15°C to -5°C (5°F to 23°F). The environment is stark and dramatic, accentuated by December’s weather.
Summit Zone: On the summit, daytime temperatures in December are usually around -20°C (-4°F), with nighttime temperatures plunging to -30°C (-22°F). Despite the cold, December often provides clear conditions and a beautiful backdrop for summiting during the holiday season.
Advantages of December Weather
1. Festive Atmosphere: December’s holiday season adds a unique festive touch to your climb. Whether you're celebrating Christmas or welcoming the New Year, the experience is enhanced by the celebratory spirit.
2. Lush Landscapes: The rain from December revitalizes Kilimanjaro’s vegetation, creating a lush and vibrant environment. The rejuvenated landscapes provide a stunning and fresh backdrop for your ascent.
3. Holiday Summits: Climbing Kilimanjaro in December offers the rare opportunity to reach the summit on Christmas or New Year's Eve. This experience is truly special and provides a once-in-a-lifetime memory of celebrating the holidays at the roof of Africa.
Best Routes for Climbing Kilimanjaro in December
1. Machame Route
The Machame Route, known as the "Whiskey" route, is a popular choice for those climbing Kilimanjaro in December. This route is well-regarded for its scenic diversity and effective acclimatization. While December’s rain may bring some challenges, it also enhances the route’s beauty with lush landscapes and a festive climbing experience.
Highlights:
Diverse Scenery: Traverse through various ecosystems, from the dense rainforest to the stark alpine desert. December’s rains make the scenery exceptionally vibrant and visually striking.
Effective Acclimatization: The route’s “climb high, sleep low” strategy supports excellent acclimatization, crucial for adjusting to altitude, especially during the cooler December weather.
Holiday Atmosphere: Experience the festive spirit as you trek through Kilimanjaro’s beautiful landscapes, culminating in a Christmas or New Year’s Eve summit.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp. Begin through the lush rainforest, which is particularly vibrant due to December’s rains.
- Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp. Ascend into the moorlands, enjoying the enhanced scenery.
- Day 3: Shira Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower. Experience the acclimatization benefits of climbing to Lava Tower and descending to Barranco Camp.
- Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp. Climb the Barranco Wall with the cooler December weather providing a more refreshing trek.
- Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp. Prepare for the summit attempt, which could be timed for Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve.
- Day 6: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp. Celebrate reaching the summit during the holiday season, with an early start to maximize clear conditions.
- Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. Complete your trek through the rainforest, rejuvenated by December’s rains.
2. Marangu Route
The Marangu Route, or "Coca-Cola" route, is known for its comfort and ease with hut accommodations. In December, this route offers a more sheltered climbing experience, which is advantageous during the rainy season. The route’s straightforward path combined with the festive spirit makes it a popular choice for those celebrating the holidays.
Highlights:
Comfortable Huts: Enjoy the comfort of sleeping in huts, which provides refuge from December’s potential rains. This is a great way to stay dry and cozy during the holiday trek.
Quicker Ascent: The route’s shorter duration of 5-6 days means you can complete your climb and celebrate Christmas or New Year’s Eve at the summit.
Gradual Climb: The steady ascent of the Marangu Route makes it less strenuous, allowing climbers to enjoy the festive atmosphere without undue physical strain.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut. Begin through the lush rainforest, made even more vibrant by December’s rains.
- Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut. Move into the heath and moorland zones, enjoying the holiday ambiance.
- Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut. Prepare for the summit with cooler temperatures and potential festive celebrations.
- Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Horombo Hut. Summit on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve for a truly special holiday experience.
- Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate. Conclude your trek and celebrate your accomplishment, enriched by the holiday spirit.
3. Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route is celebrated for its scenic beauty and lower traffic. December’s transition to the rainy season adds to the route’s allure with vibrant landscapes and a more tranquil trekking experience. The extended duration allows for thorough acclimatization, enhancing the festive adventure.
Highlights:
Stunning Views: The Lemosho Route offers some of the most picturesque views on Kilimanjaro. December’s rains bring lush landscapes and enhanced visibility, making the scenery even more spectacular.
Excellent Acclimatization: The longer route supports effective acclimatization, which is beneficial for the climb’s physical demands, especially during December’s cooler conditions.
Holiday Spirit: Enjoy the serenity of a less crowded route while celebrating Christmas or New Year’s at the summit.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp). Start through lush forests, enriched by December’s rains.
- Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp. Move into the heath zone, with vibrant and refreshed vegetation.
- Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp. Cross the Shira Plateau, enjoying enhanced views and the holiday ambiance.
- Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp via Lava Tower. Benefit from acclimatization with a climb to Lava Tower and a descent to Barranco Camp.
- Day 5: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp. Climb the Barranco Wall, enjoying the cooler December weather.
- Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp. Prepare for the summit attempt, which could coincide with Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve.
- Day 7: Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp. Celebrate reaching the summit during the holiday season, with clear skies often present.
- Day 8: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. Complete your descent through the rejuvenated rainforest, celebrating your achievement.
4. Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit Route provides a unique and less-traveled path, offering panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. December’s rain rejuvenates the landscape, creating a dramatic and festive setting for your climb.
Highlights:
Distinctive Views: The Northern Circuit Route offers unparalleled views of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes, with December’s rain enhancing the dramatic scenery.
Extended Climb: The longer duration of this route supports excellent acclimatization, making the climb more manageable and enjoyable.
Festive Atmosphere: Celebrate the holidays with a tranquil and exclusive trekking experience, perfect for a Christmas or New Year’s summit.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree Camp). Begin through lush forests, made vibrant by December’s rains.
- Day 2: Mti Mkubwa to Shira 1 Camp. Transition to the heath zone with revitalized vegetation.
- Day 3: Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp. Cross the Shira Plateau with enhanced views and festive spirit.
- Day 4: Shira 2 Camp to Moir Hut. Explore the northern slopes with rejuvenated landscapes.
- Day 5: Moir Hut to Pofu Camp. Traverse the northern areas with cooler and stable conditions.
- Day 6: Pofu Camp to Kikelewa Camp. Move towards the eastern slopes, benefiting from December’s weather.
- Day 7: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn. Prepare for the final ascent with spectacular views.
- Day 8: Mawenzi Tarn to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Mweka Camp. Celebrate reaching the summit during the holiday season.
- Day 9: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. Conclude your journey with a descent through the vibrant rainforest.
Essential Tips for Climbing Kilimanjaro in December
Preparation
Physical Fitness: Prepare your body for the demands of Kilimanjaro with a focus on endurance and strength training. December’s cooler and potentially wetter conditions require good physical conditioning.
Acclimatization: Opt for a longer route or spend time at higher altitudes before your climb to enhance acclimatization. This is crucial for managing altitude sickness and enjoying the holiday trek.
Packing
Layered Clothing: Pack clothing layers to adapt to December’s variable temperatures. Include moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers for protection against rain.
Rain Gear: Given the potential for rain, ensure you have high-quality rain gear. A durable waterproof jacket and pants are essential for staying dry.
Footwear: Wear sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots with good traction. Comfortable and supportive footwear is vital for navigating Kilimanjaro’s diverse terrain.
Health and Safety
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support acclimatization and maintain energy levels. Hydration is key, especially in cooler and potentially wetter conditions.
Pace Yourself: Adopt a slow and steady pace to help your body adjust to the altitude. Following the "pole pole" (slowly, slowly) mantra is essential for minimizing altitude sickness.
Guidance: Listen to your guide’s advice and instructions for a safe and enjoyable climb. Their expertise is invaluable for navigating Kilimanjaro’s conditions and ensuring a successful ascent.
Why Choose December for Your Kilimanjaro Adventure
Climbing Kilimanjaro in December offers a unique blend of festive excitement and natural beauty. The opportunity to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s at the summit adds a special dimension to your adventure. While December’s weather brings the potential for rain, it also refreshes the mountain’s landscapes, making them vibrant and striking. This combination of a festive atmosphere, rejuvenated scenery, and cooler temperatures makes December a distinctive and unforgettable time to climb Kilimanjaro.
Book Your December Kilimanjaro Climb Today!
Embrace the festive spirit and take on the challenge of climbing Kilimanjaro in December. Our experienced guides, carefully designed itineraries, and supportive team are dedicated to ensuring a memorable and successful climb. Whether you choose the Machame Route, Marangu Route, Lemosho Route, Northern Circuit Route, or any other, we offer tailored packages to suit your preferences and needs. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to summit Africa’s highest peak during the holiday season. Book your adventure today and join us for a magical journey to the Roof of Africa. Celebrate the end of the year with an unforgettable climb and create lasting memories with our comprehensive packages and expert guidance.