Best Time to Visit Tanzania for the Ultimate Safari

I’ve travelled on safari in Tanzania at various times of year and each expedition has been both incredible and yet very different.

I’ve written this in-depth guide to help you confidently choose the very best time to visit Tanzania for your perfect safari, Kilimanjaro hike, Zanzibar beach trip or all three!

It’s essential to be in the right place at the right time of year, depending on what you want to do and see.

For example, mid-July to September features dramatic scenes with thousands of wildebeests crossing the crocodile invested Mara River in Northern Serengeti.

January and February on the other hand, features action in southern Serengeti, with an owe inspiring 8,000 baby wildebeests being born per day surrounded by hungry predators.

To give you an idea of how much the landscape changes over the year, I’ve included two pictures below. Both photos show me looking out over Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania at two different times of year.

If you’re in a rush, I’ve detailed the best times for some popular actives below. However, with nature and wildlife things are not always quite that simple, so I’d recommend reading my comprehensive guide below to ensure you have all the information necessary to make an informed decision.

Activity	Best Time
Seeing the Big Five (lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards and buffalos)	All year apart from the long rains between mid-March and mid-May
Seeing lots of baby animals	January and February
Visiting Zanzibar	Long dry season from June to October.
Hiking Kilimanjaro	Mid-June to Mid-October and December to mid-March
Mara River Crossing – the highlight of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests cross the crocodile-infested river	mid-June to September and mid-October to mid-November

The Important Role of the Rains

The variable timing of the rains dictate the timings of most of the natural events in Tanzania. If the rains arrive a little early, the natural events will happen earlier and, conversely, if the rains come a little late, the natural events will happen later.

Month by Month Breakdown

Tanzania has something incredible to offer visitors in every month of the year and I’ve laid out what to expect below. I’ve combined similar months together to avoid getting overly precise due to the variable timings of the rains.

The timing of the rains dictate the timings of most of the natural events in Tanzania.

Treat these as a good general guide, whilst remembering the beauty of nature that it’s unpredictable and untameable.

For each month, I’ve provided the pros and cons, along with what you can expect in terms of weather, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.

January in Tanzania

Season: short dry season

January marks the start of the short dry season, however, the landscape is still lush and green from the preceding rains, providing excellent conditions for wildlife photography.

Whilst some argue that the denser foliage can make wildlife spotting a little more challenging, I’ve found that with an experienced guide, I’ve had just as many great wildlife sightings compared to the long dry season. A tawny lion stands out like a sore thumb against vibrant green grass.

Prices are lower compared to the upcoming peak season, Kilimanjaro is warm and dry and it’s also an ideal time to squeeze in a few days to chill and explore exotic Zanzibar in your itinerary.

In my opinion January is one of the best times of year to visit Tanzania as prices are slightly lower and the parks are less crowded. Contending with dozens of safari vehicles all jostling to get in the best position to view a cheetah stalking through the long grass can be a stressful experience, especially if you miss-out on the prime view, so going on safari at this time of year removes those situations entirely and instead makes the experience feel more special and intimate.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in January?

January marks the beginning of the short dry season and apart from a few possible late showers, in general, the weather is clear, sunny and warm.

Along the coast and on the islands it is usually warmer, with temperatures reaching a maximum of around 33° C.

In the parks in the western highlands on the northern circuit, the days are a little cooler with the mercury averaging around 30° C during the day but moderating at night.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F)	23°C to 25°C (73°F to 77°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F)	20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)

What are the Costs Like and How Busy are the Parks in January ?

With January being regarded as an off-peak season, accommodation costs are cheaper than other times of year and it’s an excellent period for visitors who are on tight budgets, although the overall safari experience remains similar.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in January

January marks the start of the calving season in the southern regions of the Serengeti. During this period over 8,000 baby wildebeest, zebras and other wildlife are born each day, drawing out high numbers of big cats and other smaller predators and scavengers. January provides one of the best opportunities to witness these super predators on the hunt.

Millions of herbivores gather to graze on the lush plains in the Ndutu Plains in the southern region, conditioning themselves in preparation for their upcoming arduous journey all the way up to the Maasai Mara plains in Kenya.  

January and February are exciting months for birdwatching in Tanzania as this period coincides with the northern hemisphere’s winter, prompting many migratory birds to seek warmer climates in Africa.

You can expect to witness the arrival of various migratory bird species from Europe and Asia, such as the European Bee-eater, White Stork, Barn Swallow, Yellow Wagtail, Common Sandpiper and Osprey.

Bird watching in January

January is prime bird watching season across Tanzania, as it coincides with the arrival of many migratory species from Europe and Asia, seeking to escape the harsh winters of the northern hemisphere.

This is also breeding time for many resident species, which are in their best plumage, putting up some dazzling courtship rituals to attract their mate. The dense foliage however, may make spotting them a little harder.

Hiking Kilimanjaro in January

Being the heart of summer, January is a popular time to hike Kilimanjaro.

There is still the possibility of rain, but the weather is usually pleasant and warmer, although it is always cold in the higher altitudes.

Regardless of the season, you can always count on experiencing sub-zero temperatures near and on the summit.

The skies should be clear in January, providing excellent conditions for photographers.

Zanzibar in January

January is the beginning of the hottest period in Zanzibar and although it can get humid, the cool breeze coming off the ocean makes it very bearable.

Although January is regarded as being in the dry season, some rains will still fall, but these don’t usually last for long. 

The sea is usually calm and clear in January with water temperature being around a rather warm 28° C, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and all other water sports. 

Further Reading

You can read my Tanzania in January guide for further reading and recommended January Itineraries.

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February in Tanzania

Season: short dry season

February is normally similar to January except it may be a little hotter with even less chance of showers.

A big pro of February over January is that the wildebeest calving is now in full swing with around 8,000 baby wildebeests being born every single day! The calving starts around mid-January and tends to go on until mid-March. I’d rate February slightly higher than January purely for this reason. However, on the flip side, it will be slightly busier than January because of this draw.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in February?

February is usually the hottest month of the year in Tanzania with temperatures reaching the lower 30s° C inland in the game parks and mid to upper 30s° C along the coast and islands. There are some chances of light rains, but the showers are typically confined to the afternoons and don’t last long.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F)	23°C to 25°C (73°F to 77°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F)	20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in February?

Some lodges in remote areas may be closed during February, but off-season accommodation prices still apply, which are far less expensive compared to high season.

Parks being less busy during February also make for more pleasurable game viewing.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in February

Although February is regarded as an off-peak season, game viewing is still excellent, particularly on the southern plains of Ndutu, where the calving season and subsequent big cat activity is in full swing.

The herbivores remain fairly inactive concentrating mainly on staying alive, feeding frantically on the lush grasses and foliage before the landscape begins to dry out. 

Bird watching in February

February is in the heart of the bird breeding season, with hundreds of local resident species and migratory species present across the entire Tanzanian landscape.

For photographers, lighting conditions are also at their very finest during the heart of summer, although the lush foliage may make it a little harder to spot the birds in some densely wooded areas.

Specialised birding safaris are arranged by several lodges and tour operators during this exciting period across all of the parks in Tanzania.

Kilimanjaro in February

For many hiking enthusiasts, February is the best month to hike Kilimanjaro for a number of reasons.

The weather is at its finest with warmer days and nights, less chance of rain and clear skies, perfect for stunning photos.

The weather conditions on the higher altitudes and especially on the snow-capped summit, are however, mostly sub-arctic throughout the year.   

Zanzibar in February

Although the weather is perfect, albeit a little on the warm side, February is still off-peak-season in Zanzibar and accommodation is less expensive compared to peak season.

Days are normally clear with a small chance of some light showers, making it ideal to wander the streets of the historic Stone City or soak up the sun along its miles of white sandy beaches. 

Temperatures can reach into the higher 30s with a humidity level of over 75%, but the gentle cool ocean breezes make life more comfortable.

The sea during February remains balmy, clear and warm, ideal conditions for a perfect beachside holiday and perfect for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking and all other water-related activities.

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March in Tanzania

Season: Long rainy season

March signals the start of the ‘long rains’ in Tanzania with heavy rainfall typically continuing throughout April and May. During this period the lakes, rivers and watering holes fill up while the nourished soils green up the grasslands and shrubbery, preparing the landscape for the invading migrating masses of wildebeest and zebras that will shortly be pouring through it.

The rains are more frequent and heavier than in any other period, and not ideal for safaris and beach side holidays along the coast or the islands.

On the other hand, the parks and lodges are the least busy and accommodation costs are at their lowest.

It’s worth noting that in recent years, predicting the rains at this time of year has become extremely challenging. Our changing climate means that some years the rains don’t come at all and so for those years this time of year is as good as any other. However, some years, such as 2024, the rains pour at an alarmingly high rate and cause flooding and landslides. Over 150 people were killed in the 2024 floods. Based on this unpredictability, I would personally avoid visiting at this time of year.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in March?

Temperatures in March often remain as high as in February, but with the heavy rains, the rising levels of humidity begin to make conditions less comfortable.

Flooding is possible at some national parks.

Whether you’re planning to visit the parks in the western interior, the coast or offshore islands, going there in March is a bit of a gamble.

If you cannot go at any other time, choose early March if possible, somewhat increasing your chances of having better weather.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F)	22°C to 24°C (72°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F)	15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F)	20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F)

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in March?

Costs at the parks or on Zanzibar Islands are at their lowest as the hotels and lodges are the least busy than during any other time of year and remain so for the next few months.

Camps in the Seronera area in southern and central Serengeti however, remain fairly booked up due to the abundance of wildlife in the region.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in March

Wildlife viewing remains excellent, particularly in the south eastern regions of the Serengeti around the Ndutu Plains, Seronera and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. There are many young animals around with big cats and smaller predators always lurking somewhere in close proximity, which make for exciting viewing of hunts and kills.

The southern plains are particularly known for their large numbers of big cats, including cheetahs, which take advantage of the wide open spaces, using their amazing speed to hunt down their prey.

Despite the large presence of predators, the wildebeest, zebras and other herbivores hang around here during the long rains, building up reserves for the upcoming Great Migration that lies ahead.

Bird Watching in March

Bird watching remains relatively good during March with most European and Asian migratory species still hanging around and resident species often seen fluttering in and out of their nests in the trees taking care of their young.

Kilimanjaro in March

Hiking Kilimanjaro in March comes at a big risk as the arrival of the rains make the going tough causing temperatures to drop and bring in heavier snowfalls, but some hikers prefer the challenge of summiting the heavily snowed peak. Much of course depends on the arrival of the rains. The later you leave it the more chance of heavier rainfall.

Zanzibar in March

Zanzibar in March may not be the best time to visit as the arrivals of the rains and higher humidity may spoil an otherwise fantastic beachside holiday.

Considering the costs and efforts spent getting here, you might as well pick another time to give you a more rewarding holiday.

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April in Tanzania

Season: Long rainy season

April is in the middle of the wet season so you can expect rain virtually every day.

Daily downpours are heavy and intense, usually in the afternoons but typically it seldom rains for the whole day. This allows safari diehards to spend some time out on safaris.

It is best however, to avoid travelling in Tanzania during April due to the chances of flooding, regardless whether you’re visiting game parks, the islands or Kilimanjaro.

There are, however, some advantages in visiting Tanzania in April, although they may be few and far between. 

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in April?

April is usually the wettest month of the year and temperatures reach around the 30° C mark with high humidity making life rather unpleasant, particularly on the coast and islands.

Rains are usually in the form of heavy afternoon thunderstorms, lasting for several hours.

All in all, not a great time to be visiting Tanzania.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F)	22°C to 24°C (72°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F)	15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F)	20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F)

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in April?

If you’re on a tight budget and prepared to put up with the adverse weather and conditions, April is the cheapest month to visit Tanzania. The parks and beaches are at their quietest, and only a few diehards are trudging up the mountain.

It’s worth remembering that numerous parks close during the entire rainy season in the northern and southern regions.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in April?

Game viewing during the rainy season can be fairly difficult, although the wildlife remains plentiful throughout all the parks. The lush foliage and large volumes of water on the plains makes spotting game even more difficult, but crocs and hippos however are at their happiest. 

For serious photographers, the rains also provide numerous opportunities not normally found during the dry months. Capturing a pride of lions, herds of elephants, wildebeest, zebra and buffaloes grazing on the plains with dark menacing clouds looming in the background is priceless. 

The rains also fill the plains with new vegetation drawing in the wildlife and encouraging more new births and subsequent predator activity.  

Bird Watching in April

For birders, April remains a good time to visit the parks as the migratory birds are still gathering in anticipation of their return journey back to Europe and Asia, while resident species are still in nesting and courting mode displaying their brightest plumages.

Keen eyes and strong binoculars are needed to view some of the smaller species, which are perfectly camouflaged in the dense green canopies.  

Kilimanjaro in April

Apart from the quiet trails and campsites on the mountain, there are not too many other advantages to hiking Kili in April.

Heavy rainfall means slippery trails, loads of mud and extra cold on the higher elevations and summit. Cloudy conditions also prevent the stunning panoramic photographs hikers expect to take on their hikes on Kilimanjaro. 

But then again, for those seeking a more challenging hike, April is a good time to hike Africa’s highest peak. That’s why tour companies still conduct hiking tours on Kili during the wettest period of the year.

Zanzibar in April

The high rainfall, humidity, mosquito activity and risk of malaria, ensure the beaches of Zanzibar remain relatively quiet during April. In fact some hotels and lodges close over the wet period. Low accommodation prices and quieter streets and beaches are perhaps the only motivating factors for visiting Zanzibar in April.

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May in Tanzania

Long rainy season

During the latter part of May the rains begin to taper off, breathing new life into the tourism industry in Tanzania and game parks and beaches begin to fill up once again.

By now, the landscapes in the game parks have greened up beautifully providing much food for the wildlife across the entire country. Sunny spells become more frequent, although cloudbursts still persist but usually in the afternoons. 

May is a great time for visitors to start venturing on safaris, but rain jackets must be carried at all times as downpours can still appear out of nowhere.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in May?

The bad weather is expected to break during May, but normally towards the latter part of the month, although that varies from year to year.

Temperatures cool down somewhat although they remain in the upper 20s° C in the western highlands while there is still some humidity.

Along the coast it can still reach up to 32° C on some days and rainfall starts to become less frequent. 

May could be a ‘hit or miss’ affair, much depending on the timing of the rains.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F)	22°C to 24°C (72°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F)	15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F)	20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F)

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in May?

May is still regarded as off-peak season with park lodges offering lower rates known as ‘green season rates’. That alone makes May a good time for visitors on tight budgets to visit the parks.

As May is out of season, the parks are substantially quieter than in the coming months.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in May?

There is no hit or miss when it comes down to wildlife viewing during May. While lodging is less costly, the numbers and species of the wildlife in the parks remain the same.

While most animals, including herbivores, predators and birds remain fairly evenly spread across the entire countryside, it’s usually around this time that this 1,000 kilometre great wildebeest migration begins. It’s worth noting that no exact time can be predicted as, like everything in nature, it depends on the timing of the rains.

Normally, by mid-May, the rains are slowing, drying out the landscape in the south, the adult wildebeest and zebras are well-fed and in good nick, their youngsters are strong enough to keep up with their mums and it’s time to go. Their destination is the greener pastures in the north across the infamous Mara River and into the plains of Maasai Mara National Park in southern Kenya.

Bird Watching in May

Although the northern hemisphere migrants start to depart during May, there are still over 500 species of resident bird species spread across the entire ecosystem that make Tanzania an all year round bird watcher’s paradise.

The nesting and courting rituals are nearly all over and for many birds it’s back to business as usual.

Among the resident species you may find giant ostriches, secretary birds, caribou storks, fish eagles, black eagles, hornbills, tons of water fowl and of course massive colonies of flamingos wherever there is water.

Kilimanjaro in May

Kilimanjaro in May could also be a hit or miss affair with conditions being entirely controlled by the weather, which has been quite unpredictable of late.

The summit, which is already very cold, even at the warmest times of year, is now snow-capped. 

Unless you’re prepared to risk hiking in wet, muddy and slippery conditions, it may be best to plan your hike on Kili for the more stable and drier months just around the corner.

Zanzibar in May

Although May is still regarded as part of a long wet season, the rains do start to become less frequent, and temperatures start dipping below the 30° C mark, but humidity may remain high. All in all May in Zanzibar is usually far more tolerable than April but is still not a desirable time of year to visit. 

More sunshine means more time to spend on the beaches, swimming, snorkelling or doing any other water-related activities.

The sea temperature remains high averaging around 28° C and water visibility is clear as always.

Accommodation is a little cheaper than the upcoming few months, making it a good time for tight budgets.

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June in Tanzania

Season: Long dry season

The much anticipated month of June signals the end of the long rains and the beginning of the long dry season, during which the parks, beaches and the famous mountain start to get busy once again.

The rains may have slowed right down but rain jackets now make way for warm clothing as early mornings, evenings and nights start becoming chilly in the game parks. 

In my opinion, unless seeing the famous Mara River crossing is important to you, I’d be inclined to recommend visiting Tanzania in June rather than the coming months. This is because the parks and Zanzibar are considerably quieter than in July, August and September.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in June?

Clear blue skies, minimal rain and cooler temperatures make for fantastic weather in the parks, the mountains and the beaches. While the nights can drop as low as 10° C in some parts of the Serengeti, daytime temperatures however, may still reach 30° C – welcome to winter in the tropics!

It’s always best to dress in layers on safaris, starting off with warm jackets, scarfs, hats and gloves, gradually peeling them off in layers as the sun rises and warms up the landscape.

On the coast however, the weather is more stable with temperatures reaching 30° C at times rarely dropping below 20° C. This is really great beach weather as the water is still fairly warm and the seas clear and balmy, perfect for all beach and water activities.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)	10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in June?

Being the start of the peak season in the parks, costs are obviously high, but not as high as they are during July and August.

There will be more safari trucks in the parks, but unlike the smaller parks, which can become crowded, the vastness of the Serengeti for instance, ensures that it doesn’t get congested. Some specialist tours venture out in remote areas enabling their clients to view the wildlife without a soul in sight.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in June?

The great migration is in full swing in June, millions of wildebeest journeying further north.

During June the herds will be anywhere from the Seronera District, along the Western Corridor and the Grumeti River. Crossing this river poses the first major peril for the herds, providing easy pickings for the exceptionally large crocodiles that infest the river as well as the big cats and other predators who have gathered here in anticipation for the feast to come. This area is a popular tourist destination during June.

Bird Watching in June

June may not be regarded as a good time for bird watchers, but there is still much to see across the entire country.

Some late European and Asian species are still enjoying the tropical conditions and have postponed their return flights.

There are also many permanent residents to keep serious bird watchers happy including several rare endemic species. Two such species are the grey-breasted spurfowl, which prefers the open grasslands of the Seronera plains and the brightly-coloured Fischer’s lovebird, usually found in the dense forests around the Grumeti River.

Kilimanjaro in June

June is prime time for Kilimanjaro.

Great settled weather, clear skies and comfortable temperatures make for near perfect hiking conditions. Some cloud cover however, could spoil the otherwise scenic views that can be enjoyed from the slopes and the summit, which can also be bitterly cold during June.

To increase your chances of better weather and conditions, July and August may be better bets,

Zanzibar in June

June is an excellent month to visit Zanzibar.

The rains should have become even less frequent, allowing more time to spend exploring the historic Stone Town and relaxing on its beaches. The islands are busier and therefore lodging costs are inevitably higher.

The sea is usually calm and clear, ideal for all beach and water activities, including snorkelling and scuba diving along its stunning, colourful coral reefs.

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July in Tanzania

Season: Long dry season

July is in the heart of Tanzania’s winter and the country is at its driest. The skies are generally clear and midday temperatures are mild, although they can still peak at around 30° C along the coast and in the south-western parks on some days. 

On the islands, the sea is calm and clear, making July one of the most ideal times to hit the beaches, go on safari or hike Kilimanjaro. 

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in July?

The weather in July is usually absolutely perfect. Almost no chance of rain with clear skies, mild and comfortable temperatures from the islands to the mountains.

In the parks in the western highlands, night temperatures can drop to around 10° C with early morning safari drives requiring warm clothing, gradually peeling them off as the day warms up to around 25° C before it starts to dip again in the evenings.

Along the coast and on the islands, temperatures average a little higher and can reach 30° C at times but seldom drop below 20° C at night. There may still be a few showers but they don’t usually last for long.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)	10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in July?

Unfortunately, this is a busy time of the year in all the parks and accommodation and safari prices are pretty steep. They are a little higher than June but still not quite as high as August. 

Smaller parks may feel crowded at times, but larger parks like the Serengeti and Nyerere, are so vast, it’s harder to feel overcrowded. However, at the best sightings you could still be contending with dozens of vehicles. 

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in July?

Being the middle of the dry season, the grasses are short, the vegetation less dense and animals tend to congregate around the water holes, making them easier to spot. Water holes are excellent spots to view big cat activity and witness kills.

The Great Migration is by now well on its way with millions of wildebeest and zebras crossing the Grumeti River along the Western Corridor and heading to Kogatende in Serengeti’s north. Towards the end of July, the herds start to reach the famous Mara River and if you’re lucky, you may even witness a crossing.

Bird Watching in July

July may not be the best month for bird watchers as the migratory species from Europe and Asia are long gone, but with over 1,000 resident species, dozens of which are endemic to Tanzania, there is never a shortage of birds at any time of the year. 

The vastly diverse landscapes of Tanzania provide perfect habitats for a wide range of resident bird species that can be seen during all seasons.

One particular and really exquisitely decorated bird is the lilac-breasted roller, which can often be seen virtually everywhere perched on treetops or poles alongside the roads. June and July is also the breeding season for numerous resident species which put up fancy courtship displays.

The high number of lakes in Tanzania ensure there are also huge concentrations of flamingos, especially in the central Serengeti, inside the popular Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Ndutu and the highly caustic Lake Natron.

Kilimanjaro in July

July rates among the best months to hike Kilimanjaro.

Clear skies and minimal chance of rain or cloud cover ensure stable and comfortable hiking with great scenery over the entire multi-day hike. The summit is bound to be under snow, making for more dramatic scenery, but it will also be bitterly cold. 

It’s worth remembering that the final trek for the summit begins at midnight when the temperature falls to well below freezing. How does -20° C sound? When the wind blows it feels even colder (eek!). Trails however, will undoubtedly be busy.

Zanzibar in July

Zanzibar in July is pure bliss. Hardly any rain, clear skies and mild temperatures with low humidity, make it an excellent time to lose yourself in the narrow streets of the historic Stone Town or chill on the beaches.

The sea remains relatively warm at around 26° C, crystal clear and balmy, perfect for swimming, snorkelling and any other water activity.

Beaches and hotels are at their busiest and high season prices apply.

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August in Tanzania

Season: Long dry season

August kicks off the second half of the long dry season and is the busiest and most expensive month of the year for visitors. But in return, you get the finest weather throughout the entire country.

Up in the north of the Serengeti, the migratory herds are crossing the deadly Mara River and it’s the most exciting part of the Great Migration for visitors and the waiting crocodiles.

Eid – al – Fitr takes place around 19th August. This is a four day Islamic festival which celebrates the end of the fast. It’s the biggest event of the year and people give each other gifts. Some restaurants in the towns may be closed over the 4 day period.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in August?

August is a continuation of July with even less chance of rain even along the coast. The days are warm with sunny clear skies, but nights and early mornings are chilly in the parks. 

Temperatures usually hover in the mid-20s° C rarely touching 30° C in the southern plains of the Serengeti.

On the coast and islands it’s pretty much the same with excellent and stable weather to be expected every day. A great time for all beach and water related activities.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)	10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in August?

Unfortunately the good weather and conditions come at a cost for visitors, with August being the most expensive month of the year. Despite the high costs, the parks are usually extremely busy. 

While many tourists visit several parks on their holidays to Tanzania, they may find some of the smaller parks a little crowded at times.

The bigger parks like the Serengeti and Nyerere however, don’t have this problem as much. The high prices charged by Tanzanian parks also help to reduce overcrowding during this peak season. That being said, you will undoubtedly encounter a few vehicles at the top sightings, especially the river crossings.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in August?

August and perhaps September offer the best wildlife viewing of the year. There is no better time to view the Big Five over and over quite like this period.

While the migratory herds and most tourists are trudging towards the northern regions of the Serengeti, down in the south it’s more peaceful. Apart from the wildebeest and zebras, most other animals, like lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, elephants, giraffes, buffalos, hippos and dozens of antelope species are quite content to stay where they are, ensuring an abundance of wildlife along the entire landscape.

Up in the north however, it’s mayhem. The two million or so wildebeest and zebras are busy crossing the crocodile-infested Mara River, providing much excitement and making August an excellent time to be visiting the Northern Serengeti camps.

There is also much other wildlife variety to be viewed during this frantic time, including loads of big cats, elephants, buffalos, etc, etc.

Bird Watching in August

Once again, not the best time for bird enthusiasts, although some really late departures among the European and Asian migrants are still taking place, and there are also numerous resident species in all the regions and parks across Tanzania.

Kilimanjaro in August

August is another great month for Kilimanjaro. The weather remains stable, with clear skies, warm temperatures and overall favourable hiking conditions. As it’s the coldest time of the year, the higher slopes and the summit will be extra cold and most certainly be covered in snow, creating stunning and contrasting photo opportunities. Expect the slopes and trails to be busy.

Zanzibar in August

August is the peak month in Zanzibar with hotels and lodges being at their busiest and most expensive. The weather is also at its very finest, perfect for exploring the city, its beaches and secluded coves as well as the countless, nearby uninhabited islands. 

The sea is usually extremely calm and crystal clear, perfect for snorkelling along its miles of coral reefs, teeming with colourful marine life.

Further reading

You can read my Tanzania in August guide for further reading and recommended January Itineraries.

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September in Tanzania

Season: Long dry season

September is usually an extension of August with similar conditions, but depending on the weather patterns, it’s also the time when seasons begin to change, mostly towards the latter half of the month.

It remains, however, a very popular time to visit Tanzania, and is definitely my personal favourite month. The weather is usually brilliant, tourists have started to thin out, making safaris and Zanzibar more pleasurable and prices are less costly, although still high. 

For the sailing fraternity, the Dar es Salaam Yacht Club holds an annual regatta towards the end of September or early October, visiting several spots along the mainland coast and offshore Zanzibar Islands.

If the Mara River crossing is at the top of your bucket list, September is in my opinion the best month to view it. This is because Tanzania is quieter in September than in July and August. Lodges have more occupancy, some better deals and offers are available, flights are more reasonable in price and, most importantly, there are less vehicles in the parks.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in September?

Being the last month of the long dry spell, September is typically dry. But the chance of an early start to the wet season is always a possibility. On one of my visits to Tanzania in September, I encountered rain towards the end of the month.

You can, however, expect warmish weather during September with maximum temperatures averaging in the mid-20s° C across the country, but it can get a little warmer on the coast and islands.

In the parks, early mornings and nights can still be chilly, requiring layers of warm clothing for the early game drives. Apart from an early season shower, skies should be mostly clear.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)	10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in September?

Costs remain relatively high but are a little less than peak month August. Visitors normally start to thin out although parks remain fairly busy in September. 

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in September?

While crowds have started to become less and prices have started to drop, wildlife viewing during September remains sublime. As with August, the migrating herds are massing around the Mara River. However, many animals have already crossed into the lush plains of the Maasai Mara and into Kenya so it is typically just the tail end of the migration still to cross. By mid-September, most if not all of the crossings have typically taken place.

The northern territories and parks of the Serengeti remain the most popular areas to visit to view this spectacle, but the southern and central regions, such as the Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and other parks are also teeming with tons of wildlife that don’t join the mad migration rush.

The millions of herbivores in Serengeti that stay behind on the southern and central plains, such as gazelles and impalas, ensure the all year round presence of lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas and other smaller hunters, thieves and scavengers. Elephants, buffalos, giraffes, warthogs and tons of antelopes also remain plentiful across the entire Tanzanian landscape.

Bird Watching in September

September may not be the best month for bird watching, but there are over 1,000 permanent resident species that are plentiful across Tanzania. 

Kilimanjaro in September

September remains fairly popular for hiking Kilimanjaro, although the crowds do tend to start tapering off.

Early season showers tend to put off casual hikers, while seasoned hikers welcome the extra challenge and don’t seem to mind a little discomfort from possible adverse weather.

The summit will be snow covered and extremely cold.

Zanzibar in September

September is also a popular period for visitors to Zanzibar. The weather is still warm with the mercury hovering around the upper 20s° C, sometimes creeping above 30° C and seldom dropping below 20° C. All in all, almost perfect.

Hotels and beaches are still busy although not as packed as June, July and August and prices may be a little lower. The waters are still fairly calm and warm and visibility remains excellent for snorkelers and scuba divers. 

Tanzacat Open is a sailing competition including the “Zanzibar Raid” which takes place in late September to early October. The event is organised by the Dar es Salaam Yacht Club.

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October in Tanzania

Season: short rainy season

October marks the end of the long dry season and the short rains begin to set in, but it still remains a fairly popular month for tourists.

Depending on the timing of the rains, which have become quite unpredictable of late, some showers can be expected in the afternoons, but still leave plenty of time for game drives in the mornings or relaxing on the coast and Zanzibar beaches.

Parks and hotels are less busy from mid-October onwards and this time of year is officially classed as ‘shoulder season’ with prices being reduced quite substantially, making it more attractive for budget-conscious travellers.

I personally love this time of year for visiting Tanzania as the wildlife viewing is still superb and the weather is generally good but you don’t have to contend with as many visitors, making for a more peaceful and intimate experience.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in October?

While the weather remains unpredictable, you can generally expect a certain amount of rain in the parks in the interior and along the coast and the islands.

Fortunately showers are more likely to come in the afternoons and don’t last for too long. 

Although temperatures are due to start rising, days remain relatively mild and comfortable at around 25 ° C, with nights sometimes reaching 15° C.

Along the coast and islands temperatures remain similar, but can reach 30° C on some days, dropping to around 20° C. Some rains can also be expected.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)	10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in October?

Mid-October to the end of November is regarded as ‘shoulder season’ with lower prices compared to high season, and parks and hotels are a lot less busy.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in October?

While the uncertain weather may dampen the numbers of tourists, the fewer numbers of safari trucks in the parks make for better wildlife viewing and a more satisfying all-round safari experience. Being the only vehicle watching a pride of lions bask in the sun is an extremely special experience!

The abundance of game ensures good wildlife viewing during October with the migration herds congregating in the northern regions of the Serengeti. While some may have not yet crossed the Mara River, others may have already crossed it again on their southern-bound return journey. For some inexplicable reason, herds are often seen crossing this river back and forth several times, before setting off again.

The central and southern parks remain unaffected during this period with their normal abundance of wildlife, including the apex and other predators, elephants, giraffes and most other animals with the exception of wildebeest and zebras. These parks are more suited for visitors who want to avoid the madding crowds that the Great Migration seem to draw.

Bird Watching in October

Bird watching starts to improve substantially during October with the early arrivals of many northern hemisphere species fleeing the upcoming harsh winters of Europe and Northern Asia. 

October also heralds the start of the flamingo breeding season when they start building their nests out of mud on the shallow islands in the various lakes. Lake Natron is a favourite spot, where they use the toxic waters of the lake as a natural security fence to protect their eggs and young from opportunistic thieves.

After the long dry season, the sparsely vegetated landscape makes birds easier to spot, before the upcoming short rains bring new dense foliage making bird watching more difficult. 

Kilimanjaro in October

The popularity of hiking Kilimanjaro starts to wane in October which is a pity as the first half of the month can be really good. I suppose, and quite understandingly, the unpredictability of the weather puts lots of hikers off, although temperatures are usually quite warm, except at the summit, which is cold throughout the year. 

But for avid hikers, as long as you’re properly dressed and equipped, Kili can still be hiked fairly comfortably during October. It may be wet and a little more challenging on some days, but nowhere near as wet as in March, April and May.

Zanzibar in October

Crowds in Zanzibar also start to thin out during October, particularly during the latter half as the rains begin to fall more frequently, resulting in reduced accommodation prices. There are, however, plenty of sunny days to enjoy a morning chilling on the beaches or shopping and exploring the towns.

The seas remain warm, calm and clear with lots of snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities available across the islands.

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November in Tanzania

Short rainy season

November is normally a wet month and therefore not a popular time for touring. Nevertheless, cheaper accommodation prices ensure visitors still keep coming. Parks and hotels are less busy and if you don’t mind being caught in an afternoon downpour or two, you can enjoy wildlife viewing at your leisure without the constant buzz of safari trucks around you.

November is actually one of my favourite times of year to visit Tanzania as the looming short rains put off many visitors and mean accommodation prices are more favourable. However, if you consider that rainfall is most likely in the afternoons and evenings, and not every day experiences rain, a safari in November is still worthwhile. On my visit to Tanzania in November, I experienced dry days every single day, it simply rained at night. However, the heavy rainfall did mean some places such as Lake Natron were out of bounds due to road flooding.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in November?

The one thing that you can expect for sure in November, is rain. Fortunately it rains mostly during the afternoons and showers are light and don’t last too long, allowing you ample time to go on morning game drives, explore the old Stone Town on Zanzibar or chill on a beach. 

Despite the rain, temperatures remain pretty comfortable, averaging around the upper 20s° C and seldom dropping below 18° C at night.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)	10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in November?

Costs remain lower during the shoulder season which lasts until mid-December and parks are much quieter during November.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in November?

Wildlife viewing remains good during November, although the rains and dense foliage may make animals slightly more difficult to spot. However, predators can sometimes be easier to spot at this time of year as their golden pelts stand out more against a green backdrop. The low number of vehicles may allow you to get closer to the wildlife than usual, and you’ll certainly have a number of special sightings to yourself.

By mid-November, the migration herds would have crossed the Mara River back into Tanzania and are well on their way back to the southern plains. This period provides excellent opportunities to witness the big cats in action around central Serengeti as they congregate around the wildebeest and zebra herds. Additionally, many herbivores such as gazelles and zebras start to give birth at this time of year, meaning not only do you get to see an abundance of new life, but seeing a successful hunt is also on the cards.

Bird Watching in November

November is also a good time for bird watching as the European, North African and Asian migrants are arriving en masse while it’s courting season for the locals who are beginning to display their bright breeding plumage. 

In the lakes, the flamingo breeding season is in full swing with masses of these elegant birds adding a vibrant splash of pink to the lush green landscape.

Kilimanjaro in November

Hiking up Kilimanjaro in November can be challenging as the trails and slopes are usually wet, muddy and slippery. Trails however are pretty quiet.

The constant cloud cover does not make for good scenic photography, but you can still capture magical pics of the misty snow-capped peak.

Temperatures however are warm and comfortable along the lower slopes.

Zanzibar in November

The main advantages of visiting Zanzibar in November are the lower prices and great snorkelling and scuba diving conditions. The constant threat of rain puts most people off, although there is still plenty of sunshine to enjoy a morning on the beach or in the town.

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December in Tanzania

Season: Short rainy season

December in Tanzania can be quite unpredictable as it heralds the end of the wet season and the beginning of the short dry season. Hours of sunshine start to increase with each day, but there will be rain so bring your rain jackets.

Tourism during December remains relatively quiet in Tanzania, with the exception of Christmas and New Year, although it is great for game viewing and bird watching and temperatures remain comfortably warm. Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar start to dry out and begin to get busy again, especially the latter half of the month.

What Weather & Temperatures can I Expect in December?

Being the change of the seasons, the weather is unpredictable during December, but the sun does begin to make more regular and longer appearances with each day.

Temperatures can get quite warm reaching 30° C or higher during the days in the game parks, dropping to the lower 20s° C at night and it can also get quite humid.

Along the coast and on the islands it can get much warmer with the mercury reaching 35°C and it’s more humid.

But as in November, both Zanzibar and the game parks, the rains normally fall in the afternoons making morning game drives and visits to the beach pleasant.

Tanzania location	Daytime temperatures	Nighttime temperatures
Coastal Areas (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar):	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F)
Northern Safari Circuit (e.g., Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro):	20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)	10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
Southern and Western Tanzania (e.g., Selous, Ruaha, Katavi)	25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)	15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

What are the Costs like and How Busy are the Parks in December?

From the middle of December, prices rise slightly and parks do start to get busier, but nowhere as busy as during the peak long dry season.

If you want to beat the crowds and higher prices, I’d avoid visiting Tanzania around Christmas and New Year as this is an extremely popular time of year.

Wildlife Viewing and The Great Migration in December?

Wildlife viewing is great in December. The migratory herds are back in the southern plains again and herbivores are starting to give birth, bringing out the big cats. Much of course depends on the timing of the rains.

The great wildebeest migration should have now settled in the Ndutu plains in the south of Serengeti. They will remain there for the next 4-5 months, grazing on the lush grasses and foliage, and raising their young, until the long rains cease and the landscape begins to dry out. Then it’s time to move as the circle of life continues.

Bird Watching in December

December is the start of the ‘official’ bird watching season.  The recent rains have nourished the landscape, providing food and cover for the birds just in time for their breeding and nesting season. The migratory species have also by now arrived in large numbers, adding more variety to the over 1,000 species of birds that already live in Tanzania, making December a bird watcher’s paradise. 

Kilimanjaro in December

December through to January is the second busiest time for hiking Kilimanjaro. Although there is a good chance of rain and cloud cover on the lower altitudes, the higher slopes are normally clear and dry, except for the ever-present snow on the peak, despite being only a few degrees south of the equator. Sunrises from the Uhuru Peak are absolutely breathtaking at this time of year.

Zanzibar in December 

December marks the end of the wet season and the start of the short dry season. The first half of the month tends to have more rain, gradually decreasing during the latter half. Showers however are light and short and mostly in the late afternoons.

The hotel and beaches start to fill after the quieter wet season and there is generally a festive atmosphere on the streets and beaches of Zanzibar. Stone Town is abuzz with several cultural feasts and celebrations taking place almost daily, adding to the already relaxed tropical island feel. All in all, a wonderful time to visit Zanzibar.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari

Although Tanzania is an all year round tourist destination, the best time to go on safari would be during the long dry season, between June and mid-October. This period also coincides with the most exciting parts of the Great Migration, which is mostly made up of approximately two million wildebeest and several hundred thousand zebras and can be viewed at the various regions as they trudge through the Serengeti during this period. They have to cross two dangerous rivers, the Grumeti River between May and July and the Mara River between July and September.

The second best time of year to enjoy a safari in Tanzania is between January and mid-March. January to March is regarded as the calving season. During that time over 8,000 baby animals, mainly wildebeest, zebras and various antelope species are born each day in the southern Ndutu Plains of the Serengeti Ecosystem.

The worst time of year to go on safari in Tanzania is between mid-March and mid-May as this is the long rainy season. Although wildlife viewing is still good at this time of year, the strong rains can really put a dampener on your experience.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania for the Wildebeest Great Migration

The best time to visit Tanzania for the wildebeest migration is late July to September when millions of Wildebeests cross the crocodile-infested mara river in the north of the Serengeti.

Other great migration events include:

Wildebeest migration and calving in the Southern Serengeti from January to mid-March.

Wildebeests crossing the Grumeti river as part of the great migration on Tanzania Western Corridor from May to July.

Wildebeests crossing back over the Mara river to the Kenya side around mid-Oct to mid-November.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Baby Animals

The best time to visit Tanzania to see baby animals would be January and February in the southern plains of the Serengeti around the Ndutu area. The returning wildebeest herds and other herbivores have an abundance of lush grasslands to graze on and water to quench their thirst, with the landscape having been well nourished by the preceding rains. 

This creates ideal conditions for the calving season to commence. During these two months or so, over 8,000 baby animals are born each day, attracting many visitors to the area to witness this miracle of nature. The sudden abundance of easy prey also attracts many predators to the area who also need to eat and feed their own young.

I don’t know about you, but seeing a baby wildebeest plopping on the ground and immediately trying to stand up on its wobbly legs, just has to bring a smile to your face. 

For the new-borns, their first challenge in life is to stand up and be running with the herds within minutes if they are to survive the next few days. Many do not. It’s hard to believe that within a few months, they will be joining the herds on their first migration across the entire Serengeti, a distance of 1,000 kilometres enduring many perils along the way.

Other herbivores start to give birth with the arrival of the short rains in November. Gazelles, impalas, giraffes and zebras are some of the many animals that start to have their young. Therefore the second best time to see baby animals in Tanzania is November and December.

Predators such as lions and leopards have their young throughout the year. Their breeding cycle is triggered by their previous young either becoming independent or being lost. This can happen at any time of year.

You’re most likely to see an abundance of lion cubs a few months after a pride takeover as the new males try to secure their bloodline by eliminating previous cubs and fathering their own as soon as possible.

Best Time to Visit the Top Safari Parks in Tanzania

Below I’ve provided guidance on the best times to visit the most popular parks.

Best Time to Visit Serengeti National Park

The very best time to visit Serengeti National Park is during the Wildebeest Mara River crossing – the highlight of The Great Migration.

Two million Wildebeests cross the crocodile-infested Mara River in Northern Serengeti around late July, August and September and then back again late October to early November. Times can vary slightly each year so August or early September would be the safest bet.

June to October (dry season) – as there is little to no rain in this period, the bush begins thinning out and the landscapes turn from green to orange. With water suddenly scares, animals start to congregate around water holes. Both these factors make wildlife viewing much easier in this period.

The sun shines and the weather is great during this period with temperatures around 25°C / 77°F.

There are fewer mosquitos at this time of year which reduces the risk of malaria.

The highlights of the one of the earth’s greatest wildlife spectacles, The Great Migration takes place during this period. The Grumeti river crossing takes place in Tanzania’s western corridor around May to July.

Around mid-July to September the famous Mara River crossing takes place in northern Serengeti as the wildebeests cross from Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya. mid-October to mid-November the wildebeests cross back over the Mara River into Tanzania again for calving.

The parks can get crowded at this time of year although due to the size of parks such as Serengeti and Tanzania’s higher costs they are never as busy as other safari destinations such as Kenya. Temperatures can drop to 14°C / 57°F at night.

If you want to see baby animals and the related big cat activity then January and February are your best best as the wildebeests are calving in Southern Serengeti which attracts the big cats. November time is also excellent for big cats as other herbivores give birth around this time. Parks are also quiet in terms of tourists at this time of year making spotting easier although you do have to contend with denser vegetation.

Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is great for safari all year round as most animals don’t migrate. The crater is probably one of the best opportunities you will have to spot the endangered black rhino in the world.

The best time to see lots of baby animals in a lush and green environment such as zebras and wildebeests is the beginning of the year.

If you want to see as many animals as possible, visibility is best in the long dry season between June and October.

Birdwatching is excellent all year round. However November to April sees the arrival of the migratory birds from Europe and North Africa. This time of year is also breeding season for the resident birds which allows you to see them with their beautiful plumage.

The most spectacular landscape and flours are during the wet season. Lake Magadi’s higher water levels at this time draw in more flamingos.

There is usually afternoon showers in the short rainy season in November and December. However it’s quite easy to plan your safaris around the rain.

The heavy downpours in the long rainy season make safaris a little more challenging.

Learn more by reading my guide to a Ngorongoro Crater Safari.

Best Time to Visit Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is is part of Tanzania’s Northern safari circuit and is famous for its huge elephant population, rare tree climbing lions, massive red termite mounds, diverse birdlife and ancient baobab trees.

The best time to visit Tarangire National park is during the long dry season from late June to October. Migratory herds arrive in search of water due to the depleting water supplies which encourage animals to congregate around Tarangire River and the swamps of the river valley. Mosquitos and flies are at their lowest levels of the year so the risk of malaria is at its lowest too.

Local guides still recommend visiting at any time of year as the park always has something to offer.

Tarangire’s migratory herds such as the Elephants, oryx and gerenuk, leave the park animals move up into the Masaai steppe during the short wet season in November and return at the start of the long dry season in June.

There is some unpredictability in terms of the exact arrival and departure dates of the migratory herds. If the long wet season finishes early then the migratory heads come to the park earlier and leave earlier. Conversely if the long rains finish late then the migratory herds arrive at the park late and leave later.

The shorts rains usually start around mid-October and breath life into the park. Many animals start giving birth to babies, vegetation turns a vibrant green and flours bloom. You will be able to see the resident animals such as antelopes and buffaloes.

Bird watching is at its best in the wet season when the migratory birds are present.

The most challenging time to visit is during the long rains in March, April and May as there are regular heavy downpours normally in the afternoon.

Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara National Park

Due to lake Manyara expanding and flooding surrounding areas in recent years, the park is not as great as it once was. However, it’s still worth a visit as you can go on a traditional boat on the lake, and see game such as lions and elephants in the park.

The best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park is the same as the Serengeti with June to October being the best time.

Best Time to Visit Arusha National Park

As with all parks in Tanzania, the best time to visit Arusha National Park is definitely during the long dry season between June and September. Although it is a relevantly small park covering just over 500 square kilometres, the park’s varied landscape consists of open grasslands, rolling hills, volcanic mountains, dense forests as well as lakes and marshlands, which cannot be truly appreciated in gloomy rainy conditions.  

Being a mere a short drive from the city of Arusha, it’s possible to travel back and forth each day to enjoy all its attractions. The abundant wildlife consists of elephants, buffalos, zebras, warthogs, and many of the favourite antelope species. It also has one of the biggest populations of giraffes in the world. Great weather always makes for better game viewing.

In the dense forests, the rarely seen colobus monkeys and a wide selection of birds are regularly seen, while the lakes in the north-eastern region of the park are teeming with hippos and waterbuck and huge colonies of flamingos and pelicans all year round.

The absence of big cats makes Arusha a favourite park for walking and canoeing safaris, which are not pleasant or even possible during the rainy seasons. Furthermore, the park encompasses the famous Mount Meru, which is Tanzania’s second tallest mountain and offers fantastic hiking opportunities. Hikes may vary from a morning’s amble on its slopes, to multi-day hikes to the summit from where magnificent scenery of the countryside and of Mount Kilimanjaro can be enjoyed.

The road infrastructure in the park is fairly well-kept, making self-drive safaris very doable, but then again, it’s always better in dry weather.

Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park

Being situated in the remote southern region of Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is one of the lesser known parks, despite being one of the biggest. That area receives heavy rainfalls during the wet seasons and many of its lodges close down during those periods. It stands to reason that visiting Ruaha is best during the dry months.

Apart from paying peak season prices, the positives far outweigh the negatives when visiting Ruaha during the dry seasons. Despite being peak season, this park never gets crowded, with few safari trucks on the trails, making game viewing a far more pleasant experience. This park is so big and so remote you often feel as if you have it all to yourself.

Ruaha is well-known for its high number of lions, leopards and cheetahs as well as huge herds of elephants, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest hippos, crocs, hyenas, wild dogs and many of Africa’s favourite buck species. It also boasts of having over 500 species of birds.

There are plenty of lodges and tented camps within and just outside the park that offer game drives, guided walking and canoeing safaris, as well as specialised birding or photographic safaris.

It takes some getting to Ruaha by road, with most visitors choosing to fly in and out using the airstrip a mere two hour drive from the park. This is yet another reason for visiting Ruaha in clear and dry conditions which are only possible during the long dry season, between June and September.

Best Time to Visit Nyerere National Park

Formally known as Selous National Park, Nyerere National Park lies in another remote area of Tanzania south-east of Ruaha and is one of the largest national parks in Africa and certainly the largest in Tanzania.

Its remoteness and lack of decent roads leave no option for its visitors to get there other than by air. This fact alone makes it nonsensical to visit Nyerere at any other time than in clear weather during the dry seasons. There are several airstrips scattered throughout the park to serve the various lodges with regular flights from Dar es Salaam and various lodges.

Despite its remote location and higher costs in getting there, it remains a popular safari and especially photographic safari destination.

Its wildlife include the Big Five in large numbers, as well as rhinos, hippos, crocs, giraffes, zebras, sable antelope plus most of the usual suspects you expect to find in Africa. This park is also known for its populations of endangered wild dogs.

Its landscape is varied, rugged and wild, similar to Ruaha, just bigger and with more water present. There are numerous lakes and water holes scattered across the entire terrain, with several large rivers flowing freely almost across its entire 400 kilometre length. 

Nyerere National Park offers an alternative to the more famous parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro with a diverse and abundant wildlife, stunningly beautiful landscape and with far less tourist activity.

Many lodges are situated alongside the river banks offering spectacular riverfront views and provide a wide range of tours, including game drives, walking safaris and the ever-popular boating safaris. Being closer to nature and surrounded only by wilderness doesn’t get any better than this place.

Being close to the coast, during the wet seasons, Nyerere is far more humid than the other parks in the western highlands, which not only makes life uncomfortable but also increases the numbers of mosquitos and raises the risk of malaria.

I’d recommend visiting either in the long dry season between June and October or the short dry season between mid-December and the end of February.

Best Times to Visit Both Tanzania and Zanzibar for Safari and Beach

Fortunately the best times to go on safari in Tanzania correspond perfectly with the best times to visit Zanzibar. These are the long dry season from June to October and the short dry season from January to February.

Best Time for Hiking Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro is made of various bands with the top being the Uhuru Peak which is always extremely cold. Visiting during the warmer periods makes the peak slightly less cold vs other times of year.

The best time for hiking Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is actually very similar to the best time to visit Tanzania for safari and also Zanzibar. The best times is January to March which is the short dry period and the first 1/2 month of the long rains and mid-June to mid-October which is the long dry period and the first half month of the short rains.

Of these two fantastic periods for climbing Kilimanjaro, January to mid-March is the very best as the weather is slightly warmer compared to the later period.

Best Time To Visit Tanzania for Bird Watching

The best time of year to visit Tanzania for bird watching is November onwards when the migratory birds from Europe and other parts of Africa start to arrive all the way through to April.

During January through to April Resident birds breed and have best plumage

It’s worth noting that birdwatching is fantastic throughout the whole year in Tanzania.

Tanzania High Season Vs Low Season

With Tanzania being just a few degrees south of the equator, the seasons are not separated by periods of hot and cold, but rather by the arrival and cessation of the rains. The country has four typical seasons made up of one short and one long wet season, both of which are regarded as low seasons, and one short and one long dry season, which are both high seasons.

The dry seasons (January and February and June to mid-October) are the best and most popular times for tourism in the safari parks, along the coast and the Zanzibar Islands and for hiking Kilimanjaro. Visiting Tanzania during these times has the advantage of great weather, but visitors must contend with higher prices and crowded parks.

During the wet seasons (March to May and mid-October to mid-December), visitors pay lower accommodation rates, parks are less busy, but have to contend with the wet conditions.

Each season however, has numerous pros and cons attached to it and something different to offer. Which is best depends on what you want to see or experience.

If you favour lower prices or quieter parks then mid-October to mid-March is the best time for you. The weather can be a little hit and miss but not too bad, with rainfall typically in the evenings. January to mid-March is particularly good as rainfall is less than the preceding months but the volumes of tourists and prices are still lower than the high season.

If the dry, warm weather or seeing the Mara River crossing are the most important factors in your trip then the high season between June and October is the best time for you to visit. The weather is far more predictable at this time of year and it’s also the only time of year where you can see the wildebeest crossing the crocodile-infested Mara river.

I personally like both times of year (the high season and low season) as they each offer something different. If I was simply visiting Tanzania for a safari and Zanzibar, and the migration wasn’t super important to me then I’d visit outside of peak season in October, November, January or February.

When is the Rainy Season in Tanzania?

The first rainy season is from March to May and is known as the ‘long rains’. The rains during this period can be quite intense, making it extremely difficult to view game, hike Kilimanjaro or visit Zanzibar. Flooding is also common in certain areas and many lodges close during this period.

The second rainy season is towards the end of the year from mid-October to Mid-December. This period is known as the ‘short rains’. During this period, the rains are not as heavy as the long rains and showers normally occur in the afternoons and don’t last for too long. This allows almost all the normal activities like game drives, hiking, and enjoying the beaches to take place.

Having said all that, it must always be kept in mind that the weather in many countries can be and has been quite unpredictable and severe at times, especially now that climate change is impacting the weather system. The seasons mentioned are based on normal times and the timings of the rains vary with each season, as does the severity of them.

Risks of Visiting in the Rainy Season

Risks of visiting in the rainy season may depend on where you want to go and what you want to see or do.

Visiting during the short rains does not typically present too many risks, as the rains are short and light. You can still experience fantastic game drives and see a host of wildlife on your safari. However, be prepared for unexpected showers and consequences of heavy rainfall.

When I visited Tanzania in November, some roads had become impassable after a few nights of heavy rains and on route to Lake Natron, we were forced to a stop as a gushing torrent of water cut the road in half. This was the only road into Lake Natron from the south (there’s another road from the Serengeti but that was around 10 hours away) and so we had to abandon our plans to visit Lake Natron.

Given, I visited during November of 2023 when Tanzania experienced an unusually heavy short rainy season. It cannot be expected that every November will be like this as this was classed as a freak weather event. However, the effects of climate change do make unusual weather more likely.

The intense rains experienced during the long rainy period from March to mid-May may hinder many activities. Parks may experience flooding (look at what happened to the Masai Mara, next door to the Serengeti, in late-April 2024), which may result in certain areas being closed off completely. Your safari truck may also get stuck in some remote area, which can lead to even more serious consequences if you’re on a self-drive safari.

During the rainy season you also run the risk of not enjoying the breathtaking views from the slopes and summit of Kilimanjaro, and besides, you’ll be spending most of the time trudging on muddy trails, somewhat spoiling the whole experience. 

Another reason for choosing the dry season over the rainy season is the high numbers of mosquitos, which are not only annoying but also raise the risk of malaria.

Tanzania in general is not a cheap destination, whether you’re going on safaris, hiking Kilimanjaro or visiting the Zanzibar Islands. The experiences in those places can be truly memorable but much depends on the weather. Unless you’re set on coming during the long rains for a specific purpose, you will always be running the risk of actually not enjoying what Tanzania really has to offer.

In my opinion, considering how much you will spend getting here, it may pay you to rather spend just that little extra and visit Tanzania during a different time of year to the long rainy season and get full value for your money and efforts.

Cheapest Time of Year to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania is not the cheapest safari destination so if you budget is really tight you might prefer to look at slightly cheaper safari destinations such as Kenya. If however, you have your heart set on Tanzania and I completely understand why that might be the case, the cheapest time to visit would be during the long rains from March to April.

Typically most of the rain fall in the afternoon so you can usually schedule morning game drives to avoid the rain. Whilst many of the accommodations in the south close over this period, the more popular northen accommodations typically stay open and offer lower rates.

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