1. Bushland/Lowlands (800-1,800m) – Warm & Humid

Temperature: 25-30°C (77-86°F)
Weather: Warm, humid, occasional rain showers
Terrain: Farmlands, grasslands, scattered villages

At the mountain’s base, the weather is hot and humid, similar to a tropical climate. Expect lush greenery and farmland.

2. Rainforest Zone (1,800-2,800m) – Warm & Wet

Temperature: 15-25°C (59-77°F)
Weather: High humidity, frequent rain, misty
Terrain: Dense forest, home to monkeys and birds

The rainforest zone receives heavy rainfall, especially during the wet seasons (March-May & November-December). Waterproof gear is a must!

3. Moorland Zone (2,800-4,000m) – Cooler & Drier

Temperature: 5-15°C (41-59°F)
Weather: Clearer skies, occasional rain and wind
Terrain: Shrubs, giant groundsels, and rocky trails

As you leave the rainforest, the landscape becomes more open and dry with misty mornings and chilly nights.

4. Alpine Desert (4,000-5,000m) – Cold & Windy

Temperature: -5 to 10°C (23-50°F)
Weather: Dry, dusty, intense sun during the day, freezing at night
Terrain: Rocky, barren, and little vegetation

With thin air and harsh winds, this zone feels like another planet. Sunscreen, lip balm, and layered clothing are essential.

5. Arctic Zone (5,000m+) – Freezing & Extreme

Temperature: -10 to -20°C (14 to -4°F)

Weather: Freezing cold, strong winds, possible snowfall
Terrain: Glaciers, ice fields, rocky paths

At Uhuru Peak (5,895m), temperatures can drop below -20°C (-4°F). The lack of oxygen, extreme cold, and strong winds make this the most challenging part of the climb.