Best Time to Visit Tanzania and Zanzibar
Tanzania and Zanzibar offer two of Africa’s most iconic experiences: thrilling safaris and dreamy tropical beaches. But when is the best time to visit both?
It depends on what you want to see and do. From wildlife migrations to beach weather, this guide breaks down the best times to visit Tanzania and Zanzibar—month by month.
Tanzania: Best Time for Safaris and Wildlife
Tanzania is a top safari destination, home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and more. Wildlife can be seen year-round, but some months offer better viewing and travel conditions.
Best Time for Safaris:
June to October – The long dry season
During this period:
- Animals gather at water sources, making them easy to spot.
- Grass is short, improving visibility.
- Roads are dry and easy to navigate.
- Mosquitoes are fewer, and skies are clear.
This is peak safari season, especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Great Migration Viewing:
- June to July – Wildebeest move north; best for river crossings in the Grumeti area.
- August to October – Dramatic Mara River crossings in northern Serengeti. A photographer’s dream.
- December to March – Calving season in southern Serengeti; predators are active.
Avoid the long rains from March to May, especially in remote parks, as some roads can become impassable.
Zanzibar: Best Time for Beaches and Island Life
Zanzibar is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round. But rainfall and humidity vary across the seasons.
Best Time for Zanzibar:
June to October – Cool and dry
This is the best time for:
- Beach relaxation with sunny skies and low humidity
- Diving and snorkeling with good underwater visibility
- Cultural tours in Stone Town and spice farms
July and August are busy months, so book early.
Other Good Months:
- December to February – Hot and dry; great for sunseekers
- Good for festivals and diving, but also peak travel season
Rainy Seasons to Note:
- March to May – Long rains; heavy downpours and high humidity
- November – Short rains; brief, scattered showers, but still manageable for travel
During the rainy months, some beach lodges close or offer discounted rates.
Best Time to Visit Both Tanzania and Zanzibar Together
The ideal time to combine a safari with a beach escape is during the dry season from June to October. You’ll enjoy:
- Incredible wildlife in the Serengeti or Ngorongoro
- Smooth travel conditions between mainland and island
- Perfect beach days in Zanzibar after your safari
December to February is also a good window if you prefer warmer beach weather and don’t mind higher heat inland.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
| Month | Tanzania (Safari) | Zanzibar (Beach) |
| January | Great for calving season | Hot and dry |
| February | Peak calving and predators | Hot, with occasional rain |
| March | Rains begin | Start of long rains |
| April | Long rains, avoid travel | Wet and humid |
| May | Wet but quiet, few visitors | Still rainy |
| June | Dry season begins, ideal | Perfect beach weather |
| July | Peak safari and migration | Cool and sunny |
| August | Wildebeest crossings | Great for diving |
| September | Top game viewing | Excellent conditions |
| October | End of dry season | Short rains may begin |
| November | Short rains start | Still possible to visit |
| December | Warm and festive, busy | Good weather, high demand |
Final Thoughts
The best time to visit Tanzania and Zanzibar is during the dry season from June to October. You’ll enjoy the best safari conditions and sunny beach days. If you’re chasing the Great Migration or calving season, January to March is also an excellent choice.
