Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Understanding these patterns is crucial for planning your visit to maximize wildlife viewing, weather conditions, and overall experience.

The dry season is considered the best time for most activities in Tanzania. Clear skies, minimal rainfall, and excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. This is peak tourist season with higher prices but optimal conditions.

The wet season offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. It's divided into short rains (November-December) and long rains (March-May). Great for bird watching and seeing newborn animals.

The Great Migration follows a predictable annual cycle. January-March: Calving season in southern Serengeti. April-May: Moving north. June-July: River crossings. August-October: Northern Serengeti and Masai Mara.

Best climbing months are January-March and June-October when weather is most stable. Avoid April-May (long rains) and November (short rains) for optimal summit success rates.

Zanzibar is great year-round for beaches. Best conditions: June-September (dry, less humid) and December-February (hot, dry). March-May can be rainy but still enjoyable with fewer crowds.