Tanzania Safari Weather — What to Expect Each Month

Tanzania spans multiple climate zones. The highlands (Arusha, Ngorongoro rim) are cool year-round. The plains (Serengeti, Tarangire) are hot and dry. The coast and islands (Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam) are tropical and humid.

The dry season is peak safari season for good reason. Little rain, reliable wildlife viewing, and comfortable temperatures.

• June-August: Coolest months. Morning temperatures 10-15°C, midday 25-28°C
• September-October: Warming up. Morning 15-18°C, midday 28-32°C
• Rain: Minimal. Occasional light showers possible
• Dust: Increasing through October as vegetation dries

The short rains bring brief, scattered afternoon showers. Landscapes turn green, migratory birds arrive, and prices drop.

• November: Hot and humid. 20-30°C
• December: Intermittent rain, lush landscapes
• Rain: Brief afternoon thunderstorms, rarely all-day
• Wildlife: Dispersed but present. Good birding season

The long rains are heavier and more persistent. Some lodges close, roads become difficult, and the Serengeti is lush and empty.

• March: Transitional. Some rain, still hot
• April: Peak rainfall. Roads can be muddy, some camps closed
• May: Rain tapering off. Excellent value, emerald landscapes
• Temperature: 20-28°C. Humid but not unbearable

Technically the green season, but distinct enough to deserve its own category. The southern Serengeti and Ndutu are the focus.

• January-February: Peak calving. 8,000 wildebeest calves born daily
• March: Calving ends, herds begin moving west
• Weather: Warm days (25-30°C), occasional showers, green grass

• June-August: Warm layers, fleece, beanie, gloves for morning drives
• September-October: Light layers, sun protection, dust mask/buff
• November-December: Light rain jacket, waterproof bag for camera
• January-March: Light layers, insect repellent, waterproofs
• April-May: Full rain gear, waterproof boots, warm layers

Read our full packing list or plan your safari with us.