While the month of March marks the tail end of the short dry season and the onset of the wetter months, March offers a quieter, less crowded experience on Africa’s highest peak. However, this tranquillity comes with trade-offs—expect frequent rain, snow at higher elevations, and pervasive cloud cover that can obscure the mountain’s grandeur.
For those contemplating a climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, the month of March presents a unique proposition, particularly along the renowned Lemosho Route. The Lemosho Route, a 70-kilometer, 7-8-day trek starting on the western slopes, remains a compelling choice for climbers seeking solitude amid its lush rainforests, expansive plateaus, and rugged alpine zones. In this guide, we’ll unpack why March appeals to some, what challenges lie ahead, and how to prepare for a successful summit via this scenic path.

Why March Draws Climbers to the Lemosho Route
March straddles the transition from Kilimanjaro’s short dry season (January-February) to the long rains (April-May), making it a wildcard month. Before mid-March, you might catch lingering dry spells—warm days, less precipitation, and decent visibility—but after that, the weather shifts dramatically. Rain and snow become daily possibilities, trails turn slick, and clouds often cloak the mountain, hiding it from the valleys below. Yet, this unpredictability attracts adventurers who relish a challenge and prefer fewer companions on the path. The Lemosho Route, with its gradual ascent and diverse scenery, shines in March for its solitude—fewer climbers mean a more intimate connection with the mountain’s ecosystems, from dripping rainforests to misty highlands.

The Lemosho Route in March: A Journey Through the Elements
The Lemosho Route unfolds over 7-8 days, tracing a path from Kilimanjaro’s western base through rainforest, heath, and the Shira Plateau, then up dramatic features like the Barranco Wall to the summit at Uhuru Peak. In March, this journey takes on a distinct character—rain-soaked lower zones burst with verdant life, while higher camps like Barafu (4,673 m) may be dusted with snow or shrouded in fog. The route’s gradual incline aids acclimatization, a critical advantage when wet conditions slow your pace. Expect slippery trails, misty vistas, and—if the clouds part—glimpses of the Southern Ice Fields or the rugged Mawenzi Peak.
Standout Features:
Rainforests dripping with moisture, alive with birds and monkeys.
The Shira Plateau’s eerie beauty under a gray March sky.
The Barranco Wall’s wet scramble and the summit’s icy stillness, framed by fleeting clearings.
Preparing for a March Climb
Climbing Kilimanjaro via Lemosho in March requires robust preparation—wet weather, altitude, and solitude demand the right gear, fitness, and mindset.
Packing for the Wet and Wild
Clothing: Layer with waterproof precision—moisture-wicking base layers, insulating fleece or down, and a top-tier waterproof/breathable shell (Gore-Tex recommended) for relentless rain. Gaiters and waterproof gloves are clutch for muddy trails and snowy summits.
Footwear: High-quality waterproof hiking boots with aggressive soles and ankle support—test them for grip on wet rocks. Pack extra socks (wool or synthetic) to swap out when soaked.
Gear: A sleeping bag rated for -15°C (5°F) or lower, a four-season tent with a strong rainfly, and trekking poles for stability on slick terrain. A 3-4L hydration system keeps you drinking despite the damp.
Extras: A dry bag for electronics, quick-dry towels, and a headlamp with spare batteries for foggy nights. Sunglasses and SPF 50+ are vital if the sun breaks through.
Physical and Mental Fortitude
Training: Prep for 3-4 months with cardio (running, swimming), long hikes in rain or mud, and strength exercises (squats, calf raises) to mimic Lemosho’s demands. Wet-weather hikes build resilience.
Acclimatization: Leverage Lemosho’s extra days—linger at Shira 2 (3,850 m) or Karanga Camp (3,995 m) to adjust. Hydrate (4-5L daily) and eat heartily despite damp appetites.
Mindset: Brace for soggy clothes, obscured views, and summit snow—know altitude sickness signs (fatigue, dizziness) and push through with determination. March tests your spirit as much as your body.
Weather and Challenges in March
Conditions: March teeters between dry and wet seasons—early in the month, you might snag moderate temps (0–25°C / 32–77°F) and low rain, but mid-to-late March unleashes daily showers, snow above Barafu, and thick clouds. Trails turn muddy, rocks slicken, and gear stays damp without sun to dry it.
Challenges: Wet conditions amplify difficulty—slippery ascents like the Barranco Wall demand focus, while altitude sickness looms above 4,000 m. Snow at Barafu and the summit adds cold and traction issues, and limited visibility can dampen morale. Yet, fewer climbers mean a raw, unfiltered Kilimanjaro.
Crowds on the Lemosho Route in March
March sees a sharp drop in climbers compared to January or February, especially post-mid-month as rains intensify. Lemosho’s length—unlike the compact Marangu—keeps even these modest crowds spread thin, offering a near-solitary trek. Early March might host a trickle of holdovers from the dry season, but later weeks feel deserted, granting you quiet camps and a personal bond with the mountain. This solitude enhances safety (less strain on trails) and serenity, though it requires self-reliance if help is sparse.
Benefits of Climbing in March
Despite the wet, March offers distinct perks:
Lush Scenery: Rain revives the lower slopes, painting rainforests and heathlands a vivid green against the summit’s snowy crown.
Full Moon Magic: Late March climbs align with lunar cycles, illuminating campsites and plains in an ethereal glow.
Fewer Crowds: The solitude fosters a deeper connection to Kilimanjaro’s wild soul, free from the high-season bustle.

Accommodation Along the Route
Pre/Post-Climb: Cozy lodges in Arusha or Moshi (e.g., The Maridadi Hotel) offer warm beds and hot showers to bookend your trip.
On the Mountain: Tented camps like Mti Mkubwa, Shira 2, and Barafu provide basic shelter—your crew sets up tents, but March’s rain tests their waterproofing. Pack a quality sleeping pad for comfort.
Permits and Fees
Cost: $800-$1,000 per person for NCA fees (park entry, camping, rescue), plus guide/porter costs (~$1,500-$2,000 total via a reputable operator).
Process: Book through a licensed outfitter; permits are included in Lemosho packages, valid year-round including March.
Why March on Lemosho Resonates
March transforms the Lemosho Route into a test of grit and a feast for the senses—lush lowlands, misty plateaus, and a summit softened by snow, all yours in near solitude. The rain and clouds may veil Kilimanjaro’s full glory, but they gift a primal, uncrowded adventure. For those who thrive on challenge over comfort, it’s a rare chance to claim Africa’s peak in its moody, wet embrace.