Tanzania’s Leading Tour Operator
WHEN TO VISIT TANZANIA?
Tanzania can be visited year-round, but weather conditions differ significantly between the long rainy season and the rest of the year. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right time — and the right regions — for your safari, Kilimanjaro climb or beach holiday.
Tanzania Weather Overview
Tanzania’s climate varies by region and altitude:
​
-
Coastal areas & islands (Zanzibar, Mafia, Pemba): warm, humid, tropical
-
Northern Tanzania & highlands: cooler due to altitude
-
Southern parks: warmer and drier, but more affected by rains
Average daytime temperatures range between 22°C and 31°C (72–88°F).
Night temperatures can drop to 10°C–22°C (50–72°F), especially in the highlands.
Monthly Temperatures & Rainfall (Average)
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
18 (64)
26 (79)
32 (90)
55
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
18 (64)
27 (81)
33 (91)
45
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
19 (66)
26 (79)
32 (90)
120
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
19 (66)
25 (77)
30 (86)
250
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
18 (64)
24 (75)
29 (84)
180
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
16 (61)
23 (73)
28 (82)
30
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
15 (59)
22 (72)
27 (81)
20
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
15 (59)
23 (73)
28 (82)
25
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
16 (61)
24 (75)
29 (84)
20
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
18 (64)
25 (77)
30 (86)
40
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
16 (66)
26 (79)
31 (88)
90
Minimum °C (°F):
Average °C (°F):
Maximum °C (°F):
Rainfall (mm):
18 (64)
26 (79)
32 (90)
75
The Long Rainy Season: March – April – May
What to Expect
March, April and May form Tanzania’s long rainy season. This is the wettest period of the year, with April being the rainiest month.
-
Rain usually falls in the afternoon, evening or overnight
-
Roads can become muddy, especially in remote areas
-
Some lodges close temporarily
-
Wildlife spreads out due to abundant water
Parks Best Avoided in These Months
-
Nyerere (Selous) National Park
-
Ruaha National Park
-
Mikumi National Park
-
Udzungwa Mountains
These parks rely heavily on dirt roads, which can become difficult or inaccessible.
Parks Still Possible with Careful Planning
-
Serengeti National Park
-
Ngorongoro Crater
-
Tarangire National Park
-
Lake Manyara
-
Arusha National Park
This period is best suited for experienced travelers who value lower prices and fewer crowds over optimal road conditions.
The Drier Months: June – February (Except November)
June – October: Main Dry Season
This is the most popular and reliable travel period.
-
Little to no rainfall
-
Excellent wildlife visibility
-
Cooler temperatures
-
Best conditions for safaris and Kilimanjaro climbs
January – February: Short Dry Season
A warm, pleasant period between rains.
-
Green landscapes
-
Wildebeest calving season in southern Serengeti
-
Excellent birdlife
-
Fewer visitors than peak season
November: Short Rains
November brings short, scattered showers, usually brief and local.
-
Travel remains very possible
-
Nature turns green again
-
Good value for money
-
Roads generally remain accessible
This month is often underestimated and can be a great choice for flexible travelers.
​
How Weather Affects Wildlife
Rainfall strongly influences animal movement:
​
-
Wet months: animals disperse widely due to abundant water
-
Dry months: wildlife concentrates around rivers and waterholes, improving visibility
​
Birdwatching is best during the rainy and green seasons when migratory species arrive.
​
Our Recommendation
There is no single “best” time to visit Tanzania — but there is a best time for your itinerary.
​
At Genes Adventures, we plan journeys based on:
​
-
Seasonal weather patterns
-
Park accessibility
-
Wildlife movements
-
Your travel style and priorities
-
Safety
​
Explore our detailed itineraries or contact us for personal advice on the best time to visit Tanzania.
​