When is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?
In general, the best time to visit Tanzania depends on what you want to where you want to go, your budget, as well as your interests. Every time of the year has its pros and cons.
Here is an ultimate guide to help you decide the best time for your Tanzania Safari. To add on- every travel is different, so there is no correct choice on the best time to visit Tanzania. But one thing is for sure, a Tanzania safari is rewarding the whole year.
The best Months for Safari: June to October and December to February
These month are the best time for visiting Tanzania. That is why we rate them “Excellent”. When we talk of June to October, this of them as nature’s blockbuster season; sunny skies, wildlife galore, and the epic wildebeest migration.
December to February is like hitting the safari jackpot, with lush green landscapes and adorable baby animals everywhere. And March, April, May and November are also cool to go on a safari in Tanzania, that is if you love vibrant greenery, bird watching and having the park almost to yourself, these months are a hidden gem. It is important to remember there might be rain.
June to October (Dry Season)
This season offers the best wildlife viewing as animals gather around waterholes, with July and August being peak times for witnessing the dramatic wildebeest migration and river crossings, the weather is pleasant and sunny.
December to February (Dry Season)
The dry season continues providing excellent game viewing opportunities and pleasant weather; January and February are particularly special for witnessing the calving season in the southern Serengeti, attracting many predators.
March (Rainy Season)
The rain begins, making the landscape vibrant and lush, with excellent bird watching and fewer tourists for a more intimate safari experience. And lower prices as most lodges offer discounted rates.
April to May (Rainy Season)
Heavy rains received in these months make some roads challenging, but the scenery is spectacular, and the parks are quiet with lower rates, offering a serene and affordable safari experience.
November (Rainy Season)
Short rains start, rejuvenating the landscape with blooming flowers and green forests, while still offering good wildlife viewing in the northern parks. Also, it is generally less busy.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania: Month By Month Guide
This guide to best time to visit Tanzania highlights are based on climate, wildlife, safari experience and feedback from our local guide
Dry Season: The Best Season to Visit Tanzania
The dry season is the most popular time for a safari in Tanzania and here is why
During this time, wildlife gathers around rivers and waterholes, making it easier to spot animals. The pleasant temperatures of 25-27 °C with sunny, rain-free days create ideal conditions for game viewing and other outdoor activities
During the game drives, you see animals making their way to the waterholes in huge numbers for a much-needed refreshment.
Few mosquitoes and better road conditions enhance your safari experience. Also, the dry season offers the best opportunities to witness the wildebeest migration, especially the dramatic river crossings in the northern Serengeti. For those looking to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the clear blue skies and cooler temperatures from evening to early morning make for perfect climbing conditions.
When is the Dry Season?
- January
- February
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- late December
Pros and Cons of the Dry Season
Pros of visiting Tanzania during the Dry Season
- wildlife gathers around rivers and waterholes, making it easier to spot
- Pleasant temperatures of 25-27 °C with sunny and rain – free days
- July and August offers opportunities for witnessing the wildebeest migration and epic river crossings
- Fewer mosquitos
- Better road conditions and easier game drives
- Best time to visit the southern parks. Note: Northern parks are accessible all year round.
- Cool temperatures from evening to early morning
- Clear blue skies
- Best conditions for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – the tallest mountain in Africa.
Cons
- Higher prices for accommodations and safaris
- Unique accommodations tends to sell quick
- More tourists during this popular time, leading to busier parks and lodges
Rainy Season: For an intimate Tanzania safari experience
Also known as the wet or green season, the rainy season offers a different but equally captivating experience. Here is why; nature is vibrant and lush with blooming flowers and green landscapes. Bird watching is at its best, and the parks are less busy, providing a more intimate safari experience. Additionally, lower rates make it a more affordable time to visit Tanzania for a safari.
When is the Rainy Season?
- March
- April
- May
- November
- Beginning December
Pros of Visiting Tanzania During the Rainy Season
- Nature is vibrant and colorful with blooming waters and green forests and grassland
- Good all year wildlife viewing in northern Tanzania parks
- Excellent bird watching
- Lower rates making it a cheaper safari option
- Parks are less busy, providing a more intimate safari experience.
Cons of Visiting Tanzania During the Rainy Season
- Some roads to the parks may be difficult to navigate due to rain
- Higher chance of encountering mosquitoes
- Afternoon showers can disrupt plans
In Tanzania, expect dry and rainy season. Tanzania’s tourism can be divided into three distinct seasons; high, mind and low. These go hand-in-hand with Tanzania’s rainy and dry season. Each season has its own unique advantages and challenges, helping you decide the best time to your visit based on your preferences and priorities.
Low, Mid, and High Season in Tanzania
High Season: January, February, June to October, and December.
Visiting Tanzania during the high season guarantees ideal weather conditions and the best wildlife viewing opportunities. With sunny skies, pleasant temperatures, and the incredible wildebeest migration, it is perfect time for an unforgettable safari in Tanzania.
Pros
- Ideal weather conditions for safaris and beach visits
- Best wildlife viewing opportunities
Cons
- Parks and attractions can be busy
- Lodges and hotels are fully booked
- Availability of most tourist services and activities are hard to find
Mid – Season: March, November to December
The mid – season offers a balance between the high and low seasons, making it a great option for travelers seeking moderate prices and fewer crowds without compromising too much on weather and wildlife sightings.
Pros
- Moderate hotel rates
- Fewer tourists compared to the high season
Cons
- Some attractions may have limited availability
- Variable weather conditions
Low Season: April and May
The low season in Tanzania is perfect for budget – conscious travelers who don’t mind a bit of rain and are looking for a more peaceful and serene experience in Tanzania’s stunning landscape.
Pros
- Lowest hotel and tour rates
- Least busy parks and attractions
Cons
- Some lodges and camps may be closed
- Highest rainfall which can affect travel plans
Every season in Tanzania offers a unique and beautiful experience, ensuring a memorable trip no matter when you visit.
Experience the Great Migration Year-Round in Tanzania
You can experience the awe-inspiring Great Migration for all year long as the herds moves between the Masai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania. No matter the time of year you travel, you won’t miss this incredible event.
Here is a breakdown of when and where you can see the highlights, so you can choose what is most important to you.
December – March
- Witness the breathtaking Great Migration in the Southern Serengeti, with the magical sight of the calving season, where thousands of calves are born in February.
- Experience the thrilling river crossings in the northern Serengeti, a spectacular highlight of the Great Migration
In conclusion: The best time to visit Tanzania is based on weather and the experience you intend to do.
