Best Time to Visit Tanzania: Go-To Traveler's Guide

Tanzania is one of Africa’s most iconic destinations, offering travelers a remarkable blend of wildlife safaris, pristine beaches, and epic adventure. From witnessing the Great Migration on the Serengeti plains, to relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, to trekking to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, this country delivers unforgettable experiences year-round. But knowing the best time to visit Tanzania can make all the difference in your journey.

Timing matters because Tanzania’s climate and seasons dramatically shape your travel experience. The best time to go to Tanzania depends on what you want to see and do: wildlife viewing is closely tied to rainfall and migration patterns, while Zanzibar’s beach conditions shift with the trade winds, and Kilimanjaro treks vary by season. Weather, tourist crowds, and even park accessibility can all change from month to month. That’s why understanding Tanzania weather by month helps travelers plan smarter and get the most out of their trip.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the best time to travel to Tanzania—from seasonal highlights and climate details to practical advice on when to hike Kilimanjaro or visit Zanzibar. Whether you’re dreaming of witnessing the Great Migration, planning the best time for safari in Tanzania, or deciding on the best months to visit Tanzania for sunshine and beaches, this article breaks it down for you.

Quick Facts:

• Dry Season: June - October
• Wet Season: November - May
• High tourism season: July - March
• Low tourism season: April - May
• Hottest months: November - February
• Great weather: June - October

Best Time to Go to Tanzania – Month-by-Month Guide

The best time to visit Tanzania depends on what you want to experience—whether it’s the Serengeti’s Great Migration, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches. Because Tanzania weather month by month shifts between dry and rainy seasons, the best time to travel to Tanzania varies.
Generally, June to October is the best time for safari in Tanzania, with cooler temperatures and incredible wildlife viewing. But the green season from November to May also has its rewards—lush landscapes, birdlife, and fewer crowds. This guide highlights the best months to visit Tanzania, with seasonal tips to help you plan your ideal adventure.

January in Tanzania
Hot and dry
Wildebeest calving in southern Serengeti
Green landscapes
January in Tanzania is hot and sunny, with Zanzibar often seeing highs above 30°C. In the southern Serengeti, the short rains from November and December have left the grasslands lush and green—perfect conditions for the wildebeest calving season. Hundreds of thousands of calves are born, attracting lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Early January can still be busy due to holiday travelers, but the rest of the month is quieter and ideal for wildlife photography.

February in Tanzania
Hot and dry
Peak wildebeest calving
Abundant birdlife
February continues the wildebeest calving spectacle in the southern Serengeti. The weather is mostly dry and hot, though you may get occasional showers later in the month. Migratory birds are in full display, and with fewer tourists around, this is a great time to visit for a more peaceful safari experience. Zanzibar remains perfect for beach holidays.

March in Tanzania
Start of the long rains (mid-month)
Lower lodge rates
Quieter parks
March marks the beginning of the green season, with heavier rains arriving mid-month. This is low tourist season, which means you can find excellent lodge deals. Some roads in the national parks may become muddy or inaccessible, making safaris more adventurous. Beach conditions aren’t ideal, and Kilimanjaro climbs are trickier due to slippery trails.

April in Tanzania
Peak rainy season
Turtle hatching in Mafia Archipelago
Excellent birding
April is the wettest month of the year, with heavy downpours and high humidity. Wildlife is still present in the Serengeti, and birdwatching is superb. On Mafia Island, green sea turtles begin hatching—a magical sight for those who don’t mind traveling in the rain. Many lodges close for maintenance, and mosquitoes are more common.

May in Tanzania
Rains taper off mid-month
Grumeti River crossings begin
Cycling opportunities
May is a transition month: the rains ease by mid-month, leaving fresh, green landscapes. In the Serengeti, the wildebeest begin their trek north, reaching the Grumeti River, where dramatic crocodile-filled crossings occur from May into June. Tourist numbers remain low, and adventurous travelers can enjoy cycling trips in northern Tanzania.

June in Tanzania
Start of high season
Long dry season begins
Cooler temperatures
June kicks off Tanzania’s long dry season and the high tourism period. Days are sunny and dry, nights cooler—especially on safari. The wildebeest herds move toward the northern Serengeti and prepare for the River Mara crossings. Kilimanjaro climbs are popular, though it’s the coldest stretch for trekkers.

Averages
Whether you choose the dry season (June–October) or the green season (November–May), Tanzania delivers unforgettable experiences. The dry months make wildlife easier to spot, with cooler mornings, fewer insects, and classic safari conditions. The wet season brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds, budget-friendly lodge rates, and unique highlights like wildebeest calving and excellent birdwatching. Ultimately, the best time to go to Tanzania depends on your interests—whether it’s game viewing, photography, birding, or simply avoiding the crowds.

Ready to plan your trip? Contact our Trip Planners today and let us help you choose the perfect season for your Tanzania adventure.