The Best Time to Visit Tanzania depends on what you want to see. From June to October, the dry season is perfect for spotting animals, as they gather around waterholes.

If you visit in February, you’ll catch the wildebeest calving season, an amazing time to see newborns and predators in action. Even during the rainy months, Tanzania has its charm, with fewer visitors and stunning, green landscapes.

Thus, it has been established that every season has something special, so it’s all about choosing the right time for your Tanzania Safari. Let’s explore the seasons and how they can make your trip memorable.

Various Seasons of Tanzania & Their Significance

All the Tanzania’s seasons offer something special throughout the year. The best time to visit Tanzania often depends on what you want to experience.

It’s important to note here that Tanzania experiences not the usual summer, and winter seasons but the dry season and wet seasons.

Let’s explore each season and understand what they have in store for the safari travellers:

Highlights of Tanzania’s Seasons

June to October (Dry Season)

These are the most popular months for a Tanzania safari. The weather is sunny and pleasant, with animals gathering around waterholes. July and August are peak months for witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration and river crossings in the Serengeti.

December to February (Dry Season)

Wildlife viewing is excellent, and the landscapes are lush. January and February are especially exciting due to the wildebeest calving season in the southern Serengeti, where you can see baby animals and predators in action.

March (Wet Season)

Rain begins during this month, making the parks greener and vibrant. It’s also a great time for bird watching and enjoying fewer crowds, offering a more personal safari experience.

April to May (Wet Season)

These months bring heavy rains, but the scenery is stunning with greenery all around. While some roads may be harder to navigate, parks are peaceful, rates are lower, and the views are breathtaking.

November (Wet Season)

Short rains refresh the landscape, bringing blooming flowers and green forests. Wildlife viewing remains good in the northern parks, and the lower number of tourists makes it a quieter time to visit.

In the next section, let’s go a little deeper into understanding detailed insights about Dry Season and Wet Season in Tanzania.

Dry Season in Tanzania

The dry season is one of the most popular times for a Safari in Tanzania. Why? The weather is sunny and dry, making it ideal for spotting wildlife. Animals gather around waterholes and rivers, making them easier to see during game drives.

With clear skies and temperatures ranging between 25–27°C, it’s a comfortable time to explore. Especially, the months of July and August are perfect for watching the dramatic river crossings in the northern Serengeti.

However, like any season, there are pros and cons to consider.

Advantages of Traveling During the Dry Season

• Great weather for safaris with clear skies and no rain.
• Perfect time to see the wildebeest migration and river crossings.
• Comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
• Fewer mosquitoes and excellent road conditions.
• A good season for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with clear views.

Things to Consider When Travelling to Tanzania in the dry season.

While the dry season is amazing, it does come with a few downsides. Accommodations and Tanzania Safari Packages can be more expensive, and popular parks may be busier due to the high number of tourists. Unique lodges and camps fill up quickly, so it’s important to plan if you’re travelling during this season.

But, if you’re looking for quieter parks and lower costs, then try to visit Tanzania in the wet season.

Wet Season in Tanzania

The wet season in Tanzania, also known as the rainy season, transforms the country into a lush green paradise. The landscapes are at their most vibrant, with blooming flowers and thriving forests creating breathtaking views.

Bird enthusiasts will find this season particularly rewarding, as migratory and local birds add a splash of colour and activity to the parks.

With fewer visitors, the parks offer a quiet and more intimate safari experience, perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape. Additionally, lower travel costs during this period make it an attractive option for budget travellers.

Advantages of Visiting Tanzania During the Wet Season

• Vibrant landscapes with lush greenery, colourful flowers, and thriving wildlife.
• Exceptional wildlife viewing in northern parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, year-round.
• Bird watching is at its peak, with a mix of migratory and local bird species.
• Lower safari costs make it a more budget-friendly time to visit.
• Less crowded parks provide a peaceful and intimate safari experience.
• Wildlife appears healthy and well-fed due to abundant resources.

Things to Consider When Traveling to Tanzania in the Wet Season

Travelling during the wet season has its unique charm but also comes with a few challenges.

Rainfall can make certain roads muddy and difficult to navigate, especially in remote areas. If you’re planning to explore less-developed parks, it’s essential to consider vehicle accessibility.

The humid weather also brings an increase in mosquitoes, so carrying mosquito repellents and wearing protective clothing is crucial for your comfort and health.

Afternoon showers are common during the wet season. While they are usually brief, they can occasionally disrupt planned activities. Travellers should remain flexible and plan for some downtime in between excursions.

Despite these minor inconveniences, the serene atmosphere and affordable rates make the wet season a rewarding time to experience a Tanzania safari.

What are Tourism Seasons in Tanzania?

Apart from wet and dry seasons, Tanzania’s tourism seasons can be divided into three main categories: high, mid, and low.

These seasons align closely with the country’s wet and dry seasons. Each one offers unique experiences and challenges, allowing you to choose the best time to visit based on your budget, preferences, and travel goals.

High Season (January, February, June to October, and December)

The high season is the most popular time to visit Tanzania, offering perfect weather and the best wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s an ideal season for enjoying safaris and beach holidays.

• Sunny and pleasant weather, great for safaris and outdoor activities.
• Best wildlife viewing, including the wildebeest migration.
• High demand means parks and attractions are often busy.
• Hotel and tour rates are the highest, with unique accommodations often fully booked.

Mid-Season (March, November to mid-December 21st)

The mid-season strikes a balance between the high and low seasons. It’s perfect for travellers seeking moderate prices and fewer crowds while still enjoying decent weather.

• Moderate rates for hotels and tours.
• Fewer tourists compared to the high season.
• Some attractions may have limited availability.
• Variable weather, with occasional rainfall.

Low Season (April and May)

The low season is the quietest time to visit Tanzania and offers the most affordable options for travellers who don’t mind some rain. It’s perfect for a peaceful and budget-friendly trip.

• Lowest rates for hotels and safaris.
• Least crowded parks and attractions.
• Heavy rainfall can make travel plans challenging.
• Some lodges and camps may be closed during this period.

Every season in Tanzania offers something special, making it a wonderful destination all year round. No matter when you visit, Tanzania’s beauty and wildlife promise an unforgettable experience.

Month-by-Month Guide to the Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania’s weather varies throughout the year, creating unique opportunities for every kind of traveller. This guide will help you understand Tanzania’s weather and plan your visit based on the best conditions for safaris, beach holidays, and other adventures.

January and February

The weather is warm, with temperatures averaging between 28°C during the day and 17°C at night. These months mark the short dry season, perfect for game viewing and exploring Tanzania’s national parks. It’s also the Best Time to Visit Tanzania to see the calving season in the Serengeti.

March to May

This is the long rainy season. March and April experience heavy rains, creating lush landscapes. While wildlife viewing may be challenging due to muddy roads, bird watchers will find this an ideal time for spotting migratory birds. May starts to see reduced rain and fresh, green scenery.

June to October

The long dry season, known as the best time for safaris, boasts clear skies and pleasant weather. Temperatures average 25°C during the day and drop to around 13°C at night. The lack of rain means wildlife gathers around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. Parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro are at their best during this period.

November and December

These months experience short rains, but the showers are brief and do not disrupt travel plans significantly. November is ideal for bird enthusiasts, while December brings pleasant weather, making it a popular time for holiday visitors seeking a mix of safaris and Zanzibar beaches.

Weather Table: Tanzania Month-by-Month

Month	Max Temp (°C)	Min Temp (°C)	Sun Hours/Day	Rain Days/Month	Rainfall Level
January	28°C	17°C	7	17	Low
February	28°C	17°C	8	14	Medium
March	28°C	17°C	7	17	High
April	27°C	17°C	7	17	Very High
May	26°C	16°C	7	8	High
June	25°C	13°C	8	2	None
July	25°C	13°C	8	2	None
August	26°C	13°C	8	2	None
September	28°C	14°C	8	1	None
November	30°C	17°C	8	10	High
December	29°C	17°C	7	19	High

Plan Your Trip

Tanzania is a year-round destination, with something extraordinary to offer every month. Whether you want to witness the Great Migration, relax on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches, or enjoy bird-watching in lush landscapes, there’s always a perfect time to visit.

Start planning your trip today to experience the best of Tanzania. Let us help you craft your dream adventure!