WHAT IS BEST TIME TO VISIT TANZANIA?
Tanzania is a year-round destination, offering diverse experiences depending on the season. Understanding the climate and seasonal variations is crucial for planning a memorable trip. Here's a detailed guide to the best times to visit, based on weather, wildlife, and activities.
Dry Season (June to October)
The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Tanzania, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. The weather is cooler, and there's minimal rainfall, making it ideal for safaris and other outdoor activities.
- Wildlife Viewing: This period is perfect for spotting wildlife in national parks like Serengeti,Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. As water sources shrink, animals congregate around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to spot. The famous Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras in the Serengeti occurs during this time, particularly from July to September.
- Weather: Days are sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Nights can be cooler, especially in the highlands and northern areas, so packing layers is advisable.
- Activities: Besides safaris, this season is also ideal for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, with clear skies offering stunning views. Beach destinations like Zanzibar are also popular, with pleasant weather and warm ocean temperatures.
Wet Season (November to May)
The wet season in Tanzania is divided into two main periods: the short rains (November to December) and the long rains (March to May). While the wet season brings more rain and lush landscapes, it also offers unique opportunities for visitors.
- Short Rains (November to December):
- Overview: The short rains are usually brief and not as intense as the long rains. This period is known as the "green season," with the landscape becoming lush and vibrant.
- Wildlife Viewing: While the animal concentrations might not be as high as in the dry season, this is a great time for bird watching as migratory species arrive. The calving season for wildebeest also occurs during this time, offering opportunities to see newborn animals.
- Weather: Temperatures remain warm, averaging between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Afternoon showers are common but usually do not last long.
- Long Rains (March to May):
- Overview: The long rains bring more substantial and prolonged rainfall. This is typically considered the low season for tourism, with fewer visitors and lower prices.
- Wildlife Viewing: While the heavy rains can make some roads impassable, this period offers a different experience. The parks are lush, and the crowd levels are low, providing a more intimate wildlife experience.
- Weather: Rain is frequent, but temperatures stay warm, ranging from 25°C to 29°C (77°F to 84°F). Humidity levels are higher, especially along the coast.
Special Considerations
- Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing: The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons, either from June to October or January to February. These months offer the clearest and warmest conditions. For more details visit our Mount Kilimanjaro page.
- Zanzibar and Coastal Areas: For beach holidays, the dry season from June to October and the short dry spell in January and February are ideal. The long rains from March to May can bring heavy storms, affecting beach activities. For more details visit our Zanzibar page.