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
In the northern parks, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara, January marks the calving season in the southern Serengeti. Thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators and providing dramatic wildlife encounters. Southern parks such as Selous, Ruaha, and Mikumi are hot and humid, with wildlife dispersed across the savannah. Western parks, including Katavi and Mahale, remain wet and difficult to access, while Zanzibar enjoys warm, sunny weather with occasional short showers. Pricing is moderate, with fewer tourists than in the peak dry season, making this a good time for value-conscious travellers.
Tanzania in February
Daytime temperature: 30 degrees | Average rainfall: 90mm per month
Northern parks remain a hotspot for calving and predator activity, while Tarangire is quieter but still rewarding. Southern parks experience increasing rainfall, dispersing wildlife and making game drives more challenging. Western parks remain largely inaccessible. Zanzibar continues to offer warm temperatures with intermittent showers. Prices are similar to January, generally moderate, though high-demand lodges in the northern parks may rise slightly due to the calving spectacle.
Tanzania in March
Daytime temperature: 28 degrees | Average rainfall: 130mm
March ushers in the long rains in northern Tanzania, with the Serengeti herds beginning to shift northwards. Ngorongoro remains reliable for year-round wildlife. Southern parks experience heavier rains, and some lodges close for maintenance. Western parks are mostly inaccessible due to the wet conditions. Zanzibar sees hotter, more humid weather with frequent showers. Pricing drops slightly in most safari regions because of reduced tourist numbers, offering excellent deals for flexible travellers.
Tanzania in April
Daytime temperature: 26 degrees | Average rainfall: 300mm
April represents the peak of the long rains in northern parks, making travel challenging, though the landscapes are at their lushest and photogenic. Southern parks face heavy rains, limiting wildlife visibility, and many camps close. Western parks remain closed. Zanzibar experiences its wettest month, which is generally less popular with tourists. Prices are low across most safari circuits and the beaches, making this the ultimate off-season for budget-conscious travellers.
Tanzania in May
Daytime temperature: 26 degrees | Average rainfall: 300mm
The rains begin to ease in northern parks, and the Serengeti herds start moving towards the central and western corridors. Southern parks gradually reopen, with abundant birdlife. Western parks remain largely inaccessible. Zanzibar emerges from the rainy season, with quieter beaches and early deals. Pricing begins to rise slightly in preparation for the upcoming dry season, but overall value remains high.
Tanzania in June
Daytime temperature: 24 degrees | Average rainfall: 30mm
June marks the start of the dry season in northern parks. Wildlife concentrates near rivers and waterholes, and the Great Migration moves into the western Serengeti, offering spectacular river crossing sightings. Southern parks, including Ruaha and Nyerere, offer excellent game viewing, and Western parks reopen with high concentrations of animals. Zanzibar is warm and dry, perfect for combining safari and beach. Prices increase as June is the start of high season for safaris, particularly in the northern circuit.
Tanzania in July
Daytime temperature: 25 degrees | Average rainfall: 20mm
July is one of the best months for wildlife viewing. The Serengeti Migration continues north, with dramatic river crossings, while Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara all offer excellent wildlife concentrations. Southern parks remain optimal for big cats and elephants, and Western parks are at their wildlife peak. Zanzibar enjoys clear skies and calm seas. Prices are at their peak in July, with lodges often fully booked, reflecting the high demand for prime safari experiences.
Tanzania in August
Daytime temperature: 26 degrees | Average rainfall: 30mm
Northern parks remain spectacular, with migration herds crossing the Mara and Grumeti Rivers. Southern parks, particularly Ruaha, offer excellent predator sightings, and Nyerere is ideal for boat and walking safaris. Western parks continue to provide exclusive wildlife encounters. Zanzibar has perfect beach conditions. Pricing remains high throughout the month, with early booking essential.
Tanzania in September
Daytime temperature: 27 degrees | Average rainfall: 30mm
The Serengeti herds are mostly in the northern regions, providing exceptional viewing opportunities. Ngorongoro and Tarangire offer excellent dry-season wildlife sightings. Southern parks show large concentrations of animals around water sources, and Western parks are still accessible with good visibility. Zanzibar is dry and sunny, ideal for diving and snorkelling. Prices remain high, but the slightly lower crowds compared with July and August make September attractive for travellers seeking balance.
Tanzania in October
Daytime temperature: 28 degrees | Average rainfall: 50mm
The Migration gradually moves southwards in the northern Serengeti, while Tarangire and Ngorongoro maintain excellent wildlife viewing. Southern parks feature concentrated wildlife, with prime months for spotting predators. Western parks remain rewarding, though some camps close towards the end of the month. Zanzibar is hot, with early short rains possible. Prices begin to reduce slightly after the peak season, offering moderate savings for those planning ahead.
Tanzania in November
Daytime temperature: 29 degrees | Average rainfall: 130mm
Short rains arrive in the northern parks, typically as afternoon showers, with the Migration moving towards the southern Serengeti. Southern parks enter the green season, offering lush landscapes and fewer crowds, though wildlife disperses. Western parks start closing for the wet season. Zanzibar sees light rains but continues to offer sunny days. Prices are lower across most safari circuits and beaches, making November an excellent off-peak travel option.
Tanzania in December
Daytime temperature: 29 degrees | Average rainfall: 100mm
Migration herds return to the southern Serengeti, setting the stage for calving season. Southern parks remain rewarding, with elephants and predators easily seen. Western parks are largely closed due to rains. Zanzibar experiences warm, sunny festive-season weather but with increased visitor numbers. Prices rise again for December, especially around the holidays, reflecting both the safari and beach demand.
Tanzania Safari Circuits
