Best Time to Visit Tanzania – A Month-by-Month Travel Guide
Tanzania is one of Africa’s most iconic destinations, home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the idyllic Zanzibar Archipelago. While Tanzania is a year-round destination, the best time to visit depends on your interests—from witnessing the Great Migration and predator hunts to relaxing on white-sand beaches.
This guide explores Tanzania’s weather patterns, the best seasons for different activities, and includes a month-by-month travel calendar to help you plan your perfect trip.
Tanzania’s Climate at a Glance
- Dry Seasons:
- January – March (short dry period before the long rains)
- June – October (long dry season, peak safari months)
- Rainy Seasons:
- Long Rains: April – May (heaviest rains, some lodges close)
- Short Rains: November (brief showers, usually not disruptive)
- Average Temperatures:
- Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire): 12°C – 28°C, cooler at higher altitudes.
- Coastal Tanzania & Zanzibar: 22°C – 32°C, hot and humid year-round.
- Mount Kilimanjaro: Can drop below freezing at higher elevations.
Best Times for Different Experiences
- Wildlife Safaris: June – October (best game viewing, Great Migration river crossings).
- Great Migration Calving Season: January – February (southern Serengeti, predator action).
- Mount Kilimanjaro Climbs: January – March and June – October (clear skies, drier trails).
- Zanzibar Beach Holidays: December – March, June – October (sunny, warm, calm seas).
- Budget Travel: April – May (green season, low rates, fewer tourists).
Tanzania Travel Calendar (Month-by-Month Guide)
| Month | Weather | Travel Highlights | Best For |
| January | Warm & dry | Great Migration calving in Ndutu, predator activity high, sunny Zanzibar beaches | Wildlife safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs, beach holidays |
| February | Hot & dry | Peak calving season in southern Serengeti, big cat action, clear skies on Kilimanjaro | Migration safaris, trekking, coast travel |
| March | Warm, rains begin late | Wildlife still visible early, fewer crowds, good Zanzibar weather early month | Budget safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs |
| April | Long rains, wettest month | Lush landscapes, dramatic skies, parks quiet, some lodges close | Birdwatchers, budget travelers, photographers |
| May | Heavy rains continue | Stunning green scenery, wildlife dispersed, Zanzibar less ideal | Budget safaris, photography |
| June | Rains end, cooler weather | Migration herds move north, excellent game viewing, Zanzibar sunny | Safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs |
| July | Dry & cool | Wildebeest Migration river crossings start in northern Serengeti, great game drives | Classic safaris, Migration tours |
| August | Dry & cool mornings | Peak Mara River crossings, Ngorongoro & Tarangire excellent, Zanzibar perfect | Migration safaris, family trips |
| September | Dry & sunny | Predator activity high, continued Migration, Zanzibar still ideal | Big game safaris, honeymooners |
| October | Warm, dry | Last phase of Migration in Serengeti, beaches pleasant before short rains | Safaris & coast travel |
| November | Short rains (afternoon showers) | Green scenery returns, migratory birds arrive, fewer tourists | Birdwatching, photography, budget travel |
| December | Warm & sunny, short rains taper | Festive coast holidays, good safaris in Serengeti & Ngorongoro | Family safaris, Zanzibar beaches |
Detailed Seasonal Breakdown
Dry Season (June – October)
This is the best time for classic safaris. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather near water sources, and vegetation is less dense. The northern Serengeti river crossings (July–September) are the highlight, with wildebeest and zebras battling crocodile-filled waters. Kilimanjaro treks are popular due to clear skies and cooler weather. Zanzibar is hot, sunny, and perfect for beach escapes.
Green Season & Calving Time (January – March)
The short dry spell is one of the most dramatic times to visit. In the southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains, wildebeest give birth to hundreds of thousands of calves. Predators like lions and cheetahs are highly active, making this a thrilling safari experience. Conditions are also favorable for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and enjoying Zanzibar’s beaches.
Long Rains (April – May)
The heaviest rains fall during this period, with some lodges and remote camps closing. However, parks are lush and beautiful, ideal for photographers. Fewer tourists mean better deals for those who don’t mind the wet weather.
Short Rains (November)
Short afternoon showers freshen up the landscape, but travel is rarely disrupted. Migratory birds return, making this an excellent season for birdwatching. Prices are lower, and many lodges remain open.
Festive Season (December)
December brings warm weather and lively holiday celebrations. The Serengeti offers great game viewing, and Zanzibar’s beaches are at their best, attracting honeymooners and families alike.
Summary
- Best for Safaris & Great Migration: June – October
- Best for Calving Season: January – February
- Best for Kilimanjaro Climbs: January – March, June – October
- Best for Zanzibar Beaches: December – March, June – October
- Best for Budget Travel: April – May
With its diverse landscapes and wildlife spectacles, Tanzania offers something unique in every season. Whether you’re chasing the Great Wildebeest Migration, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or relaxing in Zanzibar, timing your visit with this travel calendar will ensure an unforgettable African adventure.