best time to visit tanzania
The best time to visit Tanzania largely depends on the type of experience you are looking for, particularly wildlife viewing, which can vary throughout the year. Here’s a breakdown of the best times for different activities and destinations:
1. Best Time for a Safari (Wildlife Viewing)
Dry Season (June to October): This is generally considered the best time to visit Tanzania for safaris. Wildlife congregates around waterholes and rivers as the vegetation is sparse, making animals easier to spot. It’s an excellent time for visiting major parks like the Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Ruaha.
- Highlights:
- The Great Migration (river crossings) in the northern Serengeti (July to September).
- Excellent wildlife viewing in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and other parks.
- Pleasant weather with little to no rain, low humidity, and fewer mosquitoes.
2. Great Wildebeest Migration
- June to September: This is the peak time to witness the wildebeest crossing the Mara River in the northern Serengeti, which is one of the most dramatic wildlife events in the world.
- Calving Season (January to March): The Southern Serengeti and Ndutu area are perfect for witnessing the calving of wildebeest. This is when thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators like lions and cheetahs.
3. Best Time for Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking
- January to March and June to October: These are the two main trekking seasons for Mount Kilimanjaro. The weather is drier, making the climb more enjoyable, and there is less chance of rain, especially in the higher altitudes.
- January to March: Slightly colder but quieter, with fewer trekkers.
- June to October: More popular and warmer, though trails may be busier.
4. Best Time for Zanzibar (Beach Holidays)
- Dry Season (June to October): Ideal for a beach holiday on Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia Island. These months offer pleasant weather, with minimal rainfall, warm temperatures, and clear skies for swimming and snorkeling.
- December to February: This period is also good, offering warm temperatures and a festive atmosphere. It’s great for a mix of wildlife and beach experiences.
5. Green (Wet) Season
- November to December (Short Rains): There are brief afternoon showers, but it’s still a good time to visit as the parks are less crowded, and you can see migratory birds.
- March to May (Long Rains): This is the least favorable time for safaris, as the heavy rains can make some roads impassable, and the vegetation is lush, making wildlife more difficult to spot. However, the landscapes are green and beautiful, and you may find cheaper rates on lodges and tours.
Key Takeaways:
- Best time for safaris: June to October (Dry season).
- Best time for the Great Migration river crossing: July to September.
- Best time for the Great Migration calving season: January to March.
- Best time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: January to March and June to October.
- Best time for Zanzibar beach holidays: June to October, and December to February.
Overall, the dry season from June to October is the best time to visit Tanzania for most activities, particularly safaris. However, if you’re interested in specific wildlife events like the calving or river crossings, or you prefer fewer crowds, the timing of your visit may vary.