Are you curious about the best season to visit Tanzania for a fantastic safari? Don’t worry; we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to help you choose the best time to visit Tanzania.
Tanzania, a land of incredible wildlife, majestic mountains, and stunning beaches, is a year-round travel destination. However, the best time to visit Tanzania depends on your preferences and interests.
The dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing and safaris, while the shoulder season (April to May and November to December) offers fewer tourists and lower prices.
The wet season (March to April and November to December) is best avoided due to heavy rainfall.
Whether you’re interested in witnessing the Great Migration, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches, understanding Tanzania’s seasons and climate is crucial.
With its rich cultural tapestry, vibrant markets, and breathtaking landscapes, Tanzania embodies the best of Africa, making it a dream tourist destination for travelers around the world.
Here is a detailed overview of the best time to go to Tanzania!
Tanzania Weather by Month
This is a breakdown of the best time to visit Tanzania for a safari, according to months.
The Dry Season Tanzania
This beautiful nation has the long dry season that runs from June to October, which is Tanzania’s peak tourist season and high season, offering cooler temperatures, clear skies from early morning to evening, etc.
What to Expect Each Month of this High Season:
| June
The green season ends, and the savannah starts to dry out, making wildlife spotting easier, plus the Great Migration begins to head north. Large numbers of migratory birds remain visible.
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July
High season / Peak season starts, with the migration having reached the northern parts of Serengeti and heading toward Kenya‘s Maasai Mara through the river crossings, huge herds of elephants gathering in Tarangire, and the land becoming drier, making wildlife viewing easier. Visiting southern parks like Selous and Ruaha national park is recommended for those looking for fewer crowds.
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| August
The dry and cool weather makes it ideal for wildlife viewing in this high season as animals gather at waterholes like Grumeti River and in most northern parks. The Great Migration’s river crossings are a highlight.
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September
The peak season continues, with the migration spread across the Northern Tanzania Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara. It’s another excellent month for Mara river crossings, often seen when hot air ballooning or on game drives.
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| October
This is the final month of the peak season, as the dry season gradually fades away. One can still observe river crossings, partake in game drives, game viewing, etc., and the arrival of short rains is possible.
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Traveling to Tanzania during the dry season offers numerous advantages, including easier wildlife spotting, pleasant temperatures from early morning to evening, witnessing the wildebeest migration herds, better conditions for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, fewer mosquitoes, and better road conditions.
However, the approach also comes with drawbacks, including higher prices for logistics, accommodations and tours; quickly booked accommodations; and larger tourist crowds in national parks and lodges.
Therefore, we strongly recommend booking in advance to maximize your African safari during this dry season!
The Shoulder Season
The summertime is another perfect season to visit Tanzania for unforgettable safari experiences.
This typically spans from October to February and is often referred to as the “vuli” or short wet season / short dry season because it combines both short rains and short dry spells.
| October to March
· Great bird watching opportunities, with migratory birds arriving from November · Fewer crowds, making for a more exclusive safari experience, e.g., in Serengeti and Ngorongoro. · Sunny skies and dry weather, with occasional short rain showers · Moderate rates at the many lodges and camps, except during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. · Good wildlife sightings, particularly during the calving season (January to March) · Greater migration in southern Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, etc. · The low season/green season continues with lush landscapes in plain view. · Big cat activity in central Serengeti
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Calving Season in Serengeti National Park
It is a highlight of Tanzania’s shoulder season, also known as the green season, and takes place from January to March.
- Migration herds of wildebeest, antelopes, and zebras are giving birth to their young, especially in the Ndutu plains of the Serengeti National Park.
- Big cats and predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs are more active, preying on vulnerable newborns.
- Whale sharks migrating to Mafia Island and Zanzibar offer snorkeling and swimming opportunities.
- Dry hiking trails are perfect for easily climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro.
- Lush and green scenery because of the green season, ideal for good wildlife photography.
- Spot animals mating and rutting in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, etc.
- Migratory birds arriving in thousands because of the green season offering opportunities for bird watching.
- Great migration in southern Serengeti
Therefore, this low season / green season is a fantastic time to visit Tanzania’s national parks, such as Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Tarangire National Park, among other northern circuit safari national parks.
Visit Tanzania during this period and witness the circle of life and the beauty of nature in the nation’s incredible national parks.
The Rainy Season in Tanzania
The rainy or wet season in Tanzania typically occurs in two phases:
- Long rains (March to May, with the heaviest rainfall usually in April)
- Short rains (November to December, with occasional showers in October and January)
What to Expect Each Month;
| March
Temperatures are hot, and the migration starts heading west. Rainfall increases towards the end of the month, with the western and southern parks experiencing the most of the long rains. Late afternoon downpours are evident in the Ngorongoro Highlands.
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April
The long rainy season is in full swing, with torrential rains affecting travel plans. During this wet season, many lodges remain closed.
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| May
Rainfall continues, making good wildlife spotting more difficult. The lush vegetation is beautiful, but conditions are not ideal for travel in this wet season.
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November
The short rainy season / short rains begin that go to mid December, with short showers mostly confined to the evening. Prices are lower, and bird watching is excellent as the low season/green season continues in this wet season. Wildlife spotting in northern parks is still possible.
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| December
The short wet season is ending, with occasional short rains. It’s a wonderful time to visit Zanzibar, with rising temperatures. It is also good for bird watching as migratory birds start to come, especially in Selous and Tarangire national parks.
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Traveling to Tanzania during the wet season offers several advantages, including chances to spot lush green landscapes, enjoy bird watching tours with migratory birds being present, good wildlife viewing, lower rates for transport, tours and accommodations perfect for budget-conscious travelers, fewer crowds in national parks, and a peaceful atmosphere.
However, traveling during Tanzania’s wet season also has its drawbacks, including impassable roads and muddy trails making navigation hard, high closure of safari lodges, especially at the coast , western and southern parks lodgings, increased mosquito encounters, and potentially disrupted plans due to high rainfall and afternoon showers.
It is worth noting that because of these drawbacks, it is important to contact a Tanzania safari specialist to book your safari tours and ensure 4×4 safari vehicles are used to pass through the impassable roads.
Therefore, if seeking lower rates and fewer crowds, this is the best time to visit Tanzania for safari trips!
What to wear on safari in Tanzania | Clothing
This checklist is a list of essential clothing items to pack for a comfortable and memorable Tanzania safari experience.
- Sturdy shoes/hiking boots
- Warm clothes (fleece, wool, or synthetic)
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Insulating layers (scarves, neck gaiter)
- Long trousers and rain-resistant pants
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Warm hat and gloves
- Undergarments and socks
Please remember to pack smartly to avoid excess baggage and incurring extra costs!
What to Pack for Safari in Tanzania | Personal Essentials
When preparing for a Tanzania Africa wilderness adventure, don’t forget to pack essential documents and items, including passports, visas, travel insurance, and yellow fever cards.
Additionally, bring insect repellent creams, first-aid kits, medications, sunscreen, personal hygiene items, and sufficient cash and Visa-enabled credit cards in Tanzanian shillings.
If planning to hike Mt. Kilimanjaro, pack hiking gear, such as waterproof backpacks, sleeping bags, water bottles, and hiking sticks.
Other recommended items include energy snacks, reading material, GPS devices, phone chargers, travel adaptors, and laptops.
Before your safari trip, check with your local tour operator, safari Tanzania specialist, or park authorities for specific requirements and recommendations.
Best Season to Visit Tanzania FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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Is Tanzania Safe For Tourists?
Tanzania in East Africa is a safe destination for tourists to visit year-round, with popular attractions well-guarded by security personnel, but as with any travel, it’s essential to exercise caution and secure your belongings.
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What Is The Best Month To Go To Tanzania?
The best month to visit Tanzania is from July to October, when the dry season runs, offering easier wildlife spotting due to shorter grasses, coincidentally with the spectacular wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park.
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Is Safari Better in Tanzania or Kenya?
Both East African countries offer unique safari experiences.
Tanzania excels with its diverse landscapes, vast Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, and extensive wildlife population, including the Great Wildebeest Migration.
However, Kenya is ideal for time-conscious travelers or those visiting the Masai Mara between August and November, offering a more affordable and culturally rich experience.
Ultimately, both tourist destinations provide incredible wildlife viewing, high-quality accommodations, and opportunities to combine safari and beach vacations for better safari experiences.
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What Is The Rainy Season In Tanzania?
Tanzania experiences two rainy seasons: the ‘masika,’ or heavy rains from March to May, and the ‘vuli,’ or shorter rains from November to the month of January.
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When to Avoid Tanzania?
Avoid Tanzania during the rainy months of March, April, and May, as there is less safari activity to see.
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What Is The Safari Season In Tanzania? | What Is The Best Month For A Safari In Tanzania? | What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go On Safari In Tanzania?
The best time to visit Tanzania for safari is from late June to August, which falls in the dry season because it offers you perfect chances to witness the thrilling wildebeest migration along the Serengeti-Mara River crossing, the grandeur of the Ngorongoro Crater, and the concentration of wildlife around waterholes in national parks.
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When Should I Go To Zanzibar And Tanzania?
The best time to visit Tanzania and Zanzibar is June to October, as this dry season offers clear skies and pleasant weather, perfect for relaxation, exploration, and romantic getaways on Indian Ocean islands, making it an excellent choice for a honeymoon holiday.
In conclusion, Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best time to go depends on your tastes and preferences.
Consider the Great Migration, weather, and tourist seasons to plan your trip and enjoy the country’s stunning landscapes, wildlife, and culture.
Contact our team of professionals to customize the perfect Tanzania safari packages for you for memorable experiences!