Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro at night is a unique and awe-inspiring experience that offers the chance to witness a stunning sunrise from the highest point in Africa. However, it is a physically demanding endeavor that requires proper preparation, including acclimatization, the right gear, and a guided tour with experienced guides and porters to ensure safety and success.

Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is the highest mountain in Africa and one of the most popular trekking destinations in the world. Every year, thousands of people attempt to reach its summit, Uhuru Peak, which stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. While the approach to high camp takes several days, the final ascent is typically done at night.

There are several reasons why we climb Kilimanjaro at night.

It’s standard practice in mountaineering to start the summit bid of most alpine peaks during the night. The main reason is that colder temperatures make for more favorable terrain.

Having a frosty atmosphere reduces the likelihood of avalanche or rockfall by holding things in place. For the same reason, cold temperatures make the ground more stable, which is especially important when walking with crampons on snow and ice. The sun can cause the snow and ice to melt, making the path more slippery and hazardous.

Mount Kilimanjaro

It’s a peak that doesn’t normally require the use of crampons. However, the trail to the summit is comprised of volcanic rock, sand and screen. During the day, these elements are very loose and ascending on this terrain can burn a lot of energy.

Climbing at night means that the surface is usually frozen, making it easier to traverse. Therefore, summiting at night requires less energy.

1. Better Time Management

The trail to the summit and back, plus the descent to the final campsite is long. That means you need time to complete it.

To reach the summit from Base camp requires 6-8 hours. The subsequent descent to the last campsite usually takes 4-6 hours. That adds up to 10-14 hours on the trail, not including the long break we take upon returning to Base camp.

There simply aren’t enough hours in the day to start and finish the hike in the daylight. Leaving for the summit in the middle of the night ensures that there is enough time to go the summit and make it down to camp before the sun sets. Typically, our clients leave for the summit at midnight and reach the last camp in the midafternoon.

In the event there’s an emergency, we would rather have more time and more daylight to bring you to safety.

Going down on the trail in the dark increases the chances of slips and falls, and it’s something we really want to avoid.

2. To See the Kilimanjaro Sunrise.

Our guides try to time their ascent so that the trekking party reaches the summit just after sunrise.

This is a truly special moment, as the first rays of the sun light up the sky and the surrounding landscape, creating a breathtaking panorama. It’s a magical and unforgettable experience that many climbers cherish for years to come. This particular event is what many people talk about when recounting their experience on the mountain.

The visibility on Mount Kilimanjaro is usually excellent in the early morning.

So, by being on the summit at this time, the chances for a clear, expansive view are very .high