Best Time to Go to Tanzania
Tanzania has so much to offer, from the mystery of Olduvai Gorge, the awe-inspiring Mt Kilimanjaro, the abundant wildlife and nomadic tribes of the Serengeti plains, to historic Stone Town and the enchanting beach paradise of Zanzibar.
The best time to visit Tanzania depends on your purpose of visit and where you want to go. This article will make it easy for you to decide the best time to visit Tanzania.
Tanzania Weather and Climate
Tanzania has a tropical climate keeping temperatures above 20°C throughout the year, with the exception of some slightly cooler highland regions which range between 10 and 20°C.
However, most visitors will be keen to avoid rain on a Tanzania safari and in this regard, there is both a dry season and a wet season which can make a significant difference for wildlife encounters.
Dry season (June to October)
Tourism and Safaris in Tanzania reach a peak between the months of June and October when rainfall is almost non existent.
Although the popular resorts and National Parks will be more crowded during this period, conditions are usually more suitable to enjoy the surroundings while also making it far easier to locate wildlife on a safari. Expect clear blue skies, consistently warm weather, less humidity and cool evenings in the dry season.
Rainy season (November to May)
The rainy season is divided into two categories, referred to as the “long and “short rains”.
November to February is still a popular time given that the short rains have little impact on a wildlife safari or beach vacation. Rainfall during these months is usually sporadic, unpredictable and short lived, while the scenery can sometimes be hampered by cloudy skies.
Most of Tanzania’s rainfall is received between the months of March and May, when it is usually cloudy, humid and wet.
Rain is common almost every day during this period and can have a negative effect on a safari experience, as the movement of local wildlife is highly unpredictable when animals are not reliant on specific watering holes.
Tour Guide Advice: Avoid the peak season and travel in the shoulder month of October. There is always the possibility of rain, but it should have little impact on your trip and wildlife is still plentiful on safaris at this time of year.
Furthermore, the cost of safaris, accommodation and flights can usually be found for a fraction of the cost.
Tanzania Meteorological Agency
For more accurate and up to date weather forecasts please visit Tanzania Meteorological Agency and also visit their youtube channel where they upload weather forecast videos daily.