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.