Tanzania Weather Guide: Your Ultimate Resource for Perfect Planning
Planning a trip to Tanzania? Your adventure begins with understanding the heartbeat of the country—the weather. It’s important to know a little bit about the Weather in Tanzania, so you can figure out when is the best time to visit the country.
Tanzania's weather is influenced by multiple geographical elements—the Indian Ocean, mountain ranges, expansive plains, and lush greenery—all converging to create a diverse climate.
In this article, we'll unravel the secrets of Tanzania's climate, providing you with a comprehensive guide to ensure your trip is nothing short of extraordinary — providing insights into specific destinations
Let's dive into the heart of Tanzania's weather.
Tanzania Weather by Month Overview
Here’s a condensed overview of Tanzania's weather by month. This will serve as your compass, guiding you through the highs and lows of each season.
| Month | Weather Conditions | Top Activity |
|---|---|---|
| January | Warm (25°C to 30°C) | Scuba diving, Safari, Explore Ngorongoro Crater |
| February | Warm (24°C to 29°C) | Hot Air Balloon Safari, Dive in Zanzibar, Visit Tarangire National Park |
| March | Short rains begin (23°C to 28°C) | Cultural Exploration, Bird Watching in Manyara |
| April | Heavier rains (22°C to 27°C) | Zanzibar Beach Retreat, Cultural Experiences |
| May | End of short rains (21°C to 26°C) | Explore Moshi, Pemba Island Retreat |
| June | Dry season begins (20°C to 25°C) | Safari in Serengeti, Hike Kilimanjaro |
| July | Cool (19°C to 24°C) | Great Migration, Cultural Festivals |
| August | Cool (19°C to 24°C) | Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Climb Mount Meru |
| September | Long rains start (20°C to 25°C) | Wildlife Photography, Cultural Encounters |
| October | Wet season continues (21°C to 26°C) | Explore Tarangire, Cultural Immersion |
| November | End of long rains (22°C to 27°C) | Relax at Lake Manyara, Cultural Experiences |
| December | Dry season returns (23°C to 28°C) | Zanzibar Spice Tour, Safari in Ruaha National Park |
Tanzania Weather in January
January marks the end of the short rainy season (vuli), and Tanzania's "short, dry season" begins, lasting for a few months before it begins to rain again in earnest in March.
High temperatures in January are generally in the 80s F (27-30°C) while lows range from the upper 50s to low 70s F (10-21°C). Be prepared for clear, sunny days with short-sleeved shirts, shorts, or zip-off pants.
Useful weather numbers:
Average temperature: 82°F (28°C)
Average high temperature: 86°F (30°C)
Average low temperature: 68°F (20°C)
Average rainfall: 2 inches (50 mm)
Average humidity: 60%
Recommended activities
Scuba diving: If you’re a fan of the marine world, January is the absolute best month for you to visit Tanzania’s coast for unforgettable dive experiences with some of the regions top dive centers.
Dive in Tanzania with Swahili Divers (the safest Dive Center in East Africa for decades.)
Safari: January is a great time for safaris in Tanzania, as the animals are more active in the dry weather.
Hiking: The Ngorongoro Crater is a great place to go hiking in January, as the weather is pleasant and the views are amazing.
Beach vacation: The beaches of Zanzibar and Pemba Island are perfect for a relaxing beach vacation in January.
Recommended national parks
Serengeti National Park: The Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous wildlife refuges in the world, and it is a great place to see lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes.
Tarangire National Park: Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephant population, and it is also home to baobab trees, lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
Ngorongoro Crater: The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder. It is home to a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes.
2. Tanzania Weather in February
February is the hottest month of the year in Tanzania, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F). Rainfall is still minimal, but it may start to increase towards the end of the month.
Useful weather numbers
Average temperature: 84°F (29°C)
Average high temperature: 88°F (31°C)
Average low temperature: 70°F (21°C)
Average rainfall: 3 inches (75 mm)
Average humidity: 60%
Recommended activities
Safari: February is a great time for safaris in Tanzania, as the animals are still active in the dry weather.
Scuba diving: Dive expeditions are also very common in February because the waters of the Indian Ocean are still pretty warm and nice for underwater exploration.
Head over to Pemba Island for group dive expeditions and discover amazing coral reefs and other unique marine life present only in the region.
Are you considering diving in Africa? Great choice! Here’s everything you need to know about scuba diving in Tanzania.
Hiking: The Ngorongoro Crater is a great place to go hiking in February, as the weather is pleasant and the views are amazing.
Beach vacation: Pemba Island and Zanzibar are some of Africa’s top Islands for a vacation or honeymoon. And no month could be better than February.
3. Tanzania Weather in March
March is the start of the short rainy season in Tanzania. Average temperatures range from 23°C to 28°C (73°F to 82°F). Rainfall is more common this month, but it is usually short-lived and does not disrupt travel plans.
Useful weather numbers
Average temperature: 80°F (27°C)
Average high temperature: 84°F (29°C)
Average low temperature: 72°F (22°C)
Average rainfall: 5 inches (130 mm)
Average humidity: 65%
Top Tourist Activities:
Cultural Exploration in Arusha: Embrace Tanzanian culture in the vibrant city of Arusha.
Bird Watching on Pemba Island or Manyara: March is ideal for bird enthusiasts at Lake Manyara National Park or on Pemba Island Tanzania. Bring your binoculars to watch rare bird species the Pemba scops owl, the Pemba diving fox, the Pemba sunbird, etc.
Hiking: The Ngorongoro Crater is still a good place to go hiking in March, but it is important to be prepared for rain.
Beach vacation (Pemba Island, Zanzibar): March is another great month to spend amazing holidays in Zanzibar. Enjoy the beaches and fancy resorts. But be prepared for the possibility of rain.
4. Tanzania Weather in April
April is one of the wettest months of the year in Tanzania, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F). Rainfall is frequent this month, and it can be heavy at times.
Useful weather numbers
Average temperature: 78°F (25°C)
Average high temperature: 82°F (28°C)
Average low temperature: 74°F (23°C)
Average rainfall: 8 inches (200 mm)
Average humidity: 70%
Recommended activities
Visit a cultural village: April is a good time to visit a cultural village in Tanzania, as the rains have not yet made the roads impassable.
Visit a museum: April is also a good time to visit a museum in Tanzania, as you can escape the rain and learn about the country's history and culture.
Relax at a beach resort: If you are looking for a relaxing vacation, April is a good time to visit one of Zanzibar/Pemba Island’s luxury beach resorts.
Recommended national parks
Gombe Stream National Park: Gombe Stream National Park is a good option for visiting chimpanzees in April.
Mahale Mountains National Park: Mahale Mountains National Park is another good option for visiting chimpanzees in April.
Arusha National Park: Arusha National Park is a good option for visiting giraffes, zebras, and other animals in April.
5. Tanzania Weather in May
May is the end of the short rainy season in Tanzania. Average temperatures range from 21°C to 26°C (70°F to 79°F). Rainfall is still common this month, but it is not as heavy as it was in April.
Useful weather numbers
Average temperature: 76°F (24°C)
Average high temperature: 80°F (27°C)
Average low temperature: 72°F (22°C)
Average rainfall: 6 inches (150 mm)
Average humidity: 65%
Recommended activities
Safari: May is not a bad time for safaris in Tanzania, as the animals are starting to become active and the rains have started to subside.
Hiking: The Ngorongoro Crater is a good place to go hiking in May. The weather is pleasant and the views are amazing.
Zanzibar Beach Retreat: Head to Zanzibar for a relaxing beach getaway during brief rain spells.
Pemba Island Retreat: Dive into the clear waters of Pemba Island (A sister Island to Zanzibar) for a tranquil escape.
6. Tanzania Weather in June
June is the start of the dry season in Tanzania, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Rainfall is minimal this month, making it a good time to visit for safaris and other outdoor activities.
Useful weather numbers
Average temperature: 74°F (23°C)
Average high temperature: 78°F (26°C)
Average low temperature: 70°F (21°C)
Average rainfall: 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Average humidity: 55%
Recommended activities
Safari: Marvel at wildlife in the prime safari season. June is a great time for safaris in Tanzania. Places are quite dry and the animals are out and about.
Hiking: Enjoy clear skies and conquer Africa's highest peak. The Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park, and Arusha National Park are all good options for hiking in June.
Beach vacation: The beaches of Zanzibar are a perfect option for a relaxing beach vacation in June.
7. Tanzania Weather in July
July is one of the coolest months of the year in Tanzania, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C to 24°C (66°F to 75°F). Rainfall is still minimal this month.
Useful weather numbers
Average temperature: 72°F (22°C)
Average high temperature: 76°F (24°C)
Average low temperature: 68°F (20°C)
Average rainfall: 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Average humidity: 50%
Recommended activities
Witness the Great Migration: July is the peak of the migration in the Serengeti.
Cultural Festivals: Experience local traditions and festivals across the country.
Safari: July is another great month for safaris in Tanzania, given that the roads are dry and motorable, while animals are still active in the dry weather.
Hiking: The Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park, and Arusha National Park are all good options for hiking in July.
Birdwatching: Tanzania is home to over 1,500 species of birds, and July is a great time to see them, as they are active and visible in the dry weather. The place to see the widest and rarest species of birds is Pemba Island Tanzania, a sister Island to Zanzibar.
8. Tanzania Weather in August
August is another cool month in Tanzania, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C to 24°C (66°F to 75°F). Rainfall is still minimal this month.
Useful weather numbers:
Average temperature: 72°F (22°C)
Average high temperature: 76°F (24°C)
Average low temperature: 68°F (20°C)
Average rainfall: 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Average humidity: 50%
Top Tourist Activities:
Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Explore the unique landscapes and wildlife.
Climb Mount Meru: The cool temperatures and minimal rainfall of August provide optimal conditions for trekking this 14,980 ft dormant volcano in the Arusha National Park, Tanzania.
Safari: August is a great time for safaris in Tanzania.
9. Tanzania Weather in September
September is the start of the long rainy season in Tanzania. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Rainfall is more common this month, but it is usually short-lived and does not disrupt travel plans.
Useful weather numbers:
Average temperature: 74°F (23°C)
Average high temperature: 78°F (26°C)
Average low temperature: 70°F (21°C)
Average rainfall: 4 inches (100 mm)
Average humidity: 65%
Top Tourist Recommended activities
Wildlife Photography: Capture the green landscapes and newborn wildlife in any of Tanzania’s top National Parks.
Cultural Encounters: Engage with local communities during the quieter tourist season.
Safari: September is still a good time for safaris in Tanzania, as the animals are still active and the rains have not yet made the roads impassable.
Hiking: The Ngorongoro Crater is still a good place to go hiking in September, but it is important to be prepared for rain.
Beach vacation: The beaches of Zanzibar are still a good option for a beach vacation in September, but it is important to be aware of the possibility of rain.
10. Tanzania Weather in October
October is one of the wettest months of the year in Tanzania. Average temperatures range from 21°C to 26°C (70°F to 79°F). Rainfall is frequent this month, and it can be heavy at times. You probably shouldn’t go on a safari trip in Tanzania during this period.
Useful weather numbers:
Average temperature: 76°F (24°C)
Average high temperature: 80°F (27°C)
Average low temperature: 72°F (22°C)
Average rainfall: 6 inches (150 mm)
Average humidity: 70%
Top Recommended activities
Visit a cultural village: Perfect month to participate in local ceremonies and traditions. October is a good time to visit a cultural village in Tanzania, as the rains have not yet made the roads impassable.
Visit a museum: October is also a good time to visit a museum in Tanzania, as you can escape the rain and learn about the country's history and culture.
Relax at a beach resort: If you are looking for a relaxing vacation, October is a good time to visit a beach resort in Zanzibar.
Find out when is the best time to visit Zanzibar, for your preferred fun activity — in our guide.
11. Tanzania Weather in November
November is the end of the long rainy season in Tanzania. Average temperatures range from 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F). Rainfall is still common this month, but it is not as heavy as it was in October.
Useful weather numbers:
Average temperature: 78°F (25°C)
Average high temperature: 82°F (28°C)
Average low temperature: 74°F (23°C)
Average rainfall: 5 inches (130 mm)
Average humidity: 65%
Recommended activities
Relax at Lake Manyara: Enjoy the tranquility of this picturesque lake.
Cultural Experiences: Connect with locals as tourism picks up.
Safari: November is still a good time for safaris in Tanzania, if you’re in the south of Tanzania, because the animals may start to move to the south of the country.
Hiking: The Ngorongoro Crater is still a good place to go hiking in November, but it is important to be prepared for rain.
Beach vacation: The beaches of Zanzibar and Pemba Island are still a good option for a beach vacation in November, but remain aware of the possibility of rain.
12. Tanzania Weather in December
December is a hot and humid month in Tanzania, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). Rainfall is still common this month, but it is usually less than in November.
December is not the best time for safaris in Tanzania, since the animals may be more spread out due to the heat and humidity.
Useful weather numbers:
Average temperature: 82°F (28°C)
Average high temperature: 86°F (30°C)
Average low temperature: 70°F (21°C)
Average rainfall: 4 inches (100 mm)
Average humidity: 75%
Recommended activities
Zanzibar Spice Tour: December is the best month of the year to visit Tanzania for the almighty Zanzibar spice tours. Take well-orchestrated cooking lessons directly on the spice farms and discover the secrets to top East African meals and delicacies firsthand.
Hiking: The Ngorongoro Crater is still a good place to go hiking in December, but it is important to be prepared for the heat and humidity.
Beach vacation: The beaches of Zanzibar and Pemba Island in December are quite stunning. It’s why they’re a good option for a beach vacation for families or couples looking to spend Christmas in Africa.
Speaking of Vacation, here are 8 of the best activities I’d recommend to do in Tanzania for a vacation.
What Factors Influence Tanzania's Climate?
Tanzania's weather is influenced by its diverse geography, including coastal plains, highland plateaus, and the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro. This diversity contributes to variations in temperature and precipitation across different regions.
Geographical Diversity: From coastal lowlands to mountainous regions, Tanzania's diverse geography influences temperature variations and weather patterns.
Altitude Impact: Higher altitudes, such as around Kilimanjaro, bring cooler temperatures, creating distinct climates in different regions.
Indian Ocean Influence: Coastal areas experience tropical climates, thanks to the Indian Ocean's warming effect.
FAQ on Weather in Tanzania
Q1: What is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?
A: The best time to visit Tanzania depends on the activities you’re eager to experience. For safaris and wildlife, June to October is ideal. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider the quieter months from November to March.
Q2: Are there Year-Round Beach Options?
A: Yes, Zanzibar and Pemba Island offer beautiful beaches year-round. June to October is often favored for clearer skies and calm seas. Tanzania is perfect for an unforgettable African beach vacation all year round. Enjoy calm, peace, tranquility, and complete cultural immersion.
Q3: Can I Still Enjoy Safaris During the Rainy Season?
A: Yes, you can enjoy safaris year-round. During the rainy season (November to March), you'll witness lush landscapes, newborn wildlife, and fewer tourists. However, some areas may be inaccessible due to muddy roads.
Q4: What Should I Pack for Tanzania?
A: Pack lightweight and breathable clothing for the daytime, including long sleeves for sun protection. For cooler evenings and higher altitudes, bring a light jacket. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to explore. In the rainy season, pack a rain jacket and waterproof shoes.
Q5: Is Tanzania Safe for Tourists?
A: Tanzania is generally safe for tourists. Exercise usual travel precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and follow local guidelines. Consult travel advisories before your trip.
Q6: Can I Climb Kilimanjaro Year-Round?
A: Yes, you can climb Kilimanjaro year-round. However, the dry seasons from June to October and December to February are considered optimal for clearer skies and better trekking conditions.
Q7: Are Malaria Precautions Necessary?
A: Yes, Tanzania is a malaria-prone area. Consult with a healthcare professional before your trip to determine the appropriate antimalarial medication. Additionally, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep under a mosquito net.
Q8: What Currency Is Used in Tanzania?
A: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, but credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas.
Q9: Can I Experience Cultural Events and Festivals Year-Round?
A: Yes, Tanzania hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Check the local calendar for celebrations like Nguvumali Festival, Karibu Music Festival, and others.
Q10: Are There Special Permits Needed for National Parks?
A: Yes, entrance permits are required for national parks and wildlife reserves. These permits contribute to conservation efforts. Obtain permits in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need specific details tailored to your travel plans!
Conclusion
Now armed with the knowledge of Tanzania's weather and the best activities each month, you can plan a trip tailored to your preferences. Whether you're chasing the Great Migration, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in cultural celebrations, Tanzania offers a captivating experience year-round.
