When is the best time to visit Tanzania?

Best time to visit Tanzania month-by-month

1. June
The dry season starts with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. The Great Migration moves to the Northern Serengeti. It's a good time for chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream National Parks.

2. July
Peak of the dry season, offering the best wildlife viewing in most national parks. Witness the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration in the Northern Serengeti. Ideal time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with clear skies.

3. August
High season for tourism; expect more crowds in popular parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Excellent time for wildlife viewing, especially in the Northern Serengeti. The weather remains dry and comfortable for most activities.

4. September
Wildlife viewing remains fantastic in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Witness the herds of the Great Migration go to the Masai Mara from the Serengeti. The weather is pleasant for safaris and other outdoor activities.

5. October
The Great Migration is found in Masai Mara, Kenya, but you still have a high chance of doing many activities in Tanzania. Good time for wildlife viewing in other parks as well. Drier weather makes Zanzibar and the coast more appealing for beach activities.

6. January
Good weather for wildlife viewing in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, as well as Zanzibar and the Tanzanian coast. Excellent for birdwatching in various national parks. Great time for scuba diving and snorkeling off the coast of Zanzibar.

7. February
It's still a good time for wildlife viewing in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Ideal for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, with relatively clear skies. Diving and snorkeling opportunities remain excellent in Zanzibar.

8. March
The Great Migration begins in the Southern Serengeti during wildebeest calving season. Good conditions for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro. Lower rates and fewer tourists in many areas are due to the shoulder season.

9. April
The rainy season begins, leading to lower visitor numbers and more affordable accommodations. The Great Migration moves towards the Western Serengeti. Not recommended for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro due to heavy rainfall.

10. May
Green season with lush landscapes and newborn wildlife. Best time for birdwatching, as migratory birds are present. Still not recommended for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro due to heavy rainfall.

11. November
Short rains begin, bringing the green season and lush landscapes. Fewer tourists and lower rates make it an attractive time to visit for budget travelers. The Great Migration herds start moving towards the Southern Serengeti.

12. December
The green season continues with newborn animals and lush vegetation. Ideal for birdwatching as migratory birds are still present. It's a good time to explore cultural experiences and local festivals.

The best time to visit Tanzania (by activities and things to do in 2024 and 2025)

1. Tanzanian wildlife safaris
The dry season from June to October offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities as animals gather around water sources. Additionally, the Great Migration usually occurs from July to September, when millions of wildebeest and other animals move in search of grazing areas.

2. Kilimanjaro climbing
The dry seasons from January to March and June to October are ideal for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. These months generally have clear skies, making it easier to enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit.

3. Zanzibar beach and the Tanzanian Coast
The best time to visit Zanzibar and the coastal areas is during the dry season from June to October. The weather is pleasant, and the ocean is great for swimming and diving.

4. Cultural experiences
Throughout the year, you can explore the rich cultural heritage of Tanzania. The dry season is more comfortable for visiting cultural sites and engaging in local festivals.

5. Birdwatching
The best time for birdwatching is during the wet season from November to April, when migratory birds visit the country. Tanzania is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 1,100 bird species recorded. The lush vegetation and water sources attract a plethora of avian species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

What is the rainy season in Tanzania?

The rainy season in Tanzania typically occurs in two periods: the long rains and the short rains. The long rains usually take place from April to May, while the short rains occur in November. During these periods, rainfall can be heavy and frequent, which may make travel and outdoor activities more challenging. If you're planning a trip to Tanzania, it's best to avoid these rainy seasons and instead visit during the dry season, which runs from June to September. This is typically the best time to see wildlife and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and safari tours.

Is it possible to see the Great Migration in Tanzania?

Yes, it is possible to see the Great Migration in Tanzania. The Great Migration is an annual event where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the Serengeti in search of food and water. The best time to see the Great Migration in Tanzania is typically between July and October, as this is when the herds are crossing the Mara River. However, the exact timing of the migration can vary from year to year depending on rainfall patterns, so it's best to check with a local tour operator or safari guide for the most up-to-date information.

What is the temperature like in Tanzania during the dry season?

During the dry season in Tanzania, which runs from June to October, the temperature is generally warm and pleasant with an average high of around 28°C (82°F) during the day and cooler temperatures at night. However, temperatures can vary depending on the specific location within Tanzania. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast for your specific destination before traveling.