When to go to Tanzania

Planning your adventure to Tanzania with Geovannah Tanzania Adventures is an exciting journey that can be enjoyed year-round. Each month offers unique experiences, from witnessing the Great Migration to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Our guide below provides a month-by-month breakdown to help you choose the best time to visit based on your interests and desired activities.

Not sure when to go to tanzania?

Choosing the best time to visit Tanzania depends on what you want to experience. Whether it's witnessing the Great Migration, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on Zanzibar's beaches, there's an ideal time for every adventure. Our month-by-month guide helps you navigate the seasons, highlighting the best times for various activities and the different parks to explore.

January

Weather: Warm and dry with occasional short rains.
Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire.
Highlights:

  • Ideal for wildlife safaris in Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
  • Calving season in the Serengeti, attracting predators.
    Season: High
    Description: January is a great time for wildlife enthusiasts to see newborns and predator-prey interactions. The landscape is lush from the short rains, making it picturesque for photography. It’s also a fantastic time for bird watchers as many migratory species are present. Visitor numbers are moderate, providing an excellent balance between great wildlife sightings and fewer crowds.

February

Weather: Warm and dry, similar to January.
Parks: Serengeti, Lake Manyara.
Highlights:

  • Excellent for bird watching as migratory birds are present.
  • Continued calving season in the Serengeti.
    Season: High
    Description: February continues the calving season, providing exceptional opportunities to witness the young wildlife and predatory action. Bird watchers can enjoy a vibrant display of migratory birds. The weather is stable, making it perfect for outdoor activities and safaris. With moderate visitor numbers, you can enjoy the attractions without the peak season rush.

March

Weather: Beginning of the long rainy season.
Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater.
Highlights:

  • Lesser crowds, offering a more private safari experience.
  • Green landscapes and vibrant birdlife.
    Season: Low
    Description: March marks the beginning of the long rains, transforming the landscapes into lush greenery. This is a perfect time for budget travelers as safari prices are generally lower, and the parks are less crowded. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of birdlife, and photographers can capture stunning scenery with dramatic skies. Though wildlife might be slightly harder to spot, the experience is more intimate.

April

Weather: Peak of the long rainy season.
Parks: Serengeti, Tarangire, Selous.
Highlights:

  • Best time for budget travelers as rates are lower.
  • Lush scenery and dramatic thunderstorms.
    Season: Low
    Description: April is ideal for budget-conscious travelers as the rainy season brings lower rates and fewer tourists. The lush, green landscapes are incredibly beautiful, and the dramatic thunderstorms can be quite a spectacle. This is a great time for photographers and nature lovers who enjoy the vibrant scenery and the sound of rain in the African wilderness. The parks are quieter, providing a more exclusive experience.

May

Weather: End of the long rainy season, landscapes are green and beautiful.
Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Ruaha.
Highlights:

  • Ideal for photography with clear air and vibrant landscapes.
  • Lesser tourists and discounted rates.
    Season: Low
    Description: May sees the end of the long rains, leaving behind lush, green landscapes perfect for photography. The clear air and bright, vibrant colors make this an excellent time for capturing stunning images of Tanzania’s natural beauty. Fewer tourists mean more peaceful and exclusive experiences at the parks, along with attractive discounts on travel and accommodations. This is a fantastic time for those who appreciate tranquility and natural beauty.

June

Weather: Start of the dry season, cooler temperatures.
Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire.
Highlights:

  • Great for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
  • Beginning of the Great Migration in the Serengeti.
    Season: High
    Description: June marks the beginning of the dry season, bringing cooler temperatures and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Animals begin to gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. This month also sees the start of the Great Migration in the Serengeti, one of nature’s most spectacular events. The dry, comfortable weather is ideal for outdoor activities and safaris, drawing many visitors to the parks.

July

Weather: Cool and dry, perfect for outdoor activities.
Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro.
Highlights:

  • Peak season for the Great Migration in the Serengeti.
  • Ideal conditions for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
    Season: High
    Description: July offers cool, dry weather, perfect for safaris and other outdoor adventures. It’s the peak season for the Great Migration in the Serengeti, where vast herds of wildebeest and zebra can be seen moving across the plains. This is also an ideal time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, with clear skies and stable weather conditions. The combination of wildlife viewing and mountain trekking makes July a highly popular month for visitors.

August

Weather: Cool and dry, excellent visibility.
Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar.
Highlights:

  • Witness river crossings during the Great Migration.
  • Perfect for beach getaways in Zanzibar and coastal areas.
    Season: High
    Description: August is known for its cool, dry weather and excellent visibility, making it perfect for safaris. One of the highlights is witnessing the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration in the Serengeti. This month is also ideal for beach holidays in Zanzibar, where you can relax on pristine beaches and enjoy water activities. The combination of thrilling wildlife encounters and serene beach experiences makes August a favorite among travelers.

September

Weather: Dry season continues, warm temperatures.
Parks: Serengeti, Ruaha, Selous.
Highlights:

  • Prime time for wildlife viewing in all major parks.
  • Clear skies for stargazing and night game drives.
    Season: High
    Description: September continues the dry season with warm temperatures and prime wildlife viewing conditions. All major parks offer excellent game viewing as animals congregate around diminishing water sources. Clear skies provide perfect conditions for stargazing and night game drives, adding an extra dimension to your safari experience. The consistent weather and abundant wildlife make September an excellent time to visit Tanzania.

October

Weather: End of the dry season, temperatures start to rise.
Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire.
Highlights:

  • Great for seeing large herds of animals before the rains.
  • Cultural tours and local festivals.
    Season: High
    Description: October is the end of the dry season, with temperatures starting to rise. This is a great time to see large herds of animals gathering before the onset of the rains. Cultural tours and local festivals add a vibrant touch to your visit, allowing you to experience Tanzania’s rich heritage. The combination of wildlife viewing and cultural immersion makes October an appealing month for travelers seeking diverse experiences.

November

Weather: Short rainy season begins.
Parks: Serengeti, Lake Manyara, Selous.
Highlights:

  • Migratory birds return, making it a good time for bird watching.
  • Reduced tourist crowds, offering a more intimate experience.
    Season: Low
    Description: November ushers in the short rainy season, bringing the return of migratory birds and making it a great time for bird watching. Reduced tourist crowds provide a more intimate and peaceful safari experience. The rains rejuvenate the landscape, adding a fresh vibrancy to the scenery. November is perfect for those who enjoy bird watching, appreciate quieter parks, and don’t mind occasional showers.

December

Weather: Warm with occasional short rains.
Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar.
Highlights:

  • Festive season, ideal for family vacations.
  • Early stages of the wildebeest calving season.
    Season: High
    Description: December is a warm month with occasional short rains, marking the festive season. It’s an ideal time for family vacations, offering a mix of wildlife adventures and beach relaxation in Zanzibar. The early stages of the wildebeest calving season in the Serengeti add to the excitement, providing unique wildlife viewing opportunities. December’s festive atmosphere and diverse experiences make it a popular time to visit Tanzania.

Conclusion

Tanzania is a diverse and breathtaking destination year-round. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a safari, the challenge of a mountain climb, or the relaxation of a beach holiday, Geovannah Tanzania Adventures is here to make your dream trip a reality. Contact us today to start planning your perfect Tanzanian adventure.