Tanzania is often referred to as the “Land of Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, and Zanzibar,” highlighting its most iconic attractions and it was the 5th country visited on our 9-month Cairo to Cape Town trip.
Before we get on to the important topic of Tanzania weather and answer your question of when is the best time to visit Tanzania, let’s very briefly convince you why this incredible country is worth visiting in the first place.
Is Tanzania Worth Visiting?
There are MANY reasons to visit Tanzania but let’s start with the obvious ones shall we?!
Tanzania is world-renowned for its safari experiences in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, and particularly the Great Migration spectacle where millions of wildebeest and zebras are on the move.
Mount Kilimanjaro‘s majestic presence stands tall as Africa’s highest peak, drawing adventurers to conquer its slopes and witness panoramic views.
On the other hand, if you just want to chill and relax, you have the pristine paradise beaches of Zanzibar. A bubble of idyllic island life, where we spent the most amazing 6 weeks of our Tanzania trip.
All the while immersing yourself in the country’s rich culture and traditions feeling welcome from each and every person you meet. This special warmth encourages and allows travellers to engage with local communities and partake in cultural exchanges.
Whether exploring historical sites or indulging in the beauty of its landscapes, in answering the question “Is Tanzania worth visiting?” we hope that our answer is clear.
But just to be sure, our answer is – absolutely Tanzania is worth visiting and truly has something to offer every type of traveler.
Now that we have persuaded you to visit this fascinating country, let’s see when is the best time to visit Tanzania.
Tanzania Weather: Seasons in Tanzania
The best time to visit Tanzania depends on various factors such as weather preferences, wildlife viewing, and specific activities you plan to engage in during your trip.
Generally, Tanzania has two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania: Dry Season (June to October)
Best for Wildlife Viewing: This period is considered the prime time for safaris and wildlife viewing in Tanzania. The dry season offers excellent opportunities to spot wildlife, as animals gather around water sources in national parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Pleasant Weather: Days are generally cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), creating comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania: Great Migration (July to September):
Witness the Great Migration: The famous Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Maasai Mara, typically occurs during these months. It’s a spectacular wildlife event that draws visitors from around the world.
We visited Tanzania during August/September. Although we did not experience the Great Migration due to already being on a safari in Kenya weeks before, we thoroughly enjoyed the Tanzania weather on the stunning beaches of Zanzibar.
Tanzania experiences two rainy seasons: Long Rains (March to May): This period usually has heavier rainfall, especially in April and May, creating lush, green landscapes. Short Rains (November to December): Shorter periods of rain, typically with sporadic showers.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania: Shoulder Seasons (November to March and June)
November: This month marks the short rainy season with sporadic showers, yet it’s the beginning of the Great Migration’s return to the southern Serengeti.
December to March: Considered a favorable time for safaris as wildlife populations are still abundant, and the weather remains relatively dry before the long rains start.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania: Rainy Season (April to May and November)
April to May: These months constitute the long rainy season in Tanzania, experiencing heavier rainfall, especially in April. While this time is less popular for safaris, it offers lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and discounted rates on accommodations.
November: Short rains occur during this month, making it a transitional period leading into the short dry season.
Coastal Considerations: Coastal areas like Zanzibar experience a tropical climate, making the dry season from June to October a favorable time for beach holidays and water activities.
What Packing Essentials Do I Need For My Tanzania Holiday?
This is the same list we recommend for the majority of African travels (and travel in general).
- Hiking boots and warm gear – it gets cold on the top of the highest mountain in Africa
- Head torch – for electricity outages.
- Light clothes/sun hat – it gets hot on those Zanzibar beaches.
- Dry bag – handy for beach days, protection of everyday items if it rains.
- Rain jacket – if you visit during the wet season.
- Battery pack – for those long bus journeys as well as electricity outages.
- Download apps such as Google Translate, Google Maps, and Booking.com.
- Utilize budget apps such as TravelSpend to keep track of your spending.
- Multi Travel Adapter – so you are prepared for any plug type!
- A sense of adventure and a SMILE!
You can find the full list of our travel tips below.
Enjoy Your Tanzania Holiday!
Ultimately, the best time to visit Tanzania depends on your interests. For optimal wildlife viewing and safari experiences, the dry season, particularly from June to October, is recommended.
However, the rainy seasons offer lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and unique opportunities like birdwatching and discounted rates.
Considering the Great Migration schedule might also influence your travel plans if witnessing this natural spectacle is a priority.
Whenever it is you decide is the best time to visit Tanzania, we are sure that like us, you will have the most amazing time.
We would love to hear if you are planning a Tanzania Holiday or if you have already been so feel free to leave a comment below or message us on our socials.
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