Tanzania in August: Weather, Safari and More!

The overall average temperature in Tanzania during August ranges from 22°C (72°F) to 28°C (82°F). However, regional temperatures vary by quite a margin. Along the coast and on islands like Zanzibar, daily highs average between 27°C (81°F) and 29°C(84°F). The northern circuit around Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti remains relatively cool compared to the rest of the country, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C (63°F) to 22°C (72°F). Central and western regions like Dodoma see average highs around 27°C and lows dipping to 17°C.

August also faces the lowest amount of rainfall. While the southeastern highlands around Mbeya may receive around 50 millimeters of rain in August, most other regions see very little precipitation, averaging at 25 millimeters. The consistent sunny, dry weather makes August ideal for safaris and spotting wildlife gathering near scarce watering holes.

For more information, read our article on the best time to visit Tanzania.

With epic wildlife migrations, stunning landscapes, and pleasant weather, Tanzania entices visitors, especially in the month of August. Below are some of the primary reasons as to why you should plan your trip to Tanzania in August.

• Prime wildlife viewing opportunities: August brings prime wildlife viewing across Tanzania's parks and reserves. The annual wildebeest migration reaches the Mara River during this time, providing the chance to witness the dramatic river crossings in the Serengeti. Animals concentrate around scarce water sources as the landscape dries out, and they are easier to spot. The minimal vegetation and rainfall allow for clear visibility and ideal conditions for photography on safari. Ruaha National Park is especially abundant with wildlife activity.
• Ideal weather for outdoor adventures: August provides favorable dry weather for safaris and other outdoor adventures in Tanzania. Coastal regions remain warm and sunny, creating excellent beach conditions on Zanzibar and other Indian Ocean islands. The minimal rainfall makes for ideal conditions for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru. Activities like lake cruises, diving, and snorkeling also thrive around this time.
• Unique wildlife sightings: Some special wildlife spectacles happen in Tanzania during the month of August. Ruaha National Park offers the chance to observe African wild dog puppies emerging from their dens at this time. Large elephant herds amass in Tarangire National Park as vegetation becomes sparse. Flamingo flocks congregate at Lake Natron's alkaline waters. On the Indian Ocean islands, sea turtles peak hatching season, allowing visitors to witness baby turtles making their way to the sea.
• Celebrate the Mwaka Kogwa festival: The Mwaka Kogwa festival is a four-day celebration held from July to August on the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar. Commemorating the arrival of Shirazi Persians in the East African Coast, the first non-African settlers in Zanzibar, the festival marks the Persian New Year. Festivities include unique rituals, such as throwing fruit between two groups representing rival clans, intended to promote reconciliation and dispel grudges from the past year. Music, dancing, feasting, and elaborately decorated clothes also feature prominently.

 Serengeti National Park is the highlight for August visitors hoping to witness the annual Great Migration river crossings. As the dry season concentrates wildlife near water sources, the chance to see herds of wildebeest and zebras braving crocodile-infested waters offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Cool and comfortable daytime temperatures also make August an ideal time for sunrise safaris to spot the Big Five.

Ngorongoro Crater is another top August destination, as its high-altitude location brings pleasant weather for descending into the crater’s unique ecosystem. Large tusked elephants, rare black rhinos, and pink flamingo flocks thrive in the dry season in the open grasslands and mud flats. From leopards stalking the forests to buffalo herds stomping across the crater floor, Ngorongoro delivers superb wildlife viewing.

Further south, Tarangire National Park lures elephants in massive numbers as they gather along the Tarangire River during the dry season. Sparse vegetation also improves visibility for spotting wildlife and bird species.

The spice island of Zanzibar beckons with idyllic beach weather during August. Lower humidity coupled with cool southeast trade winds creates ideal conditions for relaxing on dazzling white sand beaches or exploring historic Stone Town. Clear waters tempt snorkelers and divers, while early mornings provide the perfect fishing conditions out on the Indian Ocean.

For trekkers, Mount Kilimanjaro offers an unforgettable challenge. The dry season provides the most favorable climbing conditions, with clear views, lower rainfall, and easier access to water on the mountain trails. Summit sunrises are spectacular, capping an achievement of a lifetime.

August in Tanzania brings ideal weather and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities during the peak of the safari season, with dramatic wildebeest migration river crossings in the Serengeti.

Reach out to our travel experts to plan a customized trip to Tanzania. You can also check out our Tanzania guide for more inspiration.

Related articles:
Tanzania in July
Tanzania in September 
Winter in Tanzania