When is the best time to visit Tanzania?

The best time to visit Tanzania depends on what wildlife you’d like to spot. The country’s seasons and wildlife numbers are dictated by the rain, so you’ll have a slightly different experience depending on when you choose to visit.

Tanzania’s headline attraction is the Great Migration, which occurs year-round across Serengeti. Many people flock here between July and September for a chance to witness huge herds of wildebeest and zebra crossing the Mara River — panic ensues as they try to avoid the jaws of crocodiles and other predators waiting to pounce. You’ll see lots of vehicles in the park at this time of year, though.

Tanzania’s ‘green season, between November and March, is much quieter. While there’s a chance of rain showers, it’s a fantastic time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive in their thousands. You’ll also see Great Migration herds with their newly born calves.

The only time we tend to avoid Tanzania is between April and May when heavy rains can disrupt wildlife viewing.

The best time to visit Tanzania for a safari is June-August. It’s comfortably cool, plus two million animals make the precarious Mara River crossing in June and July. Outside these months, you can track the migration elsewhere in the Serengeti. The heaviest rains fall in March-early May, which freshen up the landscape but can cause travel disruption.

Month-by-month guide for traveling in Tanzania

January and February capture Tanzania swathed in greenery with migratory birds flitting amongst foliage and the calving season in full swing. Being low season, it’s also less crowded.
Generally, there is only one period to avoid– the rainy months of March, April, and May. Kilimanjaro climbs are risky, the wildlife spreads out and beach holidays in Zanzibar will be soggy; afternoon downpours are heavier along the coast and islands. Some lodges in the lesser-visited south and west will also close during this period. You can get some excellent rates, however, so if you are on a tight budget this may be the best time to visit Tanzania.
July and August are peak months – with the Great Migration, the dry season, milder temperatures, and the school holidays melding in a maelstrom of safari vehicles. Prices are also at their highest. If you are able to travel outside of the holiday period, the river crossing is still taking place – but you won’t be jostling for space. If you must travel during peak months, consider visiting the south. This is still relatively unexplored and never overcrowded with visitors.
Although May through to August will be warm during the day, nights are cold. Bring insulating layers for early morning game drives and evening sundowners. Open safari vehicles are teeth-chatteringly cold.
The Ngorongoro Crater is also jammed as it’s a relatively restricted area; again, traveling either side of the peak season, June or September, means your view will be less restricted by cars. Most species in Ngorongoro don’t migrate – so you’ll still see just as much wildlife out of peak season.
September and October are the best months to climb Kilimanjaro, thanks to moderate temperatures, lower rainfall, and less cloud cover – which means the mountain can get crowded, particularly in September. Book your trip well in advance – and remember, rain can fall at any time and it’s always icy cold at the top.
Climbing is most dangerous during the rainy season due to slippery conditions and poor visibility. Tours still run – but you’re the best at booking a less strenuous route and you’ll be at the mercy of the weather. Waterproof packs are essential.
Kilimanjaro is chilly year-round – but in June-August, it’s at its most freezing. Pack appropriately, and don’t underestimate the cold; remember – you’ll be camping.
A beautiful way to experience Kilimanjaro’s summit is during a full moon. As well as lighting your way in the dark African night, the moon reflects off the glaciers; fabulous. But again – this brings more climbers.
November and December bring short rains. These shouldn’t disrupt travel – other than attracting a few more mosquitoes – but will freshen up the dusty landscape, creating lovely scenes, particularly for photographers.
For marine life, the best time to go to Tanzania is November to March, when snorkellers and divers stand the best chance of encountering whale sharks, and April to September when green turtles hatch – particularly along the shores of the Mafia Archipelago.