Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Seasons Of Tanzania

Tanzania is a wonderful place to visit year-round, but some months (seasons) are especially great for a Safari in Tanzania. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide the Best Time to Visit Tanzania.

June to October (Dry Season)

This is the Best Time of Year to Visit Tanzania for a safari. The skies are sunny, and you’ll see lots of animals gathered around waterholes. July and August are popular for spotting the famous wildebeest migration and thrilling river crossings in the Serengeti. The weather is pleasant, with fewer visitors, making this time ideal for viewing wildlife.

December to February (Dry Season)

These months also offer excellent safari weather, with clear skies and good wildlife sightings. January and February are special, as it’s the calving season in the southern Serengeti. This time brings many baby animals and attracts predators, making it exciting for those who love watching wildlife behaviour.

March (Start of Wet Season)

Rains begin, turning the landscapes green and lush. This month is a favourite for bird watchers and those looking for a quieter safari experience. Parks are less crowded, and prices are often lower, which is perfect for a budget-friendly Tanzania Safari Holiday.

April to May (Wet Season)

Heavy rains come during these months, making some roads harder to travel on. However, the scenery is stunning, and the Tanzania National Parks are peaceful, with fewer tourists. April and May are great for those wanting a calm and affordable safari experience.

November (Short Rains)

Short rains begin, bringing blooming flowers and green landscapes. The parks are less crowded, and wildlife is still visible in northern areas. It’s a lovely time for exploring at a slower pace.

In short, the Best Time to Travel to Tanzania depends on your interests. For sunny days and lots of wildlife, June to October and December to February are top picks.

For a more relaxed, budget-friendly trip, the rainy months offer lush views and lower rates, making them a hidden gem for Safari Tours in Tanzania.

Dry Season Of Tanzania

The Dry Season is often seen as the Best Time to Visit Tanzania for a safari. During this time, animals gather near rivers and waterholes, making them much easier to see. The weather is ideal for being outdoors, with clear skies, warm temperatures around 25-27°C, and no rain. This season creates the perfect conditions for exploring and enjoying game drives in the safari parks.

A highlight of the dry season is the famous Serengeti Wildebeest Migration. In July and August, you can watch thousands of wildebeests crossing rivers in the northern Serengeti. This natural event draws many visitors and is a must-see. With fewer mosquitoes around, it’s also more comfortable, and roads are in better shape, allowing easy access to parks and smoother game drives.

For those wanting to Climb Kilimanjaro, the dry season is ideal too. Clear blue skies and cooler morning and evening temperatures make the climb more comfortable. 

The dry season months are January to February and June to October, with late December offering similar conditions. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide if this season is right for your Tanzania Safari.

Pros of Traveling During the Dry Season

• Animals are easier to see around rivers and waterholes.
• Warm, sunny days with no rain make for perfect safari weather.
• July and August are great for seeing the wildebeest migration.
• Fewer mosquitoes, which means a more comfortable experience.
• Good road conditions for easy travel and smoother game drives.
• Best time to visit southern parks, while northern parks stay accessible all year.
• Cool mornings and evenings are ideal for Kilimanjaro climbing.
• Clear skies give amazing views for photos and sightseeing.

Cons of Traveling During the Dry Season

• Higher costs for lodges and safari tours.
• Popular lodges can book up quickly, so early planning is important.
• More visitors mean busier parks and lodges.

For most visitors, the Best Time to Travel to Tanzania is during the dry season, but it’s a good idea to book early to get the best choices in accommodations and tours.

Wet Season Of Tanzania

The wet season in Tanzania, or the rainy season, offers a unique and colourful safari experience. During this time, the landscapes come alive with bright greens and blooming flowers, creating a beautiful setting for a Safari in Tanzania. This season is also great for bird-watching, as many bird species are active. The parks are quieter, so you can enjoy a more private safari. Plus, lower rates make this an affordable time to visit.

Pros of Traveling During the Wet Season

• Landscapes are green and full of blooming flowers.
• Wildlife viewing is still good in northern parks year-round.
• Amazing for bird-watching with many colourful species around.
• Animals are healthy and active with plenty of food.
• Lower rates make safaris more budget-friendly.
• Fewer visitors, so parks feel more private and peaceful.

Cons of Traveling During the Wet Season

• Some roads may be muddy and harder to travel on.
• There may be more mosquitoes around.
• Afternoon rain showers can sometimes change plans.

Alongside the dry and wet seasons, Tanzania Tourism has high, mid, and low seasons, each with its benefits. This helps you find the Best Time to Visit Tanzania based on your preferences. Learn about the high, mid, and low seasons in the next section. 

What Are The High, Mid, And Low Seasons In Tanzania?

This particular classification of Tanzania Safari Season into the group of high, mid, and low seasons is based on a tourism point of view. The weather, costs, and experiences vary depending on the season. 

Hence, choosing the proper season is essential for arranging a good Safari in Tanzania. 

• High Season: January, February, June to October, December
• Mid-Season: March, November to mid-December
• Low Season: April, May

High Season 

The high season is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari, with clear skies, warm days, and the famous Wildebeest Migration through the Serengeti. This season promises fantastic wildlife viewing, pleasant beach days, and easy travel across the country.

Advantages 

• Ideal weather for safaris and beach days
• Prime wildlife viewing, including the great migration
• Most tourist services and activities are available

Disadvantages

• Parks and attractions are often crowded
• Hotel and tour prices are highest
• Popular hotels are frequently fully booked

Mid-Season

The mid-season provides a balance between peak and low season. With fewer crowds, lower rates, and generally good weather, it’s a good choice for travellers seeking comfort without the busy atmosphere on Safari Tours In Tanzania.

Advantages 

• Moderate hotel and tour prices
• Fewer tourists, providing a quieter experience

Disadvantages

• Some activities may have limited availability
• Weather can be unpredictable at times

Low Season

The low season is perfect for budget travellers or those looking for a serene atmosphere. With some rain, the landscapes turn lush and green, making for beautiful views, though travel conditions might be affected.

Advantages 

• Lowest rates for hotels and tours
• Parks and attractions are the least crowded

Disadvantages

• Some lodges and camps may close temporarily
• Rainy weather can impact travel plans