Best Time to Visit Tanzania
By Yulle Adventure
Tanzania can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on what you want to do. For most safaris, June to October is the best overall: dry weather, easy game viewing and the Mara River crossings later in the period. January to March is the best for calving season in the southern Serengeti, and April to May and November are the quietest and cheapest months.
Understanding Tanzania's seasons
Tanzania has two rainy seasons and two dry spells. The long rains fall roughly from March to May, and the short rains from November to December. The dry periods are June to October, which is the main dry season, and January to February, a shorter dry spell. Coastal areas and Zanzibar are hotter and more humid.
Month-by-month guide
| MonthSafari conditionsHighlights | ||
| January | Warm, short dry spell | Calving season begins in the south, Ndutu plains |
| February | Warm, mostly dry | Peak calving, strong predator action |
| March | Rains build | Herds still in the south, greener landscapes |
| April | Long rains | Quiet, lowest prices, some camps closed |
| May | Long rains ease | Herds moving north, still quiet |
| June | Dry season starts | Herds in the western Serengeti, good value |
| July | Dry | Herds near the Grumeti and heading north |
| August | Dry, peak season | Mara River crossings begin in the north |
| September | Dry, peak season | Crossings continue, best viewing |
| October | Dry, late peak | Herds in the north, fewer vehicles late in the month |
| November | Short rains begin | Herds head south, green and quiet |
| December | Short rains | Herds arrive on the southern plains, holiday crowds |
The exact timing of the migration shifts with the rains, so use this as a guide only.
Best time for each park
- Serengeti: all year, with the best region changing by month. See our guide to the best time to visit the Serengeti.
- Ngorongoro Crater: year-round, with June to October driest. See our Ngorongoro guide.
- Ndutu: January to March for calving. See our Ndutu guide.
- Tarangire: June to October, when elephants gather on the river.
- Lake Manyara: good through the year, with flamingos varying by season.
Best time for other trips
- Kilimanjaro: January to March and June to October are the usual windows, with drier conditions.
- Zanzibar and the coast: June to October is drier and cooler. March to May is wettest.
Choosing by priority
- Calving and predators: January to March.
- River crossings: August to October.
- Fewer crowds and low prices: April, May and November.
- Best weather overall: June to October.
- Birdwatching: November to April, with migratory birds present.
- Photography: dry months for open views, green months for light and clean air.
What to pack
Bring layers, because mornings are cold on the crater rim and in the Serengeti, plus sun protection and, in rainy periods, a waterproof jacket. Neutral colors are best on safari.
Peak versus low season
Peak season is June to October and the Christmas period. In peak season, book camps six to twelve months ahead. Low season offers lower rates and quieter parks in return for rain and some closures.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest month to visit? April and May usually offer the lowest prices.
When is the best time for a first safari? June to October, for the most dependable weather and game viewing.
Can I combine safari and beach? Yes. Many travelers add Zanzibar after a safari. Check the island's own entry and insurance rules before you travel.
Plan your Tanzania trip with Yulle Adventure
Tell us your travel month and we will build a route around the herds. Browse our or contact us for a quotation.