When to visit Tanzania
Let us guide you
Best time to visit Tanzania
There is no 'best' time to visit as there are specific benefits of travelling at different times of year. However, it is a seasonal destination and the wildlife moves year round, so being in the right place at the right time is key.
THE SEASONS
January & February - The Short Dry Season
March to May - The Wet Season
June to October - The Long Dry Season
November & December - Rain & Sun
Tanzania in January
Daytime temperature: 29 degrees | Average rainfall: 90mm per month
The short dry season. The Great Migration is in Southern Serengeti for calving season; a very exciting time of year with high predator activity. Temperatures and humidity rise, making it a lovely time to visit Zanzibar for some winter sun - though there is some wind on the Eastern coast at this time of year. There is a chance of rain on safari though these tend to be light showers.
Tanzania in February
Daytime temperature: 30 degrees | Average rainfall: 90mm per month
The short dry season. The Great Migration is still in Southern Serengeti for calving season. This is the hottest time of year to be in Zanzibar. Like January, there is chance of some rain on safari. A great time to travel overall.
Tanzania in March
Daytime temperature: 28 degrees | Average rainfall: 130mm
The migrating herds are starting to leave Ndutu, heading North West towards the Grumeti. Afternoon downpours are normal, but wildlife viewing is still very good and there are a lot of migratory birds to observe. A great time of year to take advantage of low season rates.
Tanzania in April & May
Daytime temperature: 26 degrees | Average rainfall: 300mm
April is a period of heavy rain so we would advise against travelling then. May can be wonderful if the rains have finished and accommodation rates are at their lowest then.
Tanzania in June
Daytime temperature: 24 degrees | Average rainfall: 30mm
The sun starts to shine! The land is very green -after all the rain- with lush grass and thick bush in the likes of Ruaha. It is an excellent time to travel the Northern Circuit, particularly for bird watchers. The Great Migration will be in the Grumeti area of the Serengeti heading North.
Tanzania in July
Daytime temperature: 25 degrees | Average rainfall: 20mm
The beginning of the peak safari season. The land dries further and spotting game becomes easier, especially in the Southern Parks. The Great Migration moves further North and elephants gather in Tarangire National Park.
Tanzania in August
Daytime temperature: 26 degrees | Average rainfall: 30mm
Peak season. The Great Migration is still in Northern Serengeti with frequent river crossings on display! The dense bush in Southern Tanzania reduces further, making spotting game much easier. Optimum safari & beach conditions twinned with school holidays make this is a very popular time to travel.
Tanzania in September
Daytime temperature: 27 degrees | Average rainfall: 30mm
The Great Migration is still in the North with herds on both sides of the Kenya /Tanzania border. Large elephant herds gather in Tarangire National Park. A good time to be in Southern Tanzania also. A fantastic month to travel all round.
Tanzania in October
Daytime temperature: 28 degrees | Average rainfall: 50mm
The Great Migration is still split between the Mara and Serengeti. The Southern Parks are particularly rewarding. The land is generally very dry and brown with short grass at this time of year.
Tanzania in November
Daytime temperature: 29 degrees | Average rainfall: 130mm
The rains arrive; typically light showers in the afternoon and/or overnight rain. This is a great time to take advantage of low season rates and is still a popular time to travel. The Great Migration points South East from the Kenya/Tanzania border into Eastern Serengeti.
Tanzania in December
Daytime temperature: 29 degrees | Average rainfall: 100mm
Safari conditions are good with The Great Migration travelling South towards Ndutu. There is chance of rain still; typically light showers in the afternoon and/or overnight rain. The weather in lovely towards the end of the month into the festive/New Year break - this time of year is very popular and needs to be booked well in advance.
Tanzania Safari Circuits
