June to October is the classic dry season; the green season offers quieter parks.
Tanzania has a dry season from roughly June to October and rains from November to May, with the heaviest falling in April and May. Altitude changes everything, so Ngorongoro is cool while Zanzibar is hot and humid.
Quick FactsJune to October.
November to December.
March to May.
January to March in the southern Serengeti.
January and February are warm and dry with calving. March to May is wet with lush scenery and low prices. June to October is cool, dry and peak season. November and December see shorter rains and birds arriving.
The northern circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Manyara) follows this pattern. Southern parks such as Ruaha and Nyerere are best in the dry season, when animals gather at water; see southern Tanzania.
Kilimanjaro is best climbed in January to March and June to October. Zanzibar is hot, with heavy rains in April and May. See Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar weather.
Our rainy season guide and best time to visit cover details.
Frequently Asked QuestionsJune to October is the classic dry season.
November to December and March to May.
The coast is; the highlands are mild.
It is harder; dry months are preferred.
Two rainy seasons shape the Tanzania safari calendar, and the green months are often the best value of the year.
Explore →The Great Migration and Africa’s most famous open plains. Plan a luxury Serengeti safari with Ameera Africa Safaris.
Explore →More than a million wildebeest follow the rains in a loop between Tanzania and Kenya.
Explore →Uganda’s seasons explained — when to go for gorilla trekking, game viewing and the best value permit pricing.
Explore →Tell us your dates and interests and we will design the route around you.
