Best Time for Tanzania
Let's Plan Your Safari

Best Time To Tanzania

Let's Plan Your Safari

Best Time To Tanzania

Tanzania, known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, offers a range of experiences throughout the year.

The Best Time to Visit Tanzania largely depends on the type of adventure you seek and the activities you wish to engage in. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons and their highlights:

Let's Plan Your Safari

When To Visit Tanzania

Dry Season (June to October): This is considered the Best Time to Visit Tanzania for wildlife enthusiasts. The weather is generally dry, with cooler temperatures, making it comfortable for both game drives and hot air balloon safaris. The famous Serengeti Great Migration typically occurs during this period, as millions of wildebeests and zebras move in search of greener pastures, attracting predators like lions and cheetahs.

Calving Season (January to February): If witnessing the birthing of wildebeests during the Great Migration appeals to you, this is the time to visit the southern Serengeti. It's a unique spectacle that draws wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Let's Plan Your Safari

When To Visit Tanzania

Shoulder Seasons (March to May and November): These months mark the rainy seasons, with occasional heavy downpours. While some lodges and camps might close due to the rains, this period offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates. It's a great time for birdwatching and experiencing the local culture.

Beach and Coastal Exploration (June to October): Tanzania boasts stunning coastal regions, including Zanzibar and the nearby islands. The dry season is perfect for enjoying pristine white-sand beaches, clear waters, and water sports like snorkelling and diving.

Let's Plan Your Safari

When To Visit Tanzania

Cultural Encounters (Throughout the Year): Tanzania's rich cultural diversity is celebrated year-round. Engage with local tribes, such as the Maasai, and partake in their traditions and festivals. These interactions provide a deeper understanding of the country's heritage.

Mount Kilimanjaro (January to March, September): While Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, the clearest skies and best visibility are typically found during the dry months of January to March and September. These periods offer comfortable trekking conditions, but early booking is essential.

Know the Best Months

When To Visit Tanzania

Tanzania in January

Beaches and new life

January is a warm, dry month, with only occasional short showers, usually at night.

It’s a prime time for a Safari In Tanzania as the wildebeest calving season starts on the Ndutu Plains, offering a chance to see baby wildebeests and predator action.

Kilimanjaro trekking and beach relaxation in Zanzibar are popular during this period, with comfortable weather for outdoor activities.

AVG RAINFALL 1.9 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.3 h
MAX TEMP 82°F
MIN TEMP 59°F

Tanzania in February

The calving season is here

February continues to be hot and dry, making it one of the Best Months to Visit Tanzania. The wildebeest calving season is in full swing, attracting predators, and making for dramatic wildlife encounters.

This month is excellent for northern and southern park safaris and beach holidays in Zanzibar. The clear skies and moderate temperatures also make February ideal for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

AVG RAINFALL 1.7 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.2 h
MAX TEMP 83°F
MIN TEMP 60°F

Tanzania in March

Heat peaks, rains approach

March begins with hot temperatures, and as the month progresses, the rains gradually increase, marking the start of the long rainy season.

Early March still offers good safari and beach experiences, but by month’s end, travel becomes more challenging due to rain.

The lush landscapes during this time bring a unique charm, but it’s recommended to check weather updates before planning a Tanzania Safari Tour.

AVG RAINFALL 2.6 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.1 h
MAX TEMP 82°F
MIN TEMP 62°F

Tanzania in April

Rainy days, peaceful safaris

April is the peak of the long rainy season in Tanzania, with frequent and heavy rains affecting travel conditions. Many lodges close, and roads can become difficult to navigate, which limits safari options.

However, this is also a time when the landscape turns a vibrant green, creating a picturesque setting.

April is best avoided for safaris, though it offers great value at lower prices for those who don’t mind the rain.

AVG RAINFALL 4.5 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.0 h
MAX TEMP 77°F
MIN TEMP 63°F

Tanzania in May

Migrating herds on the move

May continues the rainy season, but by the end of the month, the rains begin to ease. The lush greenery remains, but wildlife spotting can be tricky due to thick vegetation.

Tanzania Safari Packages are more affordable this month, and for bird watchers, it’s a rewarding time as migratory birds are still present. May is a quiet, peaceful time with fewer tourists around.

AVG RAINFALL 2.2 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.0 h
MAX TEMP 73°F
MIN TEMP 60°F

Tanzania in June

Peak safari season begins

June marks the start of the dry season and is considered the Best Time of Year to Visit Tanzania. The landscape is lush, and wildlife becomes easier to spot as water sources dry up.

This is when the Serengeti Great Migration began moving north. June also brings fantastic bird-watching opportunities, and with pleasant temperatures, it’s a great time for both safaris and Kilimanjaro trekking.

AVG RAINFALL 0.2 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 11.9 h
MAX TEMP 71°F
MIN TEMP 57°F

Tanzania in July

Mara River crossings await

July is a peak month for tourism, as the Best Tanzania Safari Tours are fully underway. The migration heads toward Kenya, and elephants gather in Tarangire National Park. Travelers can enjoy cooler weather, especially on early morning safaris.

For a quieter experience, the southern parks are excellent. July is also a great month for Zanzibar beaches, as the temperatures are cooler and dry.

AVG RAINFALL 0.1 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 11.9 h
MAX TEMP 71°F
MIN TEMP 56°F

Tanzania in August

Big wildlife and clear skies

August is cool and dry, making it one of the Best Times to Visit Tanzania. Wildlife is highly visible, with many animals gathering around water sources, and the famous river crossings are underway.

Lake Natron attracts flamingos, and Zanzibar offers clear waters for snorkelling and diving. This month is ideal for spotting the Big Five and enjoying Tanzania’s diverse natural beauty.

AVG RAINFALL 0.1 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.0 h
MAX TEMP 73°F
MIN TEMP 56°F

Tanzania in September

Low crowds, great for hikes

September is still in the dry season, offering outstanding wildlife viewing as animals gather at water points. The migration herds spread across the Serengeti and Masai Mara, providing a chance to witness crossings.

It’s a good month for combining safaris with beach relaxation in Zanzibar. This time also provides excellent game-viewing opportunities in popular spots like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

AVG RAINFALL 0.2 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.1 h
MAX TEMP 77°F
MIN TEMP 57°F

Tanzania in October

Big cats and great deals

October marks the end of the peak season, with the landscape starting to dry out. Many lodges offer discounted rates, making it a good value month.

The Serengeti still hosts hungry big cats hunting, and river crossings may occur in early October.

This month is ideal for those seeking value without compromising on wildlife sightings, as the parks remain lively with animal activity.

AVG RAINFALL 0.8 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.2 h
MAX TEMP 80°F
MIN TEMP 60°F

Tanzania in November

Birds return, rains refresh

November sees the start of the short rains, with sporadic showers typically in the late afternoon. While rain is more frequent, November offers great prices on Tanzania Safari Packages and vibrant green landscapes.

Migratory birds arrive, enriching the bird-watching experience. Although not a peak season, November can be a rewarding month for those looking for an affordable and quieter Tanzanian adventure.

AVG RAINFALL 2.1 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.3 h
MAX TEMP 80°F
MIN TEMP 61°F

Tanzania in December

Safari and beach bliss

December brings mild rains that taper off toward the end of the month. The holiday season attracts many tourists, so early bookings are advisable.

Migratory birds and wildebeest herds returning to the Serengeti make this an exciting time. Zanzibar’s beaches are ideal for relaxation, making December a perfect month for combining a safari with a beach retreat.

AVG RAINFALL 2.5 inches
AVG DAYLIGHT 12.3 h
MAX TEMP 80°F
MIN TEMP 60°F

We Guarantee 5-Star Service Excellence