The best time to visit Tanzania depends on several factors such as weather, wildlife, and cultural events. Here are some general guidelines:
- Dry Season (June – October): The dry season is the peak tourist season in Tanzania. It’s the best time for wildlife viewing in national parks as the animals are more visible around waterholes and rivers. The weather is also cooler and drier, making it an ideal time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and tours.
- Shoulder Seasons (January – March, November – December): These months fall between the two main seasons and are a great time to visit Tanzania. The weather is generally good, with less rainfall and cooler temperatures. It’s also less crowded, and prices may be lower.
- Wet Season (April – May): The wet season in Tanzania brings rain and flooding, making some areas inaccessible. However, it’s the best time to see the calving season of the wildebeest and zebra in the Serengeti. Also, the vegetation is lush and green, which can be a great backdrop for photography.
- Great Wildebeest Migration (June – September): If your goal is to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, then the best time to visit Tanzania is from June to September. During this period, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move from Serengeti National Park to the Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of food and water.
Overall, the best time to visit Tanzania depends on your interests and priorities. When planning for your best Tanzania safari package, you should consider the weather, wildlife, cultural events, and other factors to plan your trip accordingly.
Tanzania Seasons
Tanzania in January
If you’re planning a trip to Tanzania in January, you’re in for a treat. This month falls during the “short dry season,” which means you can expect sunny skies and warm temperatures, making it an ideal time for a safari or beach holiday.
Tanzania in February
February is a great time to visit Tanzania, with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. This is the peak of the short dry season, making it an ideal time for wildlife safaris, beach holidays, and other outdoor activities.
Tanzania Weather in April
In Tanzania, April marks the transition from the short dry season to the long rainy season. The weather during this time can vary depending on the location, but in general, it is characterized by high temperatures and occasional rainfall.
In the northern circuit, which includes popular destinations such as the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, April is one of the wettest months of the year.
Heavy rainfall can make some of the roads in the national parks impassable, and it can be difficult to spot wildlife during this time. However, the landscape is lush and green, and it’s a great time for bird watching.
In the southern circuit, which includes the Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park, April is also the start of the rainy season.
However, the rains tend to be less intense compared to the north, and it’s still possible to go on safari during this time. The temperature can be quite hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated and wear appropriate clothing.
Along the coast, including popular beach destinations such as Zanzibar, April can be quite rainy and humid. The sea can also be choppy, which may affect water activities such as snorkeling and diving.
Overall, April is not the most popular time to visit Tanzania due to the rainy weather, but it can still be a good time to visit for those who don’t mind the occasional shower and want to experience the lush, green landscape.
Tanzania Weather in June
In Tanzania, June marks the beginning of the dry season and is generally considered one of the best times to visit the country. The weather during this time is usually mild and dry, making it a great time for wildlife safaris and outdoor activities.
In the northern circuit, which includes popular destinations such as the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, June is one of the driest months of the year.
The landscape is still green and lush from the rainy season, but the vegetation is starting to dry out, making it easier to spot wildlife. Temperatures are generally pleasant during the day and cooler at night.
In the southern circuit, which includes the Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park, June is also a good time for safaris, as the weather is dry and mild. Temperatures can be quite cool in the morning and evening, so it’s important to bring warm clothing for early morning game drives.
Along the coast, including popular beach destinations such as Zanzibar, June is also a great time to visit, with warm temperatures and low humidity. The sea is usually calm, making it perfect for water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Overall, June is an excellent time to visit Tanzania, with mild weather and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Tanzania Weather in July
In Tanzania, July is considered one of the best times to visit the country, especially for wildlife safaris. The weather during this time is typically dry, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
In the northern circuit, which includes popular destinations such as the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, July is one of the driest months of the year.
The vegetation is relatively dry, making it easier to spot wildlife, and the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras is usually in full swing, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to witness this natural wonder. Temperatures during the day are generally pleasant and cool at night.
In the southern circuit, which includes the Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park, July is also a great time for safaris, as the weather is dry and mild. Temperatures can still be quite cool in the morning and evening, so it’s important to bring warm clothing for early morning game drives.
Along the coast, including popular beach destinations such as Zanzibar, July is also a good time to visit, with warm temperatures and low humidity. The sea is usually calm, making it perfect for water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Overall, July is an excellent time to visit Tanzania, with dry weather and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife sightings. It’s important to pack well, book accommodations and tours well in advance, as this is a popular time for tourism in the country.
Tanzania Weather in November
In Tanzania, November marks the end of the long dry season and the start of the short rainy season. The weather during this time can be unpredictable, with a mix of hot, dry days and occasional rainfall.
In the northern circuit, which includes popular destinations such as the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, November is the start of the short rainy season. However, the rains are usually not too heavy and often come in the form of short afternoon showers.
This can make for stunning photo opportunities as the landscape is still green from the previous months of rain, and the animals are easier to spot against the lush backdrop. Temperatures can still be quite high during the day but cooler in the evening.
In the southern circuit, which includes the Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park, November is also the start of the short rainy season.
The rains are usually lighter compared to the north, and the weather is still warm and pleasant for safaris. It’s important to note that some lodges and camps may close during this time due to the start of the rainy season.
Along the coast, including popular beach destinations such as Zanzibar, November can be a mixed bag of weather. It can be hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms and rainfall. However, the sea is usually calm, making it a good time for water activities such as snorkeling and diving.
Summary
Choosing the right time to visit Tanzania is crucial for a memorable travel experience. The country’s weather and climate patterns vary greatly throughout the year, affecting everything from wildlife sightings to outdoor activities and even accommodation availability.
Travelers who visit Tanzania during the dry season, which generally falls between June and October, are more likely to witness the Great Migration, have clear views of wildlife, and enjoy mild weather for outdoor activities.
However, this period can also be more crowded and expensive due to high demand.
On the other hand, the wet season, which typically runs from November to May, offers lush landscapes, lower prices, and fewer crowds, but some safari parks may be closed, and activities may be limited due to the heavy rains.
In summary, choosing the right time to visit Tanzania can significantly impact the quality and enjoyment of your travel experience, and it’s important to research and consider your priorities and preferences before booking your trip.