When to Visit Tanzania

The best time to embark on a Tanzania trip depends on your interests, whether you prioritize wildlife safaris, trekking adventures, cultural interactions, or unique seasonal experiences. But generally, the dry season from June to October is considered the best time to visit Tanzania. The weather is dry and comfortable around this time, and wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The Great Wildebeest Migration also takes place during this time, a must-see spectacle that should be at the top of any safari lover's list.If you are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the dry months of January to February and June to October present optimal trekking conditions. January to March is slightly colder but less crowded, while June to October offers warmer conditions with a higher chance of clear skies. The short rainy season from November to December and the long rainy season from March to May can be rewarding for birdwatching and experiencing Tanzania's lush, green landscapes. You will also encounter migratory birds and fewer tourists during these months.

January is the perfect time for a Tanzania trip if you are looking to indulge in some heavy adventure. The month falls within the short dry season of the country, which immediately follows the short rainy season in November and December. The landscapes are lush and green during this time, providing great wildlife viewing opportunities. Dry and sunny weather conditions of Tanzania in January are also Ideal for relaxing on the beach in Zanzibar or hiking up Mount Kilimanjaro.

Tanzania in February offers a perfect setting for exploring the country's natural wonders, especially the safari parks. While you won’t be able to catch the Wildebeest Migration itself, you will witness the wildebeest calving season in Serengeti National Park during the month, which is just as spectacular. Climb the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, hike the Usambara Mountain Range, or hit the pristine beaches of Zanzibar. There is no dearth of fun and exciting activities if you plan a Tanzania trip in February.

During March, Tanzania transitions from its short dry season to its long wet season called the “Masika” or “Green Season.” March is also when you can witness newborn wildebeests and migratory birds. As this is a transition month, taking a trip to Tanzania in March is also more budget-friendly. Whether you choose to embark on a Serengeti safari or explore the lush landscape of the Kilimanjaro rainforest, you have ample adventures while staying within a reasonable budget and with fewer tourists around. 

Tanzania in April offers a captivating blend of nature, wildlife, and history to adventurous travelers looking for something different. As the rainy season takes hold, Tanzania transforms into a lush paradise, with its landscapes bursting with life and color. While your chances of spotting the big five might be slim due to rain and poor game drive conditions, there are plenty of other adventures awaiting in Tanzania in April, such as birding in the Serengeti, exploring near-empty beaches in Zanzibar, or catching a deal at top accommodations, which still makes it a good time to visit this country.Planning a trip to Tanzania in April, you’ll be able to beat the crowd to indulge in this East African beauty taking your sweet time.

Favorable weather, fewer crowds, and incredible wildlife opportunities make May a good time to visit Tanzania. The warm temperatures, sunny skies and minimal rainfall are ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes of Tanzania and whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast looking forward to a safari adventure in the savannah, an adventure seeker looking to climb atop Africa’s highest peak, or a culture lover ready to explore Tanzanian tribes and history, a trip to Tanzania in May promises an unforgettable experience.

Abundant sunshine and bright skies welcome you if you tour Tanzania in June. Cool mornings and evenings, a plethora of wildlife highlights, and fewer interactions with mosquitoes are some of the perks of visiting this East African country during this time. As June ushers in the dry season in Tanzania, it is one of the best times to see the country’s wilderness and natural attractions. But as the month also sees an uptick in tourist footfall, expect tour and accommodation prices to go up compared to the low season. 

The dry weather condition in Tanzania in July makes it a great time to tour Tanzania to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, explore the breathtaking Ngorongoro Conservation Area, climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and more. As July falls in the middle of the high tourist season in Tanzania, tour and accommodation rates could be a bit on the expensive side. That said, the country is in its prime around this time of year. Travelers will get to enjoy all the high-season perks and facilities in Tanzania in July.

August falls in the heart of Tanzania's dry season. It is also the prime safari season in the country, thanks to the thin vegetation and cooler weather conditions. The month is also great for outdoor adventures, such as trekking in Mount Kilimanjaro, relaxing on Zanzibar beaches, and hiking in the Ngorongoro Crater. But since this is the high season, expect a spike in tourist crowds on your trip to Tanzania in August.

September is a magical time to tour Tanzania. As the cooler dry season sets in, wildebeest and zebras start their annual migration across Tanzania's vast Serengeti Plains in search of green pastures. Visitors will also find an abundance of wildlife in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Selous Game Reserve, and Tarangire National Park. Meanwhile, the white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of Zanzibar beckon. As visitor numbers ease between peak seasons, Tanzania in September also serves up quieter trails to hike the peaks of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro.

October is when Tanzania's weather is mostly clear skies and sunny days. Enjoy lakeside views, beach bathing and swimming, and excellent wildlife safaris. From hiking to the top of the highest mountain in Africa—Mount Kilimanjaro—to the thrill that comes with the Bagamoyo Festival, taking a trip to Tanzania in October is a wild dream come true.Read on to learn more about what to expect from this East African land of volcanic peaks and savannah in October.

Tanzania, in November, sees sporadic rain showers, but just enough to awaken the country’s dry landscape. Temperatures reach highs of 30°C and lows of 25°C during this time. If you brave the rain, you will be rewarded with lively, verdant views of the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, and plenty of other reserves. This is also the time of year when Tanzania receives much migrant wildlife coming in from Kenya. Then there are also the low-season perks to a Tanzania trip in November like sparse tourist crowds and attractive travel deals.

Tanzania’s short rainy season draws to a close in early December and gives way to the short dry. There are fewer tourists, and prices are also lower compared to the peak season, making this month a good time to tour Tanzania. As the country emerges from its short rainy season, so does the wildlife. Emerald grasses blanket the Serengeti and other national parks. December also brings ideal weather for lounging on Zanzibar's picturesque beaches. From going on safari adventures to beach lounging, traveling to Tanzania in December is a great option if you want to avoid tourist crowds and the high season rates.

Visit Tanzania in summer to witness the beauty of this East African country in all its glory. This is the perfect time to explore Tanzania’s much-famed game safaris, conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, and enjoy the pristine beaches of Zanzibar. Summer in Tanzania is characterized by clear skies and relatively dry weather, offering visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the country’s natural beauty, wildlife, and attractions in a comfortable setting. From Big Five game safari in Serengeti National Park to hiking the scenic Machame Route to the cultural tour of the Unesco-listed Stone Town of Zanzibar, a Tanzania tour during summer has a lot to offer.

Tanzania's proximity to the equator means the country experiences a tropical climate throughout the year, without distinct seasons and only minor variations in temperature. Technically, the period between June and September is considered the winter or dry season in Tanzania. It is that time of year when the country is bursting with natural beauty and wildlife activities. Winter in Tanzania is typically less hot and humid than other months. This means you can enjoy various activities, such as wildlife safaris, beach holidays, cultural tours, hot air balloon rides, climbing, hiking, and trekking. From the snow-capped mountains of Mt. Kilimanjaro to the vast plains of Serengeti, you will find plenty of adventure and sightseeing opportunities on your Tanzania tour during the winter season.

Rising majestically above the plains of Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters) can have varying weather conditions. The mountain's proximity to the equator means it experiences dry and wet seasons, rather than extreme seasonal changes.Although you can climb Kilimanjaro year-round, some months are much colder and wetter, creating poor visibility, muddy conditions, and snow at the summit. For this reason, most people find that the best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the warm, dry months. However, this means encountering more crowds.If you are considering a  trip to Tanzania and wish to try your hand at climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, this guide breaks down the different seasons and highlights that you should consider when planning your trip. Note: The average temperature and rainfall data provided for each month in this article are sourced from the closest city's available data, specifically from the city of Moshi.

Located about 23 miles off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is that picture-perfect island you’d imagine when somebody mentions the words ‘tropical paradise.’ Beautiful spice markets, over 25 ethereal beaches, and the historic Stone Town are what make Zanzibar famous.Weather-wise, the best time to visit Zanzibar is definitely the two dry seasons—June to October and mid-December to February. These periods are when the archipelago receives little to no rainfall, the currents are ideal for watersports, and the days are perfect for sunbathing. The dry season from June to October is when Zanzibar sees the highest influx of tourists. If you want to tour Zanzibar in the least crowded conditions and are not bothered by short spells of rain, then late November to early December is a good time to go. Besides being a must-visit tourist destination on a quintessential Tanzania trip, Zanzibar is open to entertaining year-round with its cultural festivals, sightseeing tours, and more.