Quick answer (TL;DR)
For classic wildlife viewing, the long dry season June–October is best across Tanzania. It’s also when the Serengeti’s Mara River crossings most often happen (late July–September). For wildebeest calving, aim for January–February around Ndutu and the southern Serengeti. Zanzibar beaches are at their best June–October and December–February, while Kilimanjaro climbs are most reliable December–mid-March and late June–October. Expect short rains in Nov–Dec and long rains in Mar–May.
How Tanzania’s seasons work (and why it varies)
Tanzania doesn’t follow a simple “summer/winter” pattern. Instead, think in four repeatable windows: the long dry season (June–October), the short rains (November–December), a brief short dry (January–February), and the long rains (March–May). That rhythm drives wildlife movement, beach conditions, and ultimately the best time to visit Tanzania.
Variation comes from two forces: altitude and the Indian Ocean trade winds. Coastal and island areas—Zanzibar, Pemba, Mafia—are warm and humid year-round, with passing showers even in “dry” months. Inland, nights are noticeably cooler, especially on the Serengeti highlands, the Ngorongoro rim, and the slopes of Kilimanjaro. Ocean winds shift through the year: the Kaskazi (northeasterly) influences roughly December–March, bringing warmer, lighter conditions; the Kusi (southeasterly) dominates June–October, ushering in cooler, drier air and steadier seas.
Rain itself also behaves differently across regions. The long rains are heaviest along the coast and in some southern parks, while the northern circuit often stays travelable with well-drained soils and good road networks. Even within a park, localized showers can green one valley while another remains dry—one reason sightings and trail conditions can differ just a few kilometers apart.
Planning takeaway: treat months as windows, not exact dates. Dry seasons thin vegetation and concentrate wildlife at rivers and pans; short rains refresh landscapes without shutting down travel. On the coast, June–October and December–February bring the clearest beach weather, while inland those same months deliver the most consistent game viewing and climbing conditions.
Month-by-month planner
Each month below includes weather feel, safari highlights, crowd/price feel, and where to go.
February
Weather
Often the steadiest month of the short-dry spell inland, with warm days and pleasantly cool mornings on the highlands. The coast and islands remain hot and beachy. Afternoon showers are possible but typically brief outside of localized storms.
Safari highlights
Peak calving brings tens of thousands of newborn wildebeest and attendant predator action. Cheetah sightings are superb on the short-grass plains. Raptor numbers swell, and many species display. Waterholes start to matter more in drier belts, concentrating game for easier viewing.
Crowds & costs
This is a headline month for the south Serengeti, so it’s popular and priced accordingly. Book early for in-demand camps near the plains. Elsewhere, lodges offer attractive shoulder specials, particularly away from Ndutu.
Where to go
Stay on/near the Ndutu and SE Serengeti plains for calving, with day trips to Naabi/Ngorongoro. For mixed habitats and flamingos, consider Lake Manyara. Zanzibar is still excellent for beach time and spice tours.
March
Weather
The long rains begin, starting patchily and building through the month. Expect more cloud, lush growth, and some muddy tracks. Temperatures remain warm; higher altitudes can feel chilly when wet and windy, so waterproof layers help on drives and walks.
Safari highlights
Green season transforms the plains; sightings become more about patience and tracking than sheer visibility. Photographers love saturated colours, dramatic storm light, and dust-free horizons. Early March can still deliver good game before heavier showers push herds onward.
Crowds & costs
Visitor numbers drop and deals improve. Some camps reduce capacity or pause refurbishments, while others remain open and quiet. If you don’t mind showers, you’ll enjoy unhurried sightings and flexible daily plans.
Where to go
Pick resilient areas on the central/northern Serengeti where roads hold up better, and mix in cultural or hiking days near Arusha/Ngorongoro. If climbing Kilimanjaro, early March may still fit a dry-window attempt.
April
Weather
Usually the wettest month countrywide. Expect sustained rainfall, swollen rivers, and occasional track closures. Temperatures are warm and humidity high at the coast; inland highs are tempered by cloud and rain. Plan for flexible timings and occasional indoor afternoons.
Safari highlights
Emerald landscapes, full waterholes, and prolific birdlife define April. Big cats still hunt, but taller grass can make them harder to spot. This is a month for slow safaris, patience, and rewarding photographic light between showers.
Crowds & costs
The quietest period of the year. Many lodges close, but those that stay open tempt with green-season rates. You’ll get attentive guiding and peaceful sightings when weather cooperates.
Where to go
Choose operations that stay open in Serengeti/Ngorongoro with experienced wet-season drivers. Consider lodge-based experiences and short flights to avoid long, muddy drives. Islands see heavier rain—check that Zanzibar properties are operating to the standard you expect.
May
Weather
Rains continue early, then ease toward month-end. Grass is tall, pans are full, and temperatures are mild inland. On the coast, humidity lingers, but sunny spells increase late in the month as winds and patterns shift.
Safari highlights
Fewer vehicles mean unpressured sightings; predators remain active, and birds dazzle. Late May can bring a perceptible lift in visibility as showers back off. Western Serengeti begins to stir as the migration edges toward the Grumeti/Western Corridor.
Crowds & costs
Still low, with value-rich packages as camps reopen. Late-month trips can feel like a secret: better weather, open camps, and prices below peak. Flight schedules begin ramping up for high season.
Where to go
Target the central/western Serengeti as herds drift, keeping an eye on the Western Corridor. In the south, early openings in Ruaha or Nyerere/Selous can be magical once tracks dry. Zanzibar improves late month.
June
Weather
The long dry season starts, with crisp mornings inland and clear, sunny days. Rain becomes unusual on the mainland and islands. Visibility improves quickly as grasses flatten and dust levels remain moderate early in the season.
Safari highlights
Game concentrates around shrinking water sources; predators patrol open plains. The Western Corridor often features dramatic crossings of smaller channels and Grumeti gatherings. Walking conditions improve in southern parks, and skies are beautifully blue for long-lens photography.
Crowds & costs
High season begins and rates rise, especially in migration-hot spots. Booking ahead pays dividends for prime river-adjacent locations. Early June still offers a touch more availability than July–August.
Where to go
Split time between Western/Central Serengeti and Tarangire as elephants return to the river. For big, remote country, add Ruaha. Beach days on Zanzibar are glorious, and Kilimanjaro’s dry window opens.
July
Weather
Dry, sunny, and cool in the mornings/evenings—classic safari conditions. Inland humidity is low; afternoons are warm but rarely oppressive. Coastal trade winds keep Zanzibar pleasant and lively for watersports.
Safari highlights
Migration herds pack the north and central Serengeti, with first Mara River crossings sometimes occurring late month depending on rains. Tarangire surges with elephants and predator activity. Southern parks offer clear walking and boating where levels allow.
Crowds & costs
Peak season. Expect popular areas to be busy and premium rooms to be fully committed. Private conservancies and remote camps help reclaim solitude; longer stays improve your odds for crossings.
Where to go
Anchor in the Northern Serengeti for crossings potential and add time in Tarangire. For fewer vehicles, blend in Ruaha or Nyerere. Zanzibar is outstanding for beach time and kitesurfing on the east coast.
August
Weather
Mid-dry-season perfection inland: clear skies, long views, cool mornings, warm afternoons. Coastal winds peak, moderating heat and powering excellent kitesurfing. Occasional dust develops on busy tracks—scarfs or buffs help on open vehicles.
Safari highlights
Peak Mara River crossings in the Northern Serengeti create high drama. Predators are highly visible in short grass. Tarangire is at its elephant best, and boating in Nyerere can be superb as channels concentrate hippos, crocs, and birds.
Crowds & costs
Among the year’s busiest months with premium pricing. Secure riverside rooms and specialist guides far in advance. Consider splitting time between a high-demand area and a quieter park to balance spectacle with serenity.
Where to go
Prioritize the Northern Serengeti with river proximity. Pair with Tarangire or Ruaha for varied habitats and fewer vehicles. On the coast, Zanzibar is dry and breezy; divers and kiters find excellent conditions.
September
Weather
Dry continues, with slightly warmer afternoons and cool nights at altitude. Skies stay clear, and visibility is superb. Late-month thunderheads sometimes tease the horizon, but meaningful rain is uncommon inland.
Safari highlights
Crossings often continue; cats capitalize on exposed plains. Southern and western parks reach late-dry intensity as wildlife crowds rivers and springs. Chimp trekking in Mahale pairs beautifully with open savanna viewing.
Crowds & costs
Still high early month; some easing appears late September. If you missed August, you can still catch crossings and classic dry-season game without quite the same squeeze on availability.
Where to go
Stay Northern Serengeti for the river, then head south to Ruaha or Nyerere for raw, quiet big-game country. Zanzibar remains prime for beaches and diving before the short-rains build.
October
Weather
End of the long dry. Hotter afternoons inland; a few early short-rains showers may arrive late month, settling dust. Coastal humidity climbs slightly, but breezes keep beaches comfortable.
Safari highlights
Game is still tightly concentrated along rivers and pans. The season for whale sharks around Mafia Island begins, with plankton drawing gentle giants close to shore. In the far north, crossings can still occur in early October if rains are late.
Crowds & costs
High early month with gradual softening later, especially if showers start. Last-minute space sometimes appears as visitors pivot dates; shoulder deals emerge after mid-October.
Where to go
Combine Northern Serengeti (early month) with Ruaha/Nyerere for intense predator action in thinning bush. Add Mafia Island for whale sharks and quieter beaches than Zanzibar.
November
Weather
The short rains return—often afternoon or night showers with sunny breaks. Inland, grass greens quickly; temperatures are warm without the heaviest humidity of April/May. Coastal squalls roll through, but beach hours remain very doable.
Safari highlights
A brilliant month for birding as Palearctic migrants arrive. Calves grow fast on fresh grazing; predators adapt to taller cover. Value-seekers enjoy long, unhurried sightings with fewer vehicles jostling for position.
Crowds & costs
Crowds dip and prices ease markedly. You’ll find generous specials and excellent guide availability. Expect a flexible mindset: start early, dodge showers, and win long, rewarding game-drive windows.
Where to go
Try Central/Northern Serengeti with resident cats and returning herds moving south. Tarangire quiets but still delivers elephants in riverine pockets. Zanzibar mixes sunshine with showers; it’s good value with many hotels open.
December
Weather
Short rains often taper mid-month, yielding sunnier holiday weeks. Inland mornings are crisp at altitude; afternoons warm pleasantly. The coast and islands are lively and hot, with reliable beach days and the occasional brief downpour.
Safari highlights
Migration herds trend south with green-up, setting the stage for calving. Predator viewing remains strong around the movement corridors. Kilimanjaro’s dry window reopens, offering clearer summit chances and panoramic views above the clouds.
Crowds & costs
Festive season pushes demand and rates up sharply from mid-December. Book flights and marquee camps early, or arrive the first week of the month for softer pricing and plenty of sunshine.
Where to go
Target Southern Serengeti/Ngorongoro fringes as herds descend. Add Zanzibar or Pemba for celebratory beach time, or start a Kilimanjaro ascent on a clear, dry spell. It’s a dynamic, high-energy month with classic safari-plus-beach appeal.
Best time by goal
The Great Migration (where to be, when)
- Jan–Mar: Southern Serengeti & Ndutu plains for calving (thousands of births attract lions, cheetahs, hyenas).
- Jun–Jul: Western Corridor (watch for Grumeti crossings and big herds moving north).
- Aug–Sep (sometimes into Oct): Northern Serengeti for Mara River crossings—the most dramatic scenes of the year.
- Nov–Dec: Herds head south with the short rains.
Tip: Crossings are never guaranteed; base near the river and allow 3–4 nights to improve odds.
Kilimanjaro climbing windows
The most reliable weather windows for summit bids are December–mid-March and late June–October. Expect clearer skies, less rainfall, and steadier underfoot conditions—though mountains are always unpredictable. Popular routes (Lemosho, Machame) book out early for these periods.
Zanzibar, Pemba & Mafia (beaches, diving & whale sharks)
Zanzibar
Zanzibar delivers classic Indian Ocean days: bright sun, palm-backed beaches and calm seas. The driest, clearest windows are June–October and December–February, ideal for easy beach time and relaxed snorkeling.
Choose the east coast for kitesurfing July–September and postcard sandbars; head north or west for deeper water at all tides. Divers target Mnemba Atoll for gentle reefs, while Stone Town adds culture, spice markets and lively evenings.
Pemba
Pemba is Zanzibar’s wild, hilly sister—quiet, green and deeply tidal. Its channels and walls offer superb drift diving with pelagic sightings and healthy coral, best enjoyed in June–October and January–February when seas are settled and visibility rises.
Expect boutique lodges, mangrove creeks and empty beaches rather than nightlife. Currents can be strong, so operators plan dives around tides; experienced divers thrive, while beginners still find sheltered sites inside the reef.
Mafia Island
Mafia Island is mellow and marine-park protected, with shallow lagoons and easy, unhurried diving. The headline draw is swimming with whale sharks from October to February (often into March), when plankton blooms bring gentle giants close to shore.
Expect rustic charm, dhow trips and excellent snorkeling in Chole Bay. Seas are calm November–February. Base near Kilindoni for short runs to shark hotspots, and plan multiple outings to improve your chances.
Where it changes by region
Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Manyara)
- Serengeti/Ngorongoro: Year-round, with best visibility Jun–Oct; calving Jan–Feb in the south/SE Serengeti; river crossings Aug–Sep in the north.
- Tarangire: Outstanding Jul–Oct when elephants and other game mass along the Tarangire River; superb birding Nov–Apr.
Southern & Western (Ruaha, Nyerere/Selous, Katavi, Mahale)
Best game concentrations in the dry season (Jun–Oct/Nov) as vegetation thins and animals cluster at rivers and lakes; many camps reduce operations during the long-rains months. Mahale’s chimp trekking pairs beautifully with late dry-season Ruaha or Katavi.
Coast & Islands (Zanzibar, Pemba, Mafia)
June–Oct brings the coolest, driest beach weather; Dec–Feb is also sunny and lively. Apr–May long rains are the main period to avoid for beach-heavy itineraries.
2025 practicalities that affect “best time”
- Mandatory inbound travel insurance for Zanzibar: Since Oct 1, 2024, foreign non-residents entering Zanzibar must purchase an official policy (about US$44 for up to 92 days) via the government portal. This is separate from any general travel insurance you may carry.
- Weather anomalies: The 2023–24 El Niño brought severe rains and flooding across parts of Tanzania; while seasonal patterns have normalized, shoulder-season plans (Mar–May, Nov–Dec) merit flexible logistics.
- Health basics: Fewer mosquitoes in the long dry season, but repellent and long sleeves at dusk help year-round; consult your clinician about vaccines/antimalarials.
Shoulder-season sweet spots (save money, keep wildlife)
- Late May → early June: Green scenery meets clearing skies; many camps reopen with shoulder pricing.
- Late Oct → early Nov: End-dry wildlife plus better availability and occasional early showers that settle dust.
- Mid-Jan → early Feb (outside school holidays): Calving action with slightly softer rates than December.
(Exact value varies by camp and rain onset each year.)
Cost & crowd index by month (rule-of-thumb)
Low: Apr–May
Shoulder: Mar, early Jun, late Oct–Nov, mid-Jan–early Feb
High/Peak: Jul–Sep, late Jun, Dec (festive)
Prices and availability vary by park and camp—book early for Aug–Sep north Serengeti or popular Kili routes.
FAQs
What’s the single best month for safari?
For most first-timers, June–October combines dry weather with reliably concentrated wildlife. If your dream is calving, choose January–February in the south.
When are the Serengeti river crossings most likely?
Typically late July through September in the northern Serengeti along the Mara River, but timing shifts with rainfall—allow several days near the river.
Is April really a no-go?
It’s the wettest month and many lodges close, but some operations stay open with green-season rates. Be rain-flexible and check access roads.
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
Generally Dec–mid-Mar and late Jun–Oct for the driest trails and clearest skies.
When is birding at its best?
November–April, when Palearctic and intra-African migrants join resident species.
When can I see whale sharks?
Mafia Island has peak sightings from Oct–Feb (often through March).
Do I really need Zanzibar insurance?
Yes—mandatory for foreign non-residents since Oct 1, 2024; buy via the official portal before arrival.
