Tanzania has two dry and two rainy seasons that alternate. No matter when you visit, daytime temperatures hover between 28°C to 35°C on the plains.
Dry season: June to October is the best time to visit Tanzania. It’s the dry season and also the peak tourist season, so you will need to book at least six months in advance to experience the country’s best national parks and game reserves. Temperatures are at their highest. With scarce water and other natural resources, this is your best chance to spot wildlife, including large predators. Waterbodies become a congregation point, presenting fabulous wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Short rainy season: During November and December, the country experiences short rainy spells. These are usually in the evenings and last around an hour or so. It’s a good time to visit if you want a quieter experience
Dry and hot season: The brief rainy period ends, and January in Tanzania is green. The wildebeest and zebra herds are in southern Serengeti, and the calving season is from late January to end-February. Expect lots of predator action in the Southern Circuit parks during this time. The coast is very hot and dry.
Long rainy season: March to May is the lean tourist period. Due to long spells of rain, temperatures are slightly lower, and the surroundings turn green. It’s not the best time to spot predators, but it’s a great time to see herds of grazing zebras and wildebeest. Many resorts are closed.
Great Migration: The migration happens all year round. July to mid-October is peak migration season in the Northern Serengeti and the Masai Mara, making it the best time to visit Tanzania for safaris. From December to April, the herds reside in the Southern Serengeti. Thousands of calves are born from late January to February, setting the stage for unforgettable predator-prey encounters. The herds travel to the Western Serengeti from May to mid-July.
Beaches: With clear blue skies and clearer waters, July to September is the best time to visit Tanzania’s beautiful beaches. It’s also perfect snorkelling weather.
Kilimanjaro: If you’re keen to explore the Kilimanjaro area, go between June and October or during January and February, when chances of rainfall are minimal.
Birding: To see Tanzania when the savannah is lush, visit during the rainy months from March to May or even in January. This is also the ideal time to spot an astounding variety of birds.
What you pack for your Tanzania holiday depends on where you are going and the activities you plan.
Safari – For safaris, clothing that allows you to blend in with your environment works best. Carry a light jacket for chilly mornings and evenings. Light, full sleeve T-shirts and trousers will protect you from insects and harmful UV rays.
Walking – Sturdy walking or hiking shoes are a must for Tanzania.
Sun protection – Sunglasses, sun hat, and sun protection cream are essential for Tanzania whether you’re on a safari or planning time at the beach.
Swimwear – If visiting one of Tanzania’s beaches or island getaways, don’t forget to pack a few cover-ups along with your swimsuits. It’s best to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and fall to the knees when you are not at your resort or beach.
No matter what your interests, our travel consultants will be happy to advise you on the best time to visit Tanzania. Contact us and let’s plan your holiday.
“Venture across the Manyara Treetop Walkway, a sky-high adventure through the beautiful forest of Lake Manyara. Walk among the treetops and experience untouched nature and wildlife from a unique perspective. This 370m airwalk starts with a short board-walk that gradually rises from ground level up through the canopy of the forest.”
“For a true wilderness experience head to the Selous Game Reserve. About the size of Wales, you can safari here without seeing another vehicle all day.”
“Consider a Serengeti hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye-view game viewing experience in Tanzania. A great spot for a balloon experience is in the Central Serengeti, where wildlife gathers year-round in the Seronera River Valley to drink from an everlasting water hole.”
Tanzania is the main venue for “the greatest show on Earth” – the Great Migration, spectacular wildlife viewing experience
You can combine the beach with a safari or visit more than one national park and see the Big Five in their natural environment.
While the Great Migration is the biggest draw of the Serengeti, there is plenty more to do here, including spotting the Big Five.
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