Climbing Kilimanjaro on a Full Moon
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on a Full Moon
Dreaming of summiting Kilimanjaro? Here’s a sweet idea to add a touch of magic to your adventure—choose a night with a full moon for your climb!
When to Begin the Journey:
Picture this: starting your climb late at night, around 11:00 PM to 1:00 AM, from a high camp. The exact time depends on how your group has been moving in the days leading up to this magical moment. As you’ll be navigating in the dark, a bit of extra moonlight can turn the experience into something truly enchanting.
Why Opt for the Full Moon:
Now, why go for a full moon? It’s not just about practicality; it’s about infusing your journey with a sprinkle of moonlit allure. The full moon adds a fairy-tale touch to your climb, making it a memory to cherish.
Smart and Sweet Planning:
Before circling a date with a full moon on your calendar, take a moment to visualize where the moon will be in the sky during your climb. Our handy tool is here to help. Input your climb dates, discover when the moon will be full, and even see its position as you ascend to the summit. It’s like planning a sweet rendezvous with the moon!
Not a fan of night climbs? Fear not!
Before picking a date for your Kilimanjaro climb with a full moon, it’s smart to think about where the moon will be in the sky. Don’t just go for the closest full moon date—take a moment to imagine where the moon will be when you’re climbing up to the top from the high camp.
To help with this, use our easy tool. Put in your climb dates, find out when the full moon is, and use a simple slider to see where the moon will be in the sky as you climb to the summit during the night. It’s a simple way to plan and make sure you have the moonlight to brighten your Kilimanjaro climb. Keep it simple, climb confidently!
You don’t have to climb Kilimanjaro in the dark! Some people don’t like it because it’s colder and you can’t see as much. And for kids, staying awake during the dark can be tough.
For those who prefer daytime climbs, Kili Kings Adventure can make it happen. We usually start early around 0430 and kick off the climb at 0500 – 0530. This is also great if you’re climbing during busy months like July and August.
If you’re on one of our Excel Series climbs, we often go for daytime summits, so you don’t have to descend all the way to Mweka, Millennium, or Horombo Camps.
Why most of people like to summit Mt Kilimanjaro at night on a new moon
Not everyone likes climbing on a full moon at night. Some prefer a new moon because it’s better for star-gazing. If you love stars, plan your climb when it’s likely to be dry (June to September) and aim for a summit on a new moon for the clearest, darkest nights. Enjoy Kilimanjaro with daylight and stars guiding your way!