Mountain weather is always unpredictable in whatever continent, but the following will give you an idea of typical temperatures and weather conditions at different times of year. Weather patterns change from year to year.

THE HIMALAYA

June, July & August: monsoon months, generally wet though with clear spells. The main season for trekking in Mustang, Ladhakh, Northern Pakistan & Tibet, which are in the rain shadow of the Himalaya. In most of Nepal expect rainfall and leeches!

September: cloud and rainfall still around in Nepal. Lush vegetation and wildflowers, hot at low altitude but pleasant trekking higher up. Still good trekking in Mustang, Ladhakh, Northern Pakistan and Tibet.

October & November: clear skies and good visibility. Most popular months for trekking in Nepal. Still warm at low altitude but above 4000m expect night temperatures down to –15°C by November.

December & January: good visibility and great temperatures for trekking below 2500m in Nepal. Light snowfalls a possibility and temperatures down to –20°C or colder at altitude. Elsewhere in the region, temperatures are too cold for enjoyable trekking.

February: still good visibility but starting to warm up during the day. Good trekking at low altitude but still cold higher up.

March: still good visibility and getting warmer. Wild flowers and rhododendrons start to bloom and a good time for birds. The festival season in Bhutan.

April to mid-May: hot trekking below 2500m but ideal conditions higher up. Mornings usually clear in Nepal, but cloud and haze build up in the afternoon. Good for birds and flowers. Pre-monsoon showers a possibility in Nepal, Bhutan and India.

EAST AFRICA

June to September & December to February: these are the two dry seasons, when the humidity is low but temperatures are warm, offering the best conditions for trekking. The stunning mountain views and the red earth of the vast African plains, under a blue sky dotted with puffy white clouds, are unforgettable sights.