Best Time to Visit Tanzania with Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris
Tanzania is a land of breathtaking landscapes, world-famous safaris, and pristine beaches. Whether you’re dreaming of a Serengeti safari, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on the Zanzibar coast, knowing the best time to visit Tanzania is key to planning the perfect trip. At Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris, we offer tailor-made Tanzania experiences to match the season, your interests, and your budget. Here’s a detailed look at when to go to Tanzania based on weather, wildlife, and major travel highlights.
Understanding Tanzania's Seasons
Tanzania has two main seasons:
Dry Season: June to October – best for safaris and trekking
Wet Season: November to May – ideal for fewer crowds, lush scenery, and birdwatching
Tanzania experiences:
Long rains: March to May
Short rains: November to early December
Best Time for a Safari in Tanzania
June to October – Peak Wildlife Viewing
This is the dry season, and the best time to visit Tanzania for safaris. The weather is clear, wildlife is easier to spot, and the Great Migration crosses the northern Serengeti into Kenya around July–August.
Top Parks to Visit:
Serengeti National Park (July–October: river crossings)
Ngorongoro Crater
Tarangire National Park (August–September: elephant gathering)
Ruaha & Selous/Nyerere National Parks
✅ Perfect for: First-time safari-goers, photographers, luxury safari seekers
November to March – Green Season & Calving Safari
Though there’s some rain, this period is lush, vibrant, and filled with life. It’s especially ideal from December to March, when the Great Migration herds are calving in the Southern Serengeti.
Highlights:
February: Wildebeest calving season – expect predator action
December: Excellent for birdwatching and safari/beach combos
March: Lush landscapes and fewer tourists
✅ Perfect for: Photographers, seasoned safari travelers, value seekers
April to May – Long Rains (Low Season)
This is the wettest time of year, and many lodges may close, especially in remote areas. However, it’s a budget-friendly time to travel, with stunning green scenery and few tourists.
Best Options:
Ngorongoro Crater remains accessible
Northern Circuit parks with all-weather roads
Zanzibar for cultural tours and spice farms
✅ Ideal for: Budget travelers, off-the-beaten-path adventures, birders
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar & Tanzania's Coast
June to October: Dry, breezy weather – perfect for beach holidays
December to February: Hot, sunny, festive – great for diving/snorkeling
March to May: Rainy, but good deals on beach resorts
🏖️ Combine a Serengeti safari with Zanzibar from July–September for the ultimate Tanzania experience.
Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
January to March: Quieter trails, occasional snow at the summit
June to October: Most popular time with clear skies and good weather
Avoid: April and May (wet, slippery conditions)
Pro Tip: Book early for August and September climbs—spots fill fast.
Month-by-Month Travel Highlights in Tanzania
| Month | Highlights |
|---|---|
| January | Kilimanjaro climbs, safari/beach combo |
| February | Wildebeest calving in Southern Serengeti |
| March | Lush landscapes, fewer tourists |
| April | Long rains, green scenery, low crowds |
| May | Budget safaris, Ngorongoro still accessible |
| June | Start of dry season, great for safaris |
| July | Great Migration river crossings begin |
| August | Peak safari season, best for Kilimanjaro |
| September | Ideal time for safari & Zanzibar |
| October | Less crowded, excellent game viewing |
| November | Short rains, good birding, fewer tourists |
| December | Holiday season, green scenery, calving begins |
Tanzania Travel Tips from Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris
✔️ Combine Kenya & Tanzania for a complete Great Migration experience
✔️ Book safaris in Serengeti & Ngorongoro early—especially June to October
✔️ Add Zanzibar for relaxation after your safari or trek
✔️Custom itineraries allow flexibility even during the rainy season
Let Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris Plan Your Perfect Tanzania Adventure
Whether you’re chasing lions across the plains of Serengeti, scaling Mount Kilimanjaro, or soaking in the sun on Zanzibar’s beaches, we’ll help you find the perfect time to go to Tanzania.
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.novaafrikasafaris.com
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