Tanzania weather

Tanzania Wildlife Voyages highlights that the weather in Tanzania varies by region — but there’s always a good time to visit! The coastal regions tend to be the hottest and most humid, while the northern parts and the highlands enjoy cooler temperatures due to higher elevations. Throughout the year, daytime temperatures typically range between 22°C and 31°C. At night, the temperature can drop to between 10°C and 22°C. Zanzibar, situated near the Equator, experiences a truly tropical climate, making its beaches warm and inviting year-round.

Tanzania weather: the seasons

Tanzania experiences two main seasons each year: the dry season and the wet season. The wet season—also known as the rainy season—typically occurs in two phases: from late October to December (short rains), and again from late March to early June (long rains). These tropical showers often begin in the late afternoon and last through the night into the early morning. The rains in Africa are renowned around the world and offer a tranquil, mesmerizing experience for travelers exploring the country with Tanzania Wildlife Voyages.

Can I go on safari during the rainy season?

Did you know that National Geographic, Discovery Channel, and other leading media outlets choose Tanzania’s rainy season to film their wildlife documentaries?

Tanzania enjoys wonderful weather throughout the year, and while the rainy season brings heavier showers—mostly in the afternoons—it also breathes life into the landscape. The scenery becomes vibrant and lush, wildflowers bloom, animals thrive with abundant food, and the cooler temperatures make for a refreshing experience. Even better, Tanzania’s top attractions are far less crowded during this time.

One of the major advantages of visiting Tanzania in the rainy season is the reduced cost of safaris and accommodation, thanks to it being the low season. However, there are a few downsides—some lodges may close temporarily, and road conditions, especially in the southern parks, can be challenging.

If you plan to travel with Tanzania Wildlife Voyages during the rainy season, you’ll be glad to know that many parks remain open and welcoming. These include Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Lake Natron, and Arusha National Park. On the other hand, parks like Nyerere, Ruaha, Mikumi, and Udzungwa are best visited during the dry season due to accessibility issues.

So, if these southern destinations are on your travel list, plan your safari with Tanzania Wildlife Voyages accordingly for the best experience!

How does Tanzania weather affect wildlife?

The rains transform Tanzania into a lush paradise, drawing a high concentration of wildlife across the landscape. With abundant food and fresh water, animals become more active and visible, creating exceptional opportunities for sightings. The rain also shields them from the intense sun, allowing them to roam freely in large numbers — making your safari experience with Tanzania Wildlife Voyages both vibrant and rewarding.

Many of our guests find the rainy season offers a more personal and peaceful safari atmosphere. For bird enthusiasts, it’s an especially magical time, as migratory birds flock to Tanzania, enriching the skies with color and sound.

Want to know more about the climate and ideal travel periods? Visit our dedicated page on the best time to visit Tanzania for comprehensive insights.

Traveling during the rainy season also comes with the added advantage of lower safari and accommodation costs, thanks to the low season rates. However, there are a few downsides — some lodges temporarily close, and certain roads, particularly in southern Tanzania’s parks, can become challenging to navigate.

That said, several incredible parks remain open and welcoming during the rains. You can still explore Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Lake Natron, and Arusha National Park with Tanzania Wildlife Voyages. However, parks like Nyerere, Ruaha, Mikumi, and Udzungwa are best visited during the dry season due to limited access and closures.

So, if any of these southern parks are on your bucket list, we recommend planning your trip with Tanzania Wildlife Voyages during the dry months for the best experience.