Best Time To Visit Tanzania

Overview

January is a mixed bag in terms of weather conditions. The western region sees quite a bit of rain, while parks in the northern part, such as the Serengeti, experience a dry spell. The vegetation is lush, and it’s a great time for landscape photography and birding. Like the rest of the year, daytime temperatures are in the high 20s.

Overview

February falls right in the middle of the wildebeest calving season. This also sets the stage for exciting predator action. The dry spell continues in the northern part and along the coast, and it is one of the hottest months of the year.

Overview

The start of the long rainy season. If you are looking for a quiet time, you can consider visiting during the first half of the month. By the end of the month, the rain sets in firmly. Blooming flowers and dense foliage make the landscape beautiful. 

Overview

One of the wettest months of the year. Wildlife abounds, but heavy rains, slushy roads, and dense vegetation make safaris and wildlife spotting difficult. Many lodges in the southern and western circuits close.

Overview

It’s the last month of the wet season. If you are looking for fewer crowds, the second half of the month is a good bet—be ready for short downpours. The scenery is breathtaking and provides a dramatic canvas for photographers. Zanzibar is at its wettest.

Overview

The month starts lush and green, but by its end, dry conditions begin to make wildlife viewing easier. It’s the start of the peak tourist season in Tanzania and an excellent time for birdwatching and spotting big game. Mornings and nights can be chilly.

Overview

The Great Migration moves to the northern Serengeti with dramatic river crossings at the Mara River. If you want to escape the crowds, consider the parks in the southern and western regions. They are quieter, and the wildlife sightings are equally good.

Overview

Dry and cool conditions continue, and it’s one of the best times to visit Tanzania. Safari parks and beach accommodations are booked months in advance, so plan ahead. Day temperatures hover in the upper 20s C, while they dip to around 15°C at night.

Overview

Tourists start to leave, but the dry and pleasant weather conditions make September an excellent month to visit Tanzania. This is particularly true for the lesser visited parks on the southern and eastern circuits. It is also one of the best months to trek around Mt. Kilimanjaro and travel to the country’s beach towns.

Overview

By now, the Great Migration may have moved to Kenya, but there are plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities in Tanzania. The rains don’t start until later, and the first half of the month is an excellent time to visit. With the crowds gone, you can have a more relaxed experience.

Overview

The short rainy season starts with brief downpours that usually occur in the afternoon. Dry browns gradually turn into refreshing greens. Temperatures and humidity levels begin to rise.

Overview

The short wet season ends by the second half of December. The wildebeest herds are now in Southern Serengeti, and migratory birds arrive by the thousands. It’s a great time to experience the country’s incredible wildlife against a green background. Christmas and New Year are very popular times for tourists to visit.