When is the best time to visit Tanzania?

Best time to visit Tanzania

Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa, known for its friendly people, abundant wildlife, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar Island.

Knowing when to visit Tanzania for a safari is essential while planning your trip.

One of the most common questions is when is the best time to visit Tanzania ?

Getting the answer to this question depends on the kind of holiday experience you are looking for.

That will help you decide the best time to visit.

The dry season is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. If you’re planning to see migratory birds, the rainy season is the best time.

During this time, you will witness birds from Europe, Australia, and Asia.

Aligning your trip with the weather is a great place to start. For first-time safari-goers, the best time to visit Tanzania is typically during the dry season.

Wild animals are easy to track and spot.

What are the available seasons in Tanzania? There are two common seasons here in Tanzania, which are:

The dry season

June to October is the best time to go on a safari in Tanzania. The vegetation becomes sparse, making it easier for wildlife to spot.

Also, a good time to visit the coastline is when it’s cool and no rain.

While the summer months of December and January are ideal for beach lovers. The fresh ocean breeze helps to lower the high temperatures.

The wet/rainy season

Tanzania has two rainy seasons. The first rainy season runs from March to May, and the second, shorter rainy season occurs in November and December.

Other months are ideal for game drives and mountain climbing.

Best time for Safari in Tanzania

The best time to visit Tanzania for a safari is from July to October (peak season). June is also a good month, as the bush is still lush from the rains, though it makes it harder to see the game.

June is the best month for birding in southern highland parks, including Mikumi and Ruaha National Parks, with many migratory birds from around the world.

July to October

The dry season, with cool temperatures, is a great time to see wild and migratory animals.

It is easier for wild animals to track when bush density is lower, as game gathers around rivers and waterholes to drink.

During these cool and dry months, you also won’t find mosquitoes. August and September are the winter months.

The nights and early mornings can be cold, but the days remain warm and pleasant.

July to September is a good time to see the great migration in northern Tanzania. The wildebeest began crossing the Mara River towards Kenya.

In November, the herds begin moving southward back into the Serengeti from Kenya. At the same time, January is calving season in the southeastern Serengeti.

Difference between high and low seasons

Is the best knowledge in negotiating discounts with tour operators and travel agencies. Many people misunderstand these terms, and some of them do not understand them at all. These are the differences.

High or Peak Safari Season

• Time: June to October, December, January to February (dry season
• High rates for accommodation
• Booking is in advance
• Cool and dry weather
• Best time for Migration
• Best time for Photographic tours
• Crowded season

Low or Green  Safari Season

• Time: March, April, May, November
• Low rates or discounted rates
• No booking required
• Hot and wet weather
• Best time for calving
• Most scenic landscapes and colorations
• Less crowded

As we continue to explore the best time to visit this beautiful country.

The reality is there is no right or wrong time to visit this well-loved country, but as a rule of thumb.

The dry season is the most popular time to visit Africa and offers vibrant opportunities to experience what the continent has to offer.

We invite you to explore the best time to visit Tanzania based on the top destinations.

The Best time to visit Tanzania, Park by Park

Best time  to visit Serengeti National Park

The dry season in Serengeti National Park is from June to October and from December to February.

Serengeti National Park needs no introduction anymore when it comes to African safari.

If you’re visiting during this time and searching for the wildebeest migration.

Your best chances of seeing them are in the western and northern regions of the park during May and June.

If you come across videos and photos of the wildebeest migration, Serengeti is the source.

The Great Migration is the dream of every adventure seeker visiting the Serengeti.

Booking in advance, with a high likelihood of coinciding with the magic of the Mara River crossing, is key.

Remember, the best months for a high chance of seeing the Mara River crossing are July through September.

Missing the river crossing does not disqualify the Serengeti adventure.

January to February and March are the best months for wildebeest calving in the southern part of the park.

The rain and long grasses from mid-March through April and May make the giant, crowded park feel empty.

Offering a luxury experience for visitors who prefer fewer crowds.

Expect occasional short rain showers and many migratory bird species.

Enjoy the adventure when our best safari guides show the best skills on how to pilot a 4X4 WD safari car. Enjoy the ride.

Excited to visit Serengeti? Explore our trips right here.

Best time to visit Tarangire National Park

The dry season from June to November is the best time to visit this park. The park’s character during the dry season is unique.

The scarcity of water in most areas of the park attracts species from other parts of the park. Gather for water along the Tarangire River.

For the best experience, choose to stay in the southern part of the park. Offer you the best experience by escaping the crowd.

It is a fantastic experience and very intimate from June to November.

The wet season also brings benefits: fewer crowded days and the migratory bird species. Create a vibrant rhythm during this time of the year.

Beautiful vegetation across the park enriches the souls of nature lovers.

You could combine Tarangire National Park with another trip—either Serengeti or Lake Manyara — as an add-on.

Best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is well known as the African Eden. Very few places on Earth can be compared with the Ngorongoro Crater.

Game drives and walking trips within the Ngorongoro Crater. Start during the dry season, from June to October.

The dry season is the best time to spot the very rare and shy Black Rhino in this park. Though very crowded at the time.

Ngorongoro is a daring adventure for visitors to northern Tanzania.

The diversity of wildlife and nature is the main reason Ngorongoro is called the African Eden.

Visiting this park during the dry season is an unbelievable experience.

Visiting the Ngorongoro Crater during any season of the year is the best option to consider.

It offers the best option to visit other parks.  Learn more about Ngorongoro Crater. 

Best to climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro climbing is a rewarding challenge for anyone who dares to take it on. This giant in the African sky at 5,895 needs no introduction.

The best time for climbing is during the dry season, which is from June through September, October, December, January, and February.

We do not recommend climbing during the rainy season, which runs from March through May and from November through December.

The likelihood of a successful summit is low, but it also increases the risk for climbers. The heavy rain, mud, ice, and fog can detract from the experience.

Mount Kilimanjaro offers different climbing routes to the peak. Kilimanjaro remains an iconic symbol for Africa and one of the wonders of the world.

A free-standing mountain on Earth, but also an ice-capped mountain in tropical areas.

Are you ready to challenge and conquer the highest mountain in Africa? Pick your challenge here with our best-designed climbing package.

Best time to visit Zanzibar Island?

The beautiful land on the Indian Ocean is an unforgettable experience in Tanzania.

With two Islands of Pemba and Unguja, it offers relaxation not found in the other parts of Tanzania.

The best time to visit is from June to October, when the climate is dry and favorable.

September and August offer the best chance for Whale viewing and Snorkelling.

Restaurants and shops close in Zanzibar in June and July during Ramadan.

February and December are also the best times to explore Zanzibar and other islands.

Along the coast, temperatures during these months reach 40 degrees Celsius.

For those who love sunbathing and swimming, this is the best time to be in Zanzibar.

As in other areas of Tanzania, the wet season runs from March to May. The water, sunset, and other activities take a short leave.

Zanzibar is a one-stop safari shop in East Africa. You can travel to Zanzibar.

Enjoy a variety of activities, including Spice Tour, Dolphin Tour, and Safari Blue.

Combining it with a wildlife trip in Selous Game Reserve or Ngorongoro Crater is a good idea.

We invite you to explore our best places to visit in Zanzibar 

When to visit Ruaha National Park?

Ruaha “The lion Glade” of Africa. As in other parts of Tanzania, the best time to visit is from June to October, during the dry season.

The dry season offers abundant wildlife and the best views of the park.

The rare wild dogs are easy to see during this time, running from one side to the other.

Lion hunting in the glade is a fantastic experience at this time in Ruaha National Park.

Also, during this time, walking safaris are best because the grass is shorter.

This park is larger than the Serengeti and is consistently less crowded year-round.

The return of migratory birds during the wet season is an exceptional experience.

For bird lovers, this is bird heaven from Asia, Europe, and Australia. November, March, April, and May mark the rainy season for this park.

The weather differs from that in the northern circuit parks.

It gets hot during the wet season, and some camps close while a few remain open during the green season. Talk to us if you need more details.

For adventure seekers, Ruaha National Park is the best park to visit during the dry season in Tanzania’s southern highlands.

Remember, you can combine your trip with a visit to Selous Game Reserve or Mikumi National Park.

Chartered flights are available to connect you to other National parks in Tanzania.

Do you need something unique for your trip to Africa? You can choose from the list of our best southern safari packages in Tanzania.

Best time to visit Selous Game Reserve

The best months to visit are from June to November when the park is cool and dry.

Fewer water sources in waterholes during the dry season lead many animals to migrate.

To the nearby remaining sources of water within the park.

This creates an incredible experience for game viewing.

Enjoying the Mambo Jumbo of big wildcats on hunts and not forgetting about rare wild dogs.

Life here in Selous Game Reserve from June to August is vibrant.

The largest group of Lions, Elephants, giraffes, and African Cape Buffalo is everywhere.

The wet season coincides with other parks in Tanzania.

The heavy rain runs from March to May, causing wild animals to disperse.

The rain could affect some camps’ operations, and others close during the green season.

Despite that, this is the best time for migratory bird species to return and the calving season.

Each season offers natural gifts for your trips to Tanzania.

Selous can combine well with other destinations, including Zanzibar and Ruaha National Park.

When is the best time to visit the Tanzania coastline?

The best time to explore Tanzania’s coastline is during the dry season.

June to October, when the temperatures are pleasant, and there’s no chance of rain.

It is a great time to experience the crystal-clear azure waters and white-sand beaches.

December through mid-January is the best time to visit the coast due to the festive season.

Though it can get hectic, prices for services and accommodation may rise.

Planning is the best way to avoid late booking issues.

The rainy months of April and May are not suitable for the coastline. Rain during this period may continue for days without interruption.

This is not the right time to participate in water sports, as rain makes it very dangerous.

The storms during this period disrupt underwater visibility and disappoint scuba divers. To enjoy the coast at its best, aim for the dry months.

The Long Rainy Season

The long rains run from March to May, bringing the dry bush back to life with lush greenery.

This is the low season, and game parks are less crowded.

Hotels and lodges may close, or you can often get discounted rates at those that are open.

This is the best time for birdwatchers, offering opportunities to observe many rare bird species.

Avoid wildlife adventures during this season. The routes tend to get slippery and are challenging to navigate in the rain.

Remember, during the rains, malarial mosquitoes become very common.

If you’re traveling, make sure you get the right advice on antimalarial medications.

Best time to visit Tanzania, Month by Month

For a quick reset on when is the best time to visit Tanzania. This is a quick month-by-month guide from January to December. However, some events are subject to change.

January

The weather is hot along the coast and dry in other parts of the country. Suitable for wildlife safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro climbing

• Cultural event: Zanzibar Swahili Festival
• High season
• Accommodation is high
• Booking in advance is required
• Best time to visit Serengeti
• Zanzibar and Ngorongoro Crater

February

The weather remains hot, with occasional rain in other parts of the country. Flowers in Kitulo National Park and Cthe alving season in Southern Serengeti National Park

• Cultural event: Sauti za Busara
• High season
• Accommodation is high
• Booking in advance is required
• Best time to visit Serengeti
• Zanzibar and Ngorongoro Crater

March

The green season is starting to ring this month. Hotels and camps are mostly closed, with only a few remaining in operation in most parts of the country.

• Social & cultural events: Kilimanjaro Festival & Nyama choma Festival
• Low Season or green season
• Discounted rates for hotels and camps
• Less crowded
• Not recommended for Mountain climbing
• Seek social and cultural events

April

The rainy season is underway across the country. The vegetation becomes so green. Birds are returning from different parts of the world.

The wonders of the Serengeti wildebeest migration begin to migrate north and west in search of food.

• Low or green season
• Discounted rates continue
• Best time for bird watching
• Wildebeest migration begins from the south to the North and West of the Serengeti National Park.

May

This month marks the rainy season across the country. Actually, makes this month less favorable for many travelers.

• Discounted price for hotels
• Best for nature lovers
• Rain season
• Low season

June

At the end of the rainy season, a few safari trips start to roll over. The mountain climbing resumed, and the land began to dry out.

In many areas, including the Serengeti and other national parks. The migration begins to shed light on an impressive wildebeest show on the planet.

• Safari resumes
• Mountain climbing activities take off
• Wildebeest migration preparation in Serengeti National Park
• High season
• Zanzibar beach holiday

July

The weather is cool and dry. July marks the start of peak season in Tanzania. When a travel destination becomes so crowded with safari jeeps that it becomes difficult to move around, hotel prices rise.

Beach life becomes so vibrant, and the best months for wildlife viewing in all parks in Tanzania are

• Peak season
• High prices in hotels
• Best time to visit the National Parks
• Beach life resume
• Take part in the Ruaha Marathon
• Dhow Festival in Zanzibar
• Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF)

August

The dry season is the best time for the wildebeest migration across the Mara River. Wildlife viewing across the country is excellent.

• Peak season
• Mara River Crossing
• Wildebeest Migration
• The best time for Mount Kilimanjaro
• Mount Meru Climbing
• Zanzibar beach holiday

September

This is the best month in the country. The weather is favorable, and animal spotting is excellent. From Mount Kilimanjaro climbing to beach visits, everything works.

• Best time for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing
• Zanzibar Beach Holiday
• Game drives
• Bagamoyo Festival for Arts and Culture
• Peak season

October

The country remains dry yet offers excellent wildlife spotting. The best view of the environmental change from green to dry savanna adds spice to your view of the world.

• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Beach Holiday
• Spice tours
• Game drives
• Peak season

November

A short period of rainfall creates a short-lived low season. It’s still the best time for travel. A few hotels offer discounted rates during this month.

• Discount Rates
• Low Season
• Game drives in Ngorongoro and Tarangire national parks

December

The hot, dry weather is driving people to explore different destinations in Tanzania. This is the best month for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing and visiting other parks.

Don’t forget the wildebeest migration to the south of the Serengeti

• Serengeti for wildebeest migration
• Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing
• Beach Holiday
• Swahili fashion week
• Independence event
• Christmas

We invite you to explore tours and safari packages in Tanzania. And let us help you plan a trip to Tanzania for an unforgettable experience.

You can find our travel information pages on how to obtain a visa and explore destinations. Contact us and let’s plan together. Hakuna Matata.