Like many travelers, you want your vacation to be unforgettable—and timing plays a big role in that. This often leads to the question: “When is the best time to visit Tanzania?” The answer depends on what you want to see and how you plan to experience it.
Weather is one of the biggest factors. While Tanzania is a year-round destination, the dry season (June to October) is widely considered the best time for most travelers. However, your ideal time may also depend on the activities you’re interested in, the level of crowds you prefer, and your budget, as seasonal costs can vary.
Why June to October is the best time to visit Tanzania?
- First of all, the skies are clear and most days are sunny (perfect weather for your stay)
- Secondly, animals are easier to spot as with water shortages the vegetation weakens thus improving the visibility of animals who will be concentrated at water sources
- Furthermore, this period will cover the two highlights of the migration “The Grumeti river crossing” and “The Mara river crossing”
- Easy mobility, moving around is easier when it is dry unlike the rainy season when tracks are muddy
- Moreover, it is the perfect time to hike Kilimanjaro as it’s favorable weather and more summit chances
- easier to do group tours, group activities, and greater parties
- lastly, there are plenty more options for activities to do during the dry season
Few considerations against this period
- Prices are high
- Many travelers as it is peak season, preference is a quiet trip
- Very dusty roads
Other favorable times to visit Tanzania
November to march
November;
- It is expected to be dry, sunny, and with fewer travelers so it is a great time for a visit.
- Little a few chances for short rains which are expected in December & January.
December;
- The great wildebeest migration herds are back in the Serengeti.
- The weather will be between sunny and short rain showers (to reduce the dust).
- The scenery starts to get greener & beautiful.
- Small peak season around festival season.
January to February;
- The great wildebeest migration calving season is yet another highlight of the migration with about half a million new-borns through this period.
- It is also an excellent time for predator action.
- The scenery is green and beautiful.
March;
- This is a grey time, not clear if it will be dry or perhaps the rainy season will begin.
- Almost the end of the wildebeest calving season.
April to May;
This is probably the least favorable time to visit Tanzania as it is expected to be the rainy season therefore very difficult to move around or enjoy the sun.
There are some advantages of this period;
- Lower rates
- Green and beautiful
- Migratory birds are present and bird watching is at its best
- Fewer travelers (low season).
