When to Visit Tanzania - Best Time to Visit Tanzania

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TANZANIA

Tanzania is the land of safaris and best known for its incredible Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, there really is no better place to see game in Africa. Game viewing, like most safari destinations, is undoubtedly better in the dry season but there are wonderful attractions all year round and with a long coastline along Africa’s Eastside, you’ll have access to some beautiful beaches where you will get to enjoy soft white sand and bright blue waters; a true piece of African paradise. For game spotting and safaris, generally speaking, if you are travelling between June and October, the Southern and Western circuit parks are the best places to visit; whilst travelling outside of those months will take you to the Northern circuit parks.

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE

This United Republic is a vast country located along Africa’s East Coast, bordering Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. Tanzania is divided into a number of key regions and whilst the Southern and coastal areas have a tropical climate, the Northern region is cool and temperate.

Over 50% of the country is covered by savannah and bush whilst the remaining land is covered by semi-arid desert. If your travelling to Tanzania, it’s important to bear in mind the different regions and climate zones as well as understanding the two key seasons (wet and dry).

DRY SEASON: JUNE TO OCTOBER

The months of June to October are Tanzania’s official dry season. This is the best time for game safaris and because there is little rain, humidity will be at its lowest making travel much more comfortable plus there will be fewer mosquitos about too! Some key highlights during Tanzania’s dry season include the Ngorongoro Crater and the central/northern Serengeti area.

Dry season is certainly the most popular time to travel for most safari goers but even during the busy season, parks rarely ever feel crowded so this really is a great time to visit (apart from the Serengeti during June and July when Wildebeest Migration viewings are best).

What to pack: Mornings and nights can be chilly so be sure to pack warm clothing as well as summer clothing.

WET SEASON: NOVEMBER TO MAY

Whilst the dry season is popular for game viewing and the Wildebeest Migration, the months of November to May (the wet season) also has its own unique draws which could make you consider your travel options.

The months of January and February are calving time in the South and this is also the perfect season to watch predators in action! Additionally, the scenery will be stunning with lush greenery and migratory birds will also be easy to spot during this time. Some things to bear in mind are the heat and humidity, which may be uncomfortable for young children or the elderly – and you will be at higher risk of getting bitten by mosquitoes.

What to pack: Pack for a tropical climate – a good mix of cool clothing and waterproofs will be important and good quality mosquito repellent with DEET or Picaridin is essential.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rachel

The Best Time to Visit Tanzania

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TANZANIA

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE

DRY SEASON: JUNE TO OCTOBER

WET SEASON: NOVEMBER TO MAY

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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