When is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?
The best time to visit Tanzania depends on the activity you have at heart.
Generally speaking, the best time to go to Tanzania for a safari is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the weather is sunny and clear, making it easier to spot animals.
Meanwhile, the best time to visit Tanzania and Zanzibar for scuba diving is during the warm season, which runs from November to April. The water temperature is warm and clear, which is perfect for diving.
January to February are the best months to visit Tanzania to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti National Park.
With all these intricacies, picking the right month for your trip can get a little tricky.
This article will help you pick the best months or seasons to visit Tanzania so you can make the most of your Tanzanian escapade.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable visit to Tanzania.
The Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari, Scuba Diving, or the Great Migration
Summary:
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| Jan | Safari, Scuba Diving, Great Migration |
| Feb | Safari, Scuba Diving, Great Migration |
| Mar | Safari |
| Apr | Not Advised |
| May | Not Advised |
| Jun | Safari, Bird-Watching |
| Jul | Safari, Wildlife Viewing |
| Aug | Safari, Wildlife Viewing, Diving |
| Sep | Safari, Wildlife Viewing |
| Oct | Safari, Wildlife Viewing |
| Nov | Safari, Bird-Watching |
| Dec | Safari, Bird-Watching |
When is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari?
When it comes to East African Safaris, timing is everything. Tanzania boasts two distinct safari seasons, each with its unique charm.
Dry Season — June to October:
The best time to go to Tanzania for a safari is from June to October. The weather in Tanzania at this time is sunny and clear, creating ideal conditions for wildlife spotting.
The vegetation thins out, making it easier to spot animals as they gather around water sources.
During this period, the Tanzanian savannah is bathed in golden sunlight. The skies are clear, and the weather is dry, making it the ideal time for safari enthusiasts.
Why visit Tanzania during the dry season?
Exceptional wildlife visibility due to sparse vegetation.
Ideal weather with sunny days and cool nights.
Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, a natural spectacle like no other.
Green Season — November to May:
The second best time for a safari in Tanzania is from November to May (The green season). As the dry season retreats, the green season emerges. From November to April, the landscape transforms into a lush, emerald paradise.
Heavy rains rejuvenate the vegetation, and the animal kingdom thrives. This is a fantastic time for birdwatchers and photographers seeking vibrant, green backdrops.
However, it's worth noting that some areas may become muddy and impassable due to heavy rains.
Why visit during the green season?
Lush landscapes provide stunning photography opportunities.
Lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.
Exceptional birdwatching as migratory birds arrive.
Best Time To Visit Tanzania for a Safari by Major Park
To ensure you're in the right place at the right time, here's a breakdown of the best months to visit Tanzania's major national parks, from January to December:
| National Park | Best Months to Visit | Why It's Ideal |
|---|---|---|
| Serengeti National Park | January to March, June to October | January to March: Witness the calving season, a time of intense predator-prey interactions. June to October: Dry season with excellent wildlife visibility due to sparse vegetation. |
| Ngorongoro Crater | Year-round, but June to October is ideal | Year-round: Wildlife is present year-round due to the Crater's unique ecosystem. June to October: Ideal weather with sunny days and cool nights. |
| Tarangire National Park | June to October | June to October: Dry season with abundant wildlife, including elephants, which are attracted to the Tarangire River. |
| Ruaha National Park | June to October, December to February | June to October: Dry season offers great wildlife visibility, especially around the rivers. December to February: A second dry season, great for birdwatching and fewer crowds. |
| Selous Game Reserve | June to October | June to October: Dry season with excellent wildlife sightings. The Rufiji River draws wildlife for stunning river safaris. |
| Katavi National Park | June to October | June to October: Dry season offers prime game viewing around water sources, with fewer tourists. |
These parks offer diverse landscapes and unique wildlife experiences throughout the year. Depending on your interests, you can plan your visit to align with the best times to explore these remarkable Tanzanian destinations.
The Great Migration
This is one of Tanzania's most iconic wildlife events: the Great Migration. This natural spectacle unfolds in the Serengeti National Park, particularly during the dry season.
Millions of wildebeest and zebras embark on an epic journey, migrating across the park for food and water.
Witnessing this awe-inspiring event is a dream come true for many, and the dry season from January to March is the prime time to catch it in action.
Ngorongoro Crater
The Serengeti isn't the only jewel in Tanzania's safari crown. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a year-round safari destination. It's home to a remarkable diversity of animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and more.
Then there's the Tarangire National Park, known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds. These parks offer unique safari experiences.
So whether you're tracking the Great Migration or exploring crater floors, Tanzania has it all.
Now that we've covered the best time for safaris, let's dive into the enchanting world of scuba diving in Tanzania.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania and Zanzibar for Scuba Diving
Tanzania's coastline is a haven for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Diving conditions play a pivotal role in the quality of your underwater experience. When the water is clear and inviting, you'll meet vibrant coral reefs and an array of marine life to make the journey worthwhile.
So, when is the best time to go to Tanzania for scuba diving? The warm season: November to April.
Diving in the Warm Season (November to April):
If you're seeking the perfect balance of warm waters and excellent visibility, the warm season is your window of opportunity. Stretching from November to April, this period offers the ideal conditions for scuba diving in Tanzania.
Here are 15 of the best things to do in Tanzania’s Zanzibar and Pemba Island.
The Best Time for Diving in Tanzania
The best time for scuba diving or snorkeling in Tanzania is during the warm season, which runs from November to April.
During the warm season, the water temperature is warm and clear which is perfect for diving. Visibility is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters (98 feet) and you'll be able to see a wide variety of marine life, including coral reefs, fish, sharks, and rays.
During this season, the water temperature in Tanzania's coastal areas is just right, hovering between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F) — the perfect recipe for memorable dives.
So, there you have it, the best time to explore Tanzania's coastal beauty beneath the waves. Whether you're a novice diver or a seasoned pro, Tanzania's warm season provides the ultimate diving experience.
Reach out to a reputable local dive center for all questions on planning your trip. It’s important to get first-hand advice tailored to your needs.
Top Dive Destinations in Tanzania, East Africa
Let's explore some of the top dive destinations in Tanzania:
1. Mafia Island Marine Park:
Picture yourself descending into crystal-clear waters, surrounded by an explosion of colors. Welcome to Mafia Island Marine Park, a scuba diver's paradise.
This marine park is home to a mesmerizing variety of coral reefs and fish species, from graceful manta rays to elusive seahorses. Dive deep or snorkel along the shallows; the choice is yours.
2. Zanzibar Archipelago:
Zanzibar is well-known around the world for its pristine beaches ideal for family vacations. But beneath the surface lies an exciting marine world waiting for dive enthusiasts.
The Zanzibar Archipelago offers a wealth of dive sites, each with its unique charm.
Explore coral gardens teeming with life, encounter playful dolphins, and drift along vibrant walls of soft coral. Zanzibar's underwater beauty is simply irresistible.
The best time to dive in Zanzibar is in the warm season from November to April.
Here’s everything you need to know about scuba diving in the Zanzibar Archipelago of the Indian Ocean.
3. Pemba Island Marine Park:
If you’re seeking thrilling encounters with sharks and rays, Pemba Island Marine Park is the place to be. This lesser-known scuba diving arena boasts vibrant coral formations and a rich marine ecosystem.
It is relatively new, untapped, uncrowded, safe, and serene, which is perfect for an exploratory dive.
Pemba Island is a hidden treasure for advanced divers seeking exhilarating experiences.
Discover more about scuba diving on Pemba Island.
Book Your Trip Today and Dive into Unforgettable Safari and Diving Experiences.
Is it possible to combine both safari and scuba diving experiences in one single trip to Tanzania? That would be incredible right? Well, lets see how we can make that happen.
Here’s how you can combine these two incredible experiences into one unforgettable trip to Africa.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania – Combining Safari and Scuba Diving
Tanzania is a land of diverse ecosystems, offering you the best of both worlds: the thrill of a safari in its breathtaking national parks and the mesmerizing beauty of scuba diving in its warm coastal waters.
If you’re a diver, why not take advantage of everything in a single trip: the wildlife, forest, and underwater adventures?
Sample Itineraries
Here are two sample itineraries that maximize both experiences:
1. Serengeti Safari and Zanzibar/Pemba Diving:
Begin with a thrilling safari in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater during the dry season from June to October.
After your safari adventure, hop on a short flight to the Zanzibar Archipelago, or get on a boat to its unspoiled and untapped jewel, Pemba Island.
Here you can dive into the crystal-clear waters of Zanzibar or Pemba Island, exploring vibrant coral reefs and encountering marine life like never before.
Conclude your trip by relaxing on Zanzibar's and Pemba’s pristine beaches, relishing the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
2. Mafia Island Diving and Serengeti Safari:
Start your journey with scuba diving adventures in the unspoiled Mafia Island Marine Park, ideally during the warm season from November to April.
From Mafia Island, fly to Tanzania's Serengeti National Park for an unforgettable safari experience.
Witness the Great Migration, explore the Ngorongoro Crater, and soak in the African wilderness.
Round off your adventure by returning to Mafia Island for some final dives and beachside relaxation.
Proximity to Zanzibar
One of the perks of combining safari and scuba diving in Tanzania is the proximity to Zanzibar.
Zanzibar, to many experts, is one of Africa’s top scuba diving and snorkeling sites, attracting thousands of divers around the world.
Whether you choose to explore the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Mafia Island, Zanzibar is just a short flight away. This makes it incredibly convenient for divers to extend their adventure with some beachfront bliss.
FAQ Section
Answers to questions you may still have.
Q: How much does it cost to go on a safari in Tanzania?
The cost of a safari in Tanzania varies depending on several factors, including the length of the safari, the type of accommodation, and the activities included.
Here is a breakdown of the average costs of different types of safaris in Tanzania:
Budget safari: $150-250 per person per day
This type of safari typically includes basic accommodation, such as camping or budget lodges, and game drives in open-sided vehicles.
Mid-range safari: $250-400 per person per day
This type of safari typically includes mid-range accommodation, such as permanent lodges with en suite bathrooms, and game drives in enclosed vehicles.
Luxury safari: $400-1,000 per person per day
This type of safari typically includes luxury accommodation, such as tented camps or lodges with private plunge pools, and game drives in enclosed vehicles with pop-up roofs.
Q: How much does it cost to go scuba diving in Tanzania?
The cost of scuba diving in Tanzania varies based on the location, the type of dive, and the number of dives. A single scuba dive in Tanzania can cost anywhere from $100 to $500. A package of multiple dives will typically be cheaper per dive.
Here is a breakdown of the average costs of different types of scuba diving offers in Swahili Divers, Tanzania:
Two Tank Dives: USD 100 - 130.00 USD
Three Morning Dives: USD 195.00
Three-day dive Pack (6 Morning Dives All Locations): USD 360.00
Five-Day Dive Pack (10 Morning Dives All Locations): USD 550.00
Q: Is safari cheaper in Kenya or Tanzania?
Tanzania generally offers more budget-friendly safari options compared to Kenya. However, both countries provide a range of choices to accommodate different budgets.
Q: How many days do you need for Tanzania?
A typical safari in Tanzania lasts about 7 to 10 days, allowing you to explore multiple parks and enjoy diverse wildlife experiences. The duration can be tailored to your preferences.
Q: Which is better in East Africa, Kenya or Tanzania?
Both Kenya and Tanzania offer outstanding safari experiences. The choice between the two depends on your specific interests and preferences. Combining both countries can provide a comprehensive East African adventure.
Q: Are there any scuba diving restrictions during certain seasons in Tanzania?
While diving is possible year-round in Tanzania, some locations may have seasonal closures or restrictions. It's essential to check with local dive operators for up-to-date information on diving conditions.
Q: Is it possible to arrange a safari in Tanzania and Kenya on a single trip?
Absolutely! Combining safaris in Tanzania and Kenya in one trip is a fantastic way to explore East Africa's diverse landscapes and wildlife. Experienced tour operators can assist in planning a seamless cross-border journey.
Q: Are there any recommended dive sites for beginners in Zanzibar?
Pemba Island is the go-to place for divers of all levels especially for beginners because of the renowned Swahili Divers training center. We are the only accredited Zanzibar dive training north of South Africa.
Zanzibar also offers several beginner-friendly dive sites, such as Mnemba Atoll and Kizimkazi. Local dive operators provide training and guided dives tailored to novice divers' needs.
Conclusion
The best time to visit Tanzania for safaris is during the dry season from June to October, while the warm season from November to April is ideal for scuba diving adventures.
And if you're up for the ultimate East African odyssey, consider combining both experiences by exploring Tanzania's wonders on land and underwater.
If you're ready to embark on your Tanzanian adventure or have any more questions, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to provide guidance tailored to your needs and budget. Happy travels and may Tanzania's wonders await you!
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