When to travel to Tanzania
Do you dream of going to Tanzania for an adventure safari or a trek in the heart of the wilderness? Choosing the ideal period for your trip is essential if you are to make the most of it.
Off Road presents the different seasons and climates in Tanzania, the best times to go depending on your preferences, and practical advice for planning your trip. Whether you want to observe the exceptional wildlife, climb Kilimanjaro or explore the natural wonders of this fascinating country, follow our guide to find out when to go to Tanzania.
The dry season, which runs from June to October, is considered the best time to go to Tanzania. The days are sunny, the temperatures are pleasant and the wildlife is easy to spot. It hardly ever rains and temperatures are pleasant.
Summer arrives in November, when it starts to get very hot and there may be a few showers, especially at the end of the day. These showers are generally short-lived and the colours are often superb. This is a less busy period, but one that also offers great travel opportunities at more affordable rates.
The hot season runs from December to February, and it can get very hot! This is the period when you can witness the great wildebeest and zebra migration, which is concentrated in the south of the Serengeti National Park.
The main rainy season lasts from March to May, when the rains can be heavy and can disrupt certain activities. However, nature is lush, the scenery is incredible, and it is an ideal time for birdwatchers to observe migratory birds.
It’s important to note that the climate in Tanzania can vary from region to region. The coastal areas and islands generally have a more humid climate, while the high plateaux have cooler temperatures. Take these factors into account when choosing the ideal period for your trip to Tanzania.
During the high season (July-August), national parks such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro are very busy. It is therefore important to book your accommodation and safaris in advance to guarantee your place.
During the low season (mid-March to the end of May) you’ll see fewer tourists in the national parks and at the main attractions. However, bear in mind that some parks may be closed during this period due to weather conditions.
The best times to see wildlife are generally early in the morning and late in the afternoon. During these times, the light is soft, temperatures are cooler and the animals are more active. Morning safaris often offer the best opportunities for sightings.
Define your travel budget and look at the prices of flights, accommodation and activities during the periods that interest you. Low season can offer more affordable rates, while high season can guarantee a better safari experience.
To choose the ideal time to go to Tanzania, it’s important to take into account the different seasons, the climate, tourist numbers and your personal preferences. High season tourism offers better weather conditions and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, but can be more expensive and crowded. The low season offers more affordable rates and lush green landscapes, but you’ll need to be prepared for possible downpours.
Whether you choose high or low season, you’ll have an unforgettable time in Tanzania. Make sure you take the specifics of each region into account when planning your activities, whether it’s a safari in the Serengeti, climbing Kilimanjaro or exploring the beaches of Zanzibar.
