February’s allure stems from its place in Kilimanjaro’s dry season, running from late December to mid-March, where the weather turns in favor of climbers. Unlike the wetter months of April or November, February brings clearer skies, less cloud cover, and a lower chance of rain, making it a prime window for tackling the Lemosho Route’s 70-kilometer, 7-8-day journey. This route, starting on the western slopes, is celebrated for its scenic splendor—think dense rainforests buzzing with colobus monkeys, the vast Shira Plateau under a crisp blue sky, and the stark beauty of alpine deserts leading to Uhuru Peak. While it’s a high-season month, February remains quieter than the peak crowds of July to September, and Lemosho’s longer path disperses climbers, offering a more serene trek than busier routes like Machame or Marangu.

The dry, dusty trails can coat gear and lungs if winds surge—think cyclone tails or summit gusts—so preparation is key. Yet, the payoff is immense: February’s clarity unveils Kilimanjaro’s majesty, from snow-dusted peaks to distant plains, especially along Lemosho’s panoramic stretches.
The Lemosho Route: A February Journey
The Lemosho Route unfurls across Kilimanjaro’s western flank, weaving through a tapestry of ecosystems over 7-8 days. Starting in rainforest, it ascends to the Shira Plateau, crosses the dramatic Barranco Valley, and culminates at the summit via Barafu Camp. Its gradual profile—longer than Machame or Rongai—enhances acclimatization, a boon for February’s high-altitude push. In this month, the lower zones glow with post-rain greenery, while higher camps turn dusty under the dry sun. Highlights include the Shira Cathedral’s commanding views, the Barranco Wall’s thrilling scramble, and summit night’s icy stillness under a starlit sky—often clearer in February than in wetter seasons.
Scenic Gems:
Rainforest trails alive with birdcalls and monkey chatter.
The Shira Plateau’s endless horizon, crisp against February’s blue dome.
The surreal Lava Tower and the summit’s glacial crown, framed by dry-season clarity.
Preparing for a February Ascent
Climbing Kilimanjaro via Lemosho in February demands meticulous planning—gear, fitness, and mental resilience are your pillars for success amid dry dust and altitude.
Packing for the Conditions
Clothing: Layer strategically—breathable base layers, insulating fleece or down, and a waterproof/windproof shell for wind or rare showers. A buff or face mask is a must for dusty trails and summit winds.
Footwear: Rugged hiking boots with ankle support and grippy soles for Lemosho’s rocky pitches—break them in to avoid blisters.
Gear: A sleeping bag rated for -15°C (5°F), a sturdy four-season tent, trekking poles for stability, and a 3-4L hydration system to combat dry air.
Extras: High-UV sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen, a warm beanie, and gloves for summit night’s freeze. Pack dust-proof bags for electronics and clothes.
Physical and Mental Conditioning
Training: Build stamina over 3-4 months with cardio (running, stair-climbing), long weighted hikes, and strength work (lunges, core exercises). Simulate altitude if possible—hike high local peaks.
Acclimatization: Lemosho’s extra days (e.g., at Shira 2 or Karanga Camp) aid altitude adjustment—pair this with slow pacing and hydration (4-5L daily).
Mindset: Study altitude sickness—headaches, nausea, shortness of breath—and counter it with rest, nutrition, and resolve. Summit night tests your grit; prepare for a relentless climb in the cold.
Weather and Challenges in February
Conditions: February’s short dry season brings stable weather—moderate daytime temps (0–25°C / 32–77°F depending on altitude), minimal rain, and dry, dusty camps. Clear skies enhance navigation and reveal Tanzania’s sprawl below, though snow lingers above 4,000 m, adding a wintry sheen.
Challenges: Dust is the trade-off—camps like Barafu turn powdery, and wind can whip it into your gear and lungs. Altitude sickness looms large above 4,000 m, and summit night’s cold (-10°C / 14°F or lower) and wind chill demand endurance. Rare weather shifts—cyclone tails or sudden snow—call for flexibility.
Crowds on the Lemosho Route in February
February ranks as a high-season month, but it’s a notch below the June-September peak. Lemosho’s length—unlike the cramped Marangu—spreads climbers out, offering a quieter trek than shorter routes. Early February sees fewer people than late in the month, when crowds creep up. The reduced foot traffic means less-worn trails, a more peaceful vibe, and better odds of solitude at viewpoints like Shira Cathedral or Barranco Camp—perfect for soaking in the experience.
Tips for a Triumphant February Climb
Acclimatization:
Summit Day:
Guide Wisdom:
Why February on Lemosho Stands Out
February pairs Lemosho’s scenic grandeur with dry-season perks—warm days, dust-dry trails, and postcard views from rainforest to summit. It’s less crowded than August yet livelier than off-season months like March, striking a sweet spot for weather and solitude. The risk of dust or wind pales against the reward: a summit bathed in February light, with the plains stretching endlessly below. For a quieter twist, early February trims the crowds further, but the month’s vibrancy throughout is hard to top.