A Kilimanjaro Full Moon Climb is a special night-time adventure where climbers aim to reach the top of Uhuru Peak when the moon is shining brightly. The whole mountain looks different in the moonlight—it’s like a magical world! The ice on the mountain glows and sparkles, making it feel like you’re in a fairy tale.
The best time for a Kilimanjaro Full Moon Climb is when the full moon aligns with the time you plan to reach the summit of Uhuru Peak which it is likely to occur every end of the month. But full moon dates change each month, so planning your climb around a specific full moon requires checking the lunar calendar and coordinating it with your trekking schedule.
Pushing your limits on a captivating journey to the summit while basking in the radiant glow of the moon.
The appeal of a Kilimanjaro Full Moon Climb lies in the combination of natural beauty, unique experience, and the chance to summit Africa’s highest peak under the enchanting glow of the full moon, making it a sought-after and memorable adventure for climbers. The below are some of the reasons why Kilimanjaro full moon climb is popular.
Kilimanjaro Full Moon Climb offers a unique and visually striking experience, showcasing the mountain’s beauty in a different light and creating memories that are both magical and extraordinary. Here are things you will get to enjoy during your climb.
As you join our team of expert guides and fellow adventurers for an extraordinary ascent to the summit.
Getting ready for Full Moon Treks on Mount Kilimanjaro requires additional considerations since the ascent occurs during nighttime. Various unpredictable challenges may arise, prompting the need for careful preparation. To assist you in gearing up for this unique experience, we’ve compiled some essential tips.
Physical Fitness: Undertaking a Full Moon Kilimanjaro Climb is inherently more demanding, necessitating optimal physical fitness. Climbers should prioritize being in excellent shape, incorporating a regular exercise routine into their preparations.
Clothing and Gear: Climbing Kilimanjaro under a full moon exposes climbers to cold and dry air at higher elevations. Dressing in layers is crucial to combat the chilly conditions. Additionally, packing suitable hiking boots with robust ankle support and comfortable socks is essential for a comfortable and safe ascent.
Altitude Sickness Prevention: The elevated altitudes during the climb pose a risk of altitude sickness—a potentially hazardous condition arising from reduced oxygen levels. Climbers can mitigate the chances of Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness by staying well-hydrated, taking necessary breaks, and ascending gradually. These precautions are vital for a safer and more enjoyable trek under the full moon.
Embarking on a full moon climb on Kilimanjaro can be a enchanting adventure, but prioritizing safety is paramount. Here are key safety considerations to bear in mind when planning such a climb:
Weather: The full moon climb typically aligns with the dry season, offering favorable weather conditions. Despite this, vigilance is crucial, and climbers should stay updated on the weather forecast, preparing for any unexpected changes.
Altitude: Kilimanjaro’s elevation poses a notable risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization, adequate hydration, and attentiveness to signs of altitude sickness are essential precautions for climbers.
Navigation: Limited visibility during a full moon climb underscores the importance of reliable navigation tools. Ensure you have a trustworthy map, a compass, and a headlamp with extra batteries for emergency situations.
Equipment: Nighttime climbs under the full moon entail a significant drop in temperatures. Bring additional layers of clothing and appropriate gear to stay warm and dry throughout the ascent.
Group Safety: Prioritize the safety of the climbing group. Stick together, maintain regular communication, and watch out for one another. If any member experiences issues like altitude sickness or injury, take prompt and appropriate action, seeking help if necessary.
From our selection of fully customizable climbs, providing a unique experience on the mountain.
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon January |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon February |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon March |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon April |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon May |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon June |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon July |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon August |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon September |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon October |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon November |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon December |
Month |
Dates |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon January |
25th 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon February |
22nd 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon March |
15th 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon April |
19rd 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon May |
27th 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon June |
22nd 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon July |
20th 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon August |
19th 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon September |
17th 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon October |
15th 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon November |
22nd 2025 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon December |
21st 2025 |
Month |
Dates |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon January |
25th 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon February |
22nd 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon March |
15th 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon April |
19rd 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon May |
27th 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon June |
22nd 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon July |
20th 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon August |
19th 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon September |
17th 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon October |
15th 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon November |
22nd 2026 |
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Kilimanjaro Full Moon December |
21st 2026 |
In preparing for your Kilimanjaro Full Moon Climb, adhere to the following tips to optimize your Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages:
Ensure Adequate Preparation: Secure all necessary permits, gather essential equipment, and devise a well-organized itinerary. Stay informed about the weather forecast, trail conditions, and moonrise/moonset times.
Choose the Right Route: Kilimanjaro offers various climbing routes to the summit, each with its characteristics. Select a route that aligns well with the unique experience of a full moon hike.
Stay Hydrated: Guard against altitude sickness and dehydration by consuming ample water and other fluids throughout your hike.
Pack Appropriate Gear: Equip yourself with warm clothing, a high-quality sleeping bag, a reliable headlamp or flashlight, and other essential gear to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
Appreciate the Moonlit Landscape: Take advantage of the full moon’s illuminating presence, creating a surreal and unforgettable ambiance. Pause to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings and the rare opportunity to hike under the full moon.
Manage Altitude: Given the common occurrence of altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro, especially with rapid ascent, adopt a measured pace. Take your time, allowing your body to acclimate to the changing altitude for a more enjoyable and safer climb.
Embark on a transformative journey climbing Mount Kilimanjaro under a starlit sky, guided by the enchanting moonlight. Elevate your Kilimanjaro Full Moon Climb to an unparalleled level with the Serengeti Camping Safari.
Explore our diverse full moon summit group climbs every month by checking our Kilimanjaro climb trip calendar. Can’t find a date that suits you? Engage in a chat with us to discover how we can customize your trekking experience for that extra special touch.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, courtesy extends from Serengeti Camping Safari, your trusted tour operator, with a gracious meet and greet. Each group benefits from both an arrival and departure private transfer, facilitated by a dedicated driver in a private vehicle, ensuring seamless transitions between Kilimanjaro Airport and your hotel. During your two-night stay at the Arusha Hotel or Moshi, indulge in luxurious 5-star accommodations, where both breakfast and dinner are thoughtfully included on your first and last nights. These accommodations also provide secure storage facilities for any excess luggage throughout your hiking excursions. Plus, to facilitate your climb, there are scheduled return transfers between the hotel and the designated start/finish point, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to end of your adventure with Serengeti Camping Safari as your trusted guide.
Our packages cover all essential fees, including Kilimanjaro National Park gate fees, camping/hut fees, and climbing permits. Additionally, Kilimanjaro National Park rescue fees are accounted for by the dedicated Kilimanjaro Rescue Team. Your safety is paramount, which is why our chief guide meticulously monitors climbers’ blood-oxygen levels twice daily using a Pulse Oximeter. Emergency oxygen is available exclusively for emergency situations and not intended for summiting assistance. For any unforeseen circumstances, a comprehensive First Aid kit is readily available. Our experienced team comprises qualified mountain guides, assistant guides, porters, and a skilled cook, all compensated according to KINAPA guidelines, ensuring a safe and supported journey up Kilimanjaro.
Throughout your climb, we ensure a complete dining experience with three hearty meals provided each day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, complemented by a selection of hot beverages on the mountainside. Expect premium-quality and diverse culinary options meticulously prepared to cater to your tastes and preferences. Lunch breaks are transformed into moments of comfort and relaxation, featuring hot, freshly prepared meals at designated stops, complete with tables, chairs, and an interior mess tent to shelter from inclement weather conditions—excluding day one, where a packed lunch is thoughtfully provided. Your comfort and rest are paramount, facilitated by our superior camping equipment, comprising high-quality tents, comfortable sleeping mats, camp chairs, tables, and dedicated cutlery for meal times. To ensure a restful night’s sleep, indulge in our 10cm thick self-inflating sleeping mattress. Additionally, water for daily hygiene needs is provided, and our dedicated porters are at your service, carrying your duffel bag—capped at a maximum weight of 15kg/32 lbs—between campsites, allowing you to focus on embracing the journey ahead.
Your Kilimanjaro ascent with us not only promises an exhilarating adventure but also includes a range of thoughtful amenities and provisions for your safety and comfort. Upon successfully summiting, you’ll receive an esteemed Kilimanjaro National Park certificate, a testament to your remarkable achievement. Additionally, each hiker will enjoy complimentary provisions such as 3 liters of mineral water on the first day and 3 liters of purified water daily from the first night onward, ensuring hydration throughout your journey. Moreover, as a part of our commitment to your safety, all climbers receive a complimentary Flying Doctors membership, offering Emergency Helicopter evacuation in case of unforeseen emergencies (Terms and Conditions apply). To lighten your load during the summit attempt, a dedicated porter will carry your daypack. And for added warmth during chilly nights, each hiker will receive a comforting hot water bottle for their sleeping bag every night.
A full moon is the lunar phase when the Moon can be seen in its entirety from Earth. This stunning event occurs when Earth is positioned directly between the Sun and the Moon, resulting in the Moon appearing completely round and beautifully bright in the night sky. It's a celestial occurrence that captivates observers worldwide, happening approximately every 29 days. With 12 occurrences in a year, each full moon presents a unique opportunity to behold this breathtaking sight. Imagine, from the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, standing under the brilliant glow of the full moon, surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscape, adding an ethereal touch to an already magnificent experience. The convergence of reaching the peak and witnessing the full moon creates an unparalleled moment, a fusion of natural wonders that etches itself into one's memory forever.
The full moon, casting an ethereal glow across the landscape, transforms the climb on Mount Kilimanjaro into an enchanting and unforgettable experience.
Not everyone doing a nighttime summit bid will find it preferable to climb on a full moon as a new moon is actually far better for viewing stars, so many astronomy enthusiasts will aim to coordinate their summit bid with the time when the weather will be clearest and the night will be darkest.
However, before simply opting for the closest convenient full moon date, it’s helpful to be able to visualize in advance of the climb where the moon will be in the sky when approaching the summit from high camp.
In order to do this we recommend using the following tool. You can input your proposed climb dates, see when the moon will be full and then operate a simple slider to show the position and elevation of the moon in the sky as you progress through summit
The surreal moonlit landscapes, the exceptional sunrise at the summit, and the camaraderie among climbers under the enchanting full moon are some of the standout moments of the experience.
