Not just Kilimanjaro, but all of the peaks and summits in the area are climbed beginning at midnight. Winds are less common in the evenings and mornings. Mountain locations are frequently struck by strong winds and storms, especially after midday when the sun is at its strongest. These freezing gusts are so strong that they can drive climbers off the trail, leading them to tumble off the cliffs and die. As a result, climbers set up camp in locations where they may begin their ascent to the peak and return to their camp starting at midnight and concluding before noon.
