When to go to Tanzania?

1. Dry Season (June to October)

• Best time for wildlife safaris: This is considered the peak season for safaris, particularly in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The dry conditions force animals to congregate around water sources, making wildlife easier to spot.
• Weather: Expect warm temperatures and clear skies, especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Coastal areas like Zanzibar are also dry, with pleasant temperatures.
• Great for hiking: This is also the best time to trek Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, as the conditions are ideal for hiking with less rainfall and clear views.

2. Green Season (March to May)

• Best for birdwatching and fewer tourists: The rains (shorter and lighter in November and December, heavier from March to May) lead to lush landscapes, which are stunning. This period sees fewer tourists, so it’s a good time for those who prefer a quieter experience.
• Lower prices: Accommodation and tours are often cheaper during this period.
• Wildlife: While it’s still possible to see animals, they tend to be more spread out, and some parks might be harder to access due to muddy roads.

3. Shoulder Season (November to Mid-December, Early January to February)

• Moderate crowds: This is a good time if you want to avoid the peak-season crowds but still want decent weather. The weather is typically sunny with brief rain showers.
• Wildlife migration: From late December to February, it’s the calving season for wildebeest in the Serengeti, which is a great time for seeing newborn animals and predator activity.
• Less rain in Zanzibar and coastal areas: Zanzibar can be a good choice for beach lovers, with warm weather and fewer rain showers compared to the main rainy season.

Other Considerations:

• Climbing Kilimanjaro: The best months to summit Mount Kilimanjaro are from June to October and from December to February, when the weather is dry and more stable.
• Beach Holidays: Zanzibar and other coastal areas are great year-round, but for the best weather, you’ll want to visit during the dry seasons (June to October and December to March).

In summary, the ideal time for most visitors is June to October for safaris, wildlife viewing, and mountain treks. However, if you’re after a quieter experience with lush landscapes, the green season (March-May) could be a good fit.