🌍 Tanzania Weather Conditions Overview
Tanzania has a tropical climate influenced by altitude and geography. The country experiences two main rainy seasons and two dry seasons, with regional variations between the coast, northern parks (like Serengeti), and the highlands (like Mount Kilimanjaro).
☀️ Seasons in Tanzania
🔹 Dry Season (Best for Safari & Climbing)
🗓️ June – October
Weather: Clear skies, low humidity, little to no rainfall
Temperatures:
Day: 20–30°C (68–86°F)
Night: 10–20°C (50–68°F); cooler in highlands
Best for: Game viewing, Mount Kilimanjaro trekking, Serengeti migration, Zanzibar beach holidays
Wildlife: Animals gather near water sources—excellent visibility for safaris
🔹 Short Rains
🗓️ November – Mid-December
Weather: Light, short-lived afternoon showers
Temperatures: Warm and humid
Best for: Fewer crowds, green landscapes, birding season starts
Wildlife: Animals still visible, vegetation begins to grow
🔹 Green/Wet Season
🗓️ Mid-March – May
Weather: Heavy rains, especially in April
Temperatures: Humid and warm; cooler in mountains
Best for: Birdwatching, budget travel, photography
Wildlife: More challenging due to tall grasses and muddy roads; fewer tourists
🔹 Hot Season
🗓️ January – February
Weather: Hot and dry with occasional brief rains
Temperatures: 25–35°C (77–95°F)
Best for: Serengeti calving season, Zanzibar beach holidays, early-year Kilimanjaro climbs
🏞️ Regional Variations
| Region | Weather Highlights |
|---|---|
| Northern Parks (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) | Moderate year-round; dry season best for wildlife |
| Coastal Areas (Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam) | Hot & humid year-round; wettest in April–May |
| Highlands (Arusha, Kilimanjaro) | Cooler temperatures, especially at night |
| Southern & Western Parks (Selous, Katavi, Ruaha) | Hot and remote; closed or muddy in peak rains |
🐘 Best Weather by Activity
| Activity | Best Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Safari | June–October | Dry season; best wildlife visibility |
| Birding Safari | November–April | Migratory species; lush landscapes |
| Kilimanjaro Climb | Jan–Mar / Jun–Oct | Dry, stable weather; cold at high altitude |
| Zanzibar Beaches | June–March | Dry and sunny; avoid April–May rains |
