Tanzania in February: Weather, Tips, and More
Home to an amazing array of wildlife, incredible natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, Tanzania is a year-round destination. But there are special perks to visiting Tanzania in February. The month is relatively dry, and popular tourist sites are less crowded, offering a perfect setting for exploring the country's natural wonders. Witness the wildebeest calving season in Serengeti National Park, climb the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, or hit the pristine beaches of Zanzibar. There is no dearth of fun and exciting activities if you plan a Tanzania trip in February.
- Dominic Heige
- From Greece
Tanzania Weather in February
The weather in Tanzania in February can range from pleasant to very hot, depending on where you visit. The maximum average temperature in Tanzania in February is 29°C (85 °F) during the day, while the minimum average is 18 °C (64 °F) at night. In the western and northern parts of the country, the temperatures are pleasant, while the southern regions see a combination of very hot and humid weather. If you plan to visit the highlands or mountainous regions of Tanzania, such as Mount Kilimanjaro or the Ngorongoro Crater, you can expect much cooler conditions. It is also worth noting that while Tanzania sees relatively dry weather in February, there can still be some rainfall, especially in the coastal regions.
For a seasonal overview of the country, read our guide on the best time to visit Tanzania.
Weather in Tanzania in February - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 31 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 29 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 30 | 30 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 23 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 20 | 19 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 19 | 21 | 22 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 88 | 88 | 88 | 86 | 83 | 85 | 81 | 83 | 85 | 86 | 86 | 86 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 74 | 72 | 72 | 72 | 68 | 67 | 65 | 63 | 63 | 67 | 70 | 72 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 90 | 120 | 170 | 240 | 210 | 40 | 30 | 30 | 20 | 80 | 130 | 100 |
| Jan | Feb | Mar | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 31 | 31 | 31 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 23 | 22 | 22 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 88 | 88 | 88 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 74 | 72 | 72 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 90 | 120 | 170 |
Why Visit Tanzania in February?
February in Tanzania falls in the shoulder season between the popular travel period from December through January and the low season of March and May. This affords you the perfect time and weather conditions to explore the country's top highlights. Here are some reasons why you should plan a trip to Tanzania in February:
- Wildebeest calving season: The wildebeest calving season in Serengeti National Park generally begins in January and continues into March, making February one of the best times to witness the spectacle. The dry weather conditions of February are also an ideal time to enjoy a wildlife safari experience in one of many national parks in the country.
- Festivals and events: February is a great time to visit Tanzania if you want to immerse yourself in local culture and festivities. Zanzibar hosts the Sauti za Busara music festival this month, which features African and Swahili music, carnivals, and parades. You can also participate in the Kilimanjaro Marathon, which usually occurs at the end of February or the start of March.
- Mountain climbing: February is one of the best times for mountain climbing in Tanzania. The weather condition is relatively dry throughout the month, so mountain trails are less slippery and more manageable for climbers. Besides, clear skies offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. If you are an experienced climber, try your luck climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. For a less challenging climb, consider summiting Mount Meru, which also allows spotting various animal and bird species.
- Fewer crowds: As February in Tanzania is the shoulder season for travel, you will find fewer tourist crowds in popular sites. This is an excellent time to enjoy a crowd-free safari experience. Traveling during the shoulder season also brings down the tour and accommodation costs. So if you are looking for an affordable way to explore Tanzania, February is your best bet.
Where to Go and What to Do
When you visit Tanzania in February, you can look forward to a diverse itinerary with plenty of exciting sites and activities. The incredible Serengeti National Park safari is a must-do activity in February, where you can catch the wildebeest calving season and spot various animal and bird species roaming around the thin vegetation. Other excellent options for a wildlife safari are Tarangire National Park and Ruaha National Park. February happens to be the best time to see migratory birds in these parks in full plumage. With fewer crowds around, you will have a better chance of spotting elusive wildlife species, such as leopards and aardvarks, and learning more about their behaviors.
Another fantastic destination to add to your Tanzania itinerary in February is the Zanzibar Archipelago. Dry weather conditions make a Zanzibar trip the perfect for an exquisite beach holiday experience. The island boasts many pristine beaches where water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving are done best in the dry season when the water bodies are clear. Hiking in the Usambara or Uluguru Mountains can be a fantastic experience for those interested in outdoor activities.
With so much to see and do, February is a good time to visit Tanzania if you want to beat the crowd and still make the most out of your trip. Affordable accommodation and amenities are a bonus. Enjoy a combination of cultural events, wildlife wonders, great weather, and stunning scenery when you visit Tanzania in February.
Read our Tanzania guide if you want to plan your Tanzania trip perfectly. You can also complete our customized Tanzania tour form to create your unique itinerary.
Related Articles:
Tanzania in January
Tanzania in March
Summer in Tanzania
Winter in Tanzania
