Best Time to Visit Tanzania
A Month-by-Month Guide to Safaris, Kilimanjaro Treks, Beaches, and Cultural
Experiences
Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your
interests—whether it’s watching wildlife in Serengeti, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, relaxing in Zanzibar, or experiencing vibrant cultural festivals. This guide will help
you choose the perfect time based on weather, crowd levels, and travel goals. Wildlife Safaris (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Nyerere)
June to October – Peak Safari Season
Dry season across all parks; wildlife gathers near rivers and waterholes. Wildebeest migration reaches Western Serengeti in June and Northern Serengeti from
July to September. Ngorongoro Crater offers clear views and easy wildlife spotting. Tarangire is excellent for elephant herds. This is the most popular and expensive time to travel; accommodations fill up early. November to May – Green Season
January to March is calving season in Southern Serengeti (Ndutu). April and May bring long rains, greener landscapes, and fewer tourists. Excellent birdwatching as migratory species arrive. Lower lodge rates and quieter parks make it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Some camps close from April to May due to rain. Kilimanjaro Trekking
January to March and June to October – Best Climbing Conditions
January to March offers milder temperatures and fewer climbers. June to October is cooler and clearer; most popular with trekkers. Avoid April, May, and November due to heavy or short rains, which can make trails
slippery and obscure summit views. Zanzibar Beach Holidays
June to October – Ideal Beach Season
Sunny skies, calm seas, and cooling breezes.

Excellent for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. High season with increased demand for hotels and tours. December to February – Hot and Dry
Warm weather with occasional brief showers. Great for a post-safari beach extension. March to May – Long Rains
Frequent showers; some resorts close or reduce services. Fewer tourists and significantly lower prices. Best for travelers looking for peace and solitude. November – Short Rains
Light, scattered showers. Travel is still enjoyable and many accommodations remain open. Cultural Events and Festivals
Tanzania’s cultural calendar features unique festivals and national holidays that offer
meaningful local experiences:
February: Sauti za Busara (Zanzibar) – East Africa’s biggest music and arts festival. July: Mwaka Kogwa (Zanzibar) – Shirazi New Year celebrations in Makunduchi
village. October/November: Bagamoyo Arts Festival – Mainland Tanzania’s largest arts event. December 9: Independence Day – Patriotic events across the country. Plan well in advance for festivals, as they can attract high visitor numbers and limited
availability in hotels. Summary: Best Times by Activity
Activity Recommended Travel Time
Wildlife Safaris June – October
Calving in Southern Serengeti January – March
Great Migration Crossings July – September
Birdwatching November – April
Kilimanjaro Trekking January – March / June – October
Zanzibar Beach Holidays June – October / December – February
Cultural Festivals February, July, October – November

Travel Planning Tips
The dry season (June to October) offers the best wildlife viewing and trekking
weather but is also the busiest and most expensive period. The green season (November to May) is less crowded, ideal for photographers and
birders, and more budget-friendly, though it includes rainy months. Zanzibar is best from June to October and December to February, while March to
May is quieter but wetter. For custom itinerary planning, feel free to reach out:
Thrive Adventures
Email: info@thrive-adventures.com
Phone: +255 763 453 102