When is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?

Tanzania is widely recognized as one of the most magnificent tourist destinations in Africa, renowned for its beautiful safaris, the Great Migration, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the pristine beaches of Zanzibar. However, when is the most favorable time to travel to Tanzania? The answer is contingent on the activities that you are interested in participating in, such as going on a hike, watching wildlife, or relaxing at the beach.

In this guide, Tanzania’s seasons and the optimum months to visit are broken down according to the various activities that may be enjoyed there.

Best Time for Safari in Tanzania

A safari in Tanzania is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list, and the optimum time to visit the park depends on what you want to see and the park itself.

1. Serengeti & the Great Migration

✔️ Best Time: June – October (Dry Season)
✔️ Why? Animals gather near water sources, and the Great Migration’s famous river crossings happen in July – October.
✔️ Calving Season: January – March is great for seeing newborn wildebeests and predator action.

2. Ngorongoro Crater – Big Five Safari

✔️ Best Time: Year-round, but best from June – October for dry season game viewing.
✔️ Why? Animals stay within the crater, making it an excellent spot for Big Five sightings.

3. Tarangire & Lake Manyara – Elephants & Tree-Climbing Lions

✔️ Best Time: June – October
✔️ Why? Tarangire’s elephant herds are most visible, and Lake Manyara’s tree-climbing lions are easier to spot.

4. Selous & Ruaha – Off-the-Beaten-Path Safaris

✔️ Best Time: June – October
✔️ Why? These lesser-known parks offer walking safaris, boat safaris, and fewer crowds.

Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

January through March and June through October are the best times to visit.
How come? During these months, the weather is consistent, the skies are clear, and there is a low amount of rainfall, which makes the hike safer and more pleasurable.
It is advisable to avoid during the months of April, May, and November, as the pathways become slippery due to heavy rainfall.

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar & Tanzania’s Beaches

The coast of Tanzania and the Zanzibar Archipelago are ideal destinations for a beach vacation after spending time on safari.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, which spans from June to October and December to February.
Why is it that? Daytime sunshine, crystal clear waters, and ideal beach conditions are all present.
The months of March through May should be avoided because of the heavy rains, humid weather, and choppy waves.

Best Time for Budget Travel in Tanzania

From March to May and November, which is considered to be the low season, is the best time to visit.
Why is it that? There would be less tourists, which will result in lower pricing for accommodations and discounts on safaris and beach resorts.
On the downside, rain can make it more difficult to observe wildlife, and during the prolonged rains, several hotels may close their doors.

Tanzania Weather & Climate Overview

When Should You Visit Tanzania?

When it comes to safaris and the Great Migration, there is a peak in wildlife viewing around the months of June to October.
Travel during the rainy season (March to May and November) to receive discounts, especially for those who are on a budget.
In order to experience favorable weather conditions for trekking Kilimanjaro, it is recommended to travel during the months of January to March or June to October.
Zanzibar is a paradise for beach lovers in the months of June through October and December through February.

In Tanzania, you can have an unforgettable experience at any time of the year, regardless of the season.

📅 Ready to Plan Your Tanzania Adventure?

Tailor-made safari packages in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro hikes, and beach getaways in Zanzibar are all available from our company. For seamless bookings, contact your African Safari Kenya Specialist