Safaris and Game Viewing
The best time to enjoy a safari and view game in Tanzania is June to October. During this time hundreds of herbivores gather near water sources and dense numbers of predators will be waiting for them.
The great wildebeest migration occurs during the dry season, and in July the famous river-crossings take place. Other important months on the wildebeest migration calendar are January to February to see the calving season or May and June to experience the rut (mating season). Both events are spectacular to behold.
January and February are generally dry months but with fewer visitors in the national parks – it a great time for a safari!
The perfect safari weather occurs during the dry season with low humidity and temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). Nights and mornings are cool.
Bird watchers will enjoy seeing the resident birds in the dry season and the arrival of the migratory birds in November and December.
Kilimanjaro Trekking
The best time to trek Mount Kilimanjaro is the dry season, from June to October, or from January to February when the weather is also dry. Suppose you would like to have a guaranteed experience. In that case, either of these two periods of dry weather, June to October, or January to February, are the two optimum periods to trek Mount Kilimanjaro.
However, this is the peak season on the mountain, so if you want to avoid the crowds whilst trekking Kilimanjaro, try to consider periods outside these months.
March to May is the wet season in Tanzania and it is generally not recommended to trek the mountain, however, it is theoretically possible to trek Mount Kilimanjaro throughout the year. For help planning your trek contact one of our country experts.
Beach Holiday in Zanzibar
The best time for a beach holiday in Zanzibar is June to October. Crystal clear sea, coconut trees bowing over white sandy beaches, low humidity, yet warm weather with no rain, all combine to create the best time for a tropical beach holiday in Zanzibar.
Snorkeling and diving on the coral reef can be incredible from June to February, depending on the weather. However, January to March is the best time to dive into Zanzibar. Plan your diving experience in September to coincide with hatching turtles or December if you want to share the water with whale sharks.
If you enjoy the heat and humidity, January and February is the period for you. March to May is the rainy season and it is worth avoiding this period if you are hoping for the dream beach holiday on Zanzibar.