Summary
Rich biodiversity, alluring islands, vibrant markets, and hospitable locals – Tanzania presents a treasure trove of experiences awaiting exploration.
Stroll along cobblestone pathways on Zanzibar Island, observe an elephant framed against a baobab tree in Tarangire park, ascend rugged trails to engage with chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains park, and throughout, immerse yourself in the culture of the Tanzanian people.
No matter your aspirations, this guide will enable you to carefully consider the best times for your visit, featuring insights on a range of topics from the seasonal wildebeest migration to summiting Mt Kilimanjaro and experiencing local festivals.
June through September is the best time for wildlife-watching
June through September represents Tanzania’s cooler, dry season and peak tourist period. During this time, the wildebeest migrate northward towards the rich grasses of Kenya’s Masai Mara, and the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro remain free of mud. Meanwhile, Zanzibar’s beaches present a inviting escape. Overall, it is an exceptional time to travel, albeit accompanied by elevated prices and larger crowds.
In the months of July and August, as the dry spell continues, wildlife tends to congregate near diminishing water sources, enhancing visibility. Southern Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park and the western region’s Katavi teem with wildlife, showcasing massive hippo pods contending for limited mud wallows. In Gombe and Mahale Mountains parks, tracking chimpanzees becomes notably easier as they descend the hillsides.
This dry spell also presents optimum conditions for trekking on both Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru, as well as for hiking in the northeastern Usambara Mountains. Coastal temperatures and humidity tend to be milder, though island destinations may feel crowded yet delightful.
October to February is perfect for birding and fewer crowds
October heralds the onset of Tanzania’s shoulder season, marked by predominantly sunny and dry weather, making it an excellent opportunity for wildlife observation, tailored by significantly reduced crowd sizes in comparison to peak season. Parks like Tarangire, which excel during the late dry season, offer exceptional experiences. October also sees jacarandas bloom, particularly in the northern zones around Moshi and Arusha, and in the southwest around Mbeya; it’s a magnificent scene to stroll beneath their purple awnings amidst a carpet of lavender blossoms.
As November arrives, the short rains commence, heralding mango season with ripe fruit frequently spotted along the roadsides from late November onwards. Furthermore, this period marks the peak of birding season as the first migratory birds begin to arrive from the north.
During the holiday season encompassing Christmas and New Year’s—approximately from mid-December through the first week in January—costs soar temporarily; however, numerous lodges and camps present attractive shoulder-season rates before and after this peak period.
February usually witnesses Tanzania’s highest temperatures, particularly along the coast, but it also marks the apex for birding across the country; meanwhile, the southeastern Serengeti is abuzz with activity as the wildebeest calving season unfolds. Notably, February is ideal for observing orchids in Kitulo National Park, amidst the breathtaking highlands adorned with wildflowers.
For those in northern Tanzania, the warm, dry stretch between December and February provides excellent conditions for undertaking Kilimanjaro treks, while along the coast, the shoulder season is prime for witnessing whale sharks near Mafia Island.
March to May is the best time for green landscapes and lower prices
Mid to late March signifies the commencement of Tanzania’s principal rainy season, characterized by intense downpours that render roads and hiking trails muddy. Numerous lodges—particularly along the coast and in the southern and western safari circuits—close their operations, while others that remain offer considerable discounts.
Nevertheless, despite the rainfall, ample sunshine persists, and if your aim is to engage with Tanzania’s vibrant cultures and explore off the beaten path, this period can be remarkably advantageous. The nation’s landscapes become brilliantly green, and visitor numbers are at their lowest. Between late April—when the rains begin to diminish—and early June, the wildebeest embark on their lengthy trek northwestward from their calving grounds in the southeastern Serengeti, and brightly colored birds become increasingly visible, with males exhibiting their exquisite breeding plumage.
Anytime is festival time
Regardless of when you visit Tanzania, a festival or event is likely occurring somewhere within the country. Early February on Zanzibar features the Sauti za Busara festival, while late February in Moshi hosts the community-focused Kilimanjaro Marathon. Back on Zanzibar, anticipate the Zanzibar International Film Festival in late June and the Mwaka Kogwa festivities in late July. A key event around October or November on the mainland is the Bagamoyo Festival of Arts and Culture.
