Weather overview
Моши sits on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a climate that shifts between warm, dry periods and distinct rainy seasons. The weather in Моши remains mild year-round, with temperatures rarely straying far from 20–30 °C, but the amount of rainfall defines the rhythm of the seasons.
From June to October, Моши experiences its driest stretch, with clear skies and comfortable warmth. The rains return in March and April, bringing heavier showers, while November and May see shorter, lighter bursts. Travelers who prefer drier conditions often choose the months between June and October for their visit.
Temperature
Daytime temperatures in Моши hover around 25–33 °C for much of the year, with the warmest months—February and March—reaching up to 33 °C. Nights are cooler, especially from June to August, when lows dip to 17–18 °C, making evenings noticeably crisp.
The coolest period in Моши arrives in June and July, when daytime highs settle around 26 °C, and nights can feel chilly at 17 °C. By September, the heat gradually returns, peaking again in October before the short rains begin. Even in the warmest months, the altitude keeps the climate from becoming oppressive.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 19.5 | 32.8 |
| February | 19.7 | 33 |
| March | 20.3 | 33.1 |
| April | 19.9 | 28.8 |
| May | 19 | 26.5 |
| June | 17.5 | 26.1 |
| July | 17.1 | 26.7 |
| August | 17.4 | 28.3 |
| September | 18.6 | 30.1 |
| October | 19.3 | 32.7 |
| November | 19.8 | 31.9 |
| December | 19.6 | 31.5 |
Precipitation
Rainfall in Моши follows a clear pattern, with two distinct wet seasons. The long rains arrive in March and April, bringing nearly 200 mm of rain in April alone. A shorter rainy period follows in November, with around 85 mm of precipitation, while May and December see lighter, intermittent showers.
The driest months in Моши—June, July, and August—receive almost no rain, with totals under 15 mm each. September and October remain mostly dry as well, though occasional brief showers can occur. Travelers looking to avoid heavy downpours may prefer the stretch from June to October, when skies stay reliably clear.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 91.7 |
| February | 45.3 |
| March | 141 |
| April | 197.8 |
| May | 64.7 |
| June | 12.9 |
| July | 7.1 |
| August | 12.8 |
| September | 12.3 |
| October | 19.2 |
| November | 85.7 |
| December | 63.8 |
What to pack
For a trip to Моши during the dry season, lightweight clothing is ideal, but evenings in June, July, and August can be cool, so a light jacket or sweater is useful. A hat and sunscreen are essential year-round, as the sun remains strong even on overcast days.
If visiting Моши during the rainy seasons—March to May or November—pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella, along with quick-drying layers. Waterproof footwear is helpful for navigating muddy paths, especially in April, when rainfall peaks. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring, regardless of the season.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 2.9 |
| February | 3 |
| March | 2.7 |
| April | 2.1 |
| May | 2.4 |
| June | 2.2 |
| July | 2.3 |
| August | 2.5 |
| September | 2.8 |
| October | 3.3 |
| November | 3.1 |
| December | 2.5 |