Like many other travelers, you want to have the best experience on your vacation. Great timing really does make a difference. So you probably have this question on your mind: when is the best time to visit Tanzania? The honest answer is that the best time largely depends on what you want to see and how you want your visit to be.
Throughout the year you can visit Tanzania’s attractions, but it is the dry season from June to October that is regarded by many as the best time to visit Tanzania. However, there are other factors you should consider, like the activities you have planned, crowds, seasonal costs, and prices.
Why June to October is the best time to visit Tanzania
First of all, the skies are clear and most days are sunny. That gives you perfect weather for your stay.
Secondly, animals are much easier to spot. With water shortages, the vegetation weakens, which improves visibility. Animals will be concentrated around water sources, so you do not have to search far.
Furthermore, this period covers two major highlights of the great migration. You can witness both the Grumeti river crossing and the Mara river crossing. These are spectacular events that many travelers dream of seeing.
Easy mobility is another benefit. Moving around is much easier when the ground is dry, unlike the rainy season when tracks become muddy and difficult to navigate.
Moreover, it is the perfect time to hike Kilimanjaro. The weather is favorable, and your chances of reaching the summit are much higher compared to the rainy season.
It is also easier to do group tours, join group activities, and enjoy larger parties because many other travelers are around.
Finally, there are plenty more options for activities to do during the dry season. Tour operators offer their full range of services, and nothing is limited by weather conditions.
A few considerations against this period
Prices are high during this peak season. Accommodation and tours cost more than at other times of the year.
There are many travelers, so if your preference is a quiet and private trip, this might not be ideal for you.
The roads can be very dusty. You should be prepared for dust on safari vehicles and your clothing.
Other favorable times to visit Tanzania
November
It is expected to be dry and sunny with fewer travelers, so this is a great time for a visit. There is a small chance of short rains, which are more expected in December and January. The crowds have thinned out after the peak season, so you will have a more peaceful experience.
December
The great wildebeest migration herds are back in the Serengeti. The weather will be a mix of sunny days and short rain showers, which actually helps reduce the dust from the dry season. The scenery starts to get greener and more beautiful. There is also a small peak season around the festival season, so book ahead if you plan to travel during the holidays.
January to February
The great wildebeest migration calving season is yet another highlight of the migration. You can witness about half a million newborns during this period. This is also an excellent time for predator action since lions, leopards, and hyenas follow the herds closely. The scenery is green and beautiful, making for excellent photographs.
March
This is a grey time. It is not clear if it will remain dry or if the rainy season will begin. This is almost the end of the wildebeest calving season. Some years are dry, and some years the rains come early. It is a bit of a gamble.
April to May
This is probably the least favorable time to visit Tanzania because it is expected to be the rainy season. It can be very difficult to move around or enjoy the sun. Roads become muddy, and some tracks may be impassable.
However, there are some advantages to this period. You will find much lower rates on accommodation and tours. The scenery is green and beautiful, with flowers blooming everywhere. Migratory birds are present, so bird watching is at its absolute best. And there are very few travelers since this is low season. If you do not mind some rain and want to save money, this could still work for you.
