When is the best time to visit Tanzania? As with most African countries with relatively favourable weather year-round, it's tricky to give one answer to this question. When it comes to Tanzania, different areas have different attractions at various times of the year.
We can assure you that there really is no right or wrong time to visit this well-loved country. Still, since you probably can't travel the whole year, there're a few things to consider to pick the best dates for your Tanzania safari tour.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania
The best time to visit Tanzania depends on what wildlife you'd like to spot. Some months are best for spotting the big 5 animals, while others are best for the wildebeest migration due to the weather. Others are perfect for birdwatching. It's thus essential to understand Tanzania's weather by month before you decide when to visit Tanzania.
Tanzania Weather by Month
January-February
This is when Tanzania is in its greenest period. The sprawling scenery in southern Serengeti is green and beautiful. You'll see plenty of wildlife, especially in the northern circuit parks. Bird watching is also at its best this season, and you'll enjoy watching hundreds of thousands of migratory birds. It's the low season during these two months, so Tanzania safari packages are lower, and the parks are less crowded.
March to May
This is the peak of the wet season and the least favourite time for a Tanzania safari, as it's the most challenging period to spot wildlife due to heavy rains. You can expect thundershowers in the afternoons, big storms at night, and plenty of grey days, especially in July. Tanzania safari prices are lower during this period.
June to August
This is the best time to witness the wildebeest migration in northern Serengeti. The rains have just ended, and the scenery is starting to turn from green to yellow. The animals are now more visible as they leisurely graze within the parks and around waterholes and rivers. For every safari enthusiast wondering what time of year is best to go to Tanzania, July is it. The month sees the safari season hit its peak. The weather is ideal for a game drive in the expansive parks of Tanzania. It's also the best time to combine a Kenya and Tanzania safari. You can catch the Great Wildebeest migration in the northern parts of the Serengeti and follow the beasts as they cross the treacherous waters of the Mara River into Kenya.
September to October
This period signals the end of the peak season, and the tourist crowds begin to dissipate. The big five enthusiasts may not enjoy Tanzania much during these months. However, September is a prime month for hikers wanting to climb Mount Meru or conquer Kilimanjaro. It's also the start of the fishing season in Tanzania's great lake regions.
November to December
November features short rains but is still a great time to visit the northern parks of Tanzania, which generally have vast herds of wildlife year-round. December is the perfect month for birdwatching in the Nyerere and Tarangire National Parks.
When is the Best Time to Go to Zanzibar?
If you're looking for a tropical beach holiday in Tanzania instead of taking a safari, then Zanzibar is your best time. Zanzibar is lauded as a top destination that you must visit once in your lifetime, and for a good reason.
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, from July to September. The powder-soft sand beaches and azure waters are just perfect during this period. It's the perfect time to spend long days relaxing in the sun, exploring the beautiful sights of 'Spice Island' and catching glorious sunsets.
Ready to Start Planning your Tanzania Safari Tour?
There you have it. A comprehensive description of the best time to visit Tanzania and Zanzibar. We hope this information lets you know what time of year is best to go to Tanzania.
Ready to book your Tanzania safari holiday? Get in touch with one of our Africa safari experts via the form below to help tailor-make a trip to Tanzania that's right for you.