Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari and Kilimanjaro Climbing (Month-by-Month Guide)
Planning a trip to Tanzania is exciting, but one of the most important questions travelers ask is:
When is the best time to visit Tanzania for safari and Mount Kilimanjaro climbing?
The short answer is: Tanzania is a year-round destination.
The better answer is: different months offer different experiences depending on weather, wildlife movement, crowd levels, and climbing conditions.
This complete guide explains everything clearly so you can choose the perfect time for your safari or Kilimanjaro adventure.
Understanding Tanzania’s Seasons
Tanzania has two main seasons:
Dry Season
- June to October
- Best for wildlife viewing
- Best for photography
- Cool and dry weather
- Peak tourist season
Wet Season
- March to May (long rains)
- November to December (short rains)
- Fewer tourists
- Lower prices
- Greener landscapes
Both seasons have advantages depending on your travel goals.
Best Time for Tanzania Safari
June to October – Best Overall Safari Season
This is the most popular time for safaris.
Why it’s excellent:
- Animals gather around water sources
- Vegetation is thin → wildlife is easier to spot
- Weather is dry and comfortable
- Roads are in good condition
Best parks during this time:
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Tarangire National Park
- Ruaha National Park
Downside:
- Higher prices
- More visitors in popular parks
January to March – Great for Baby Animals & Migration Calving
This is a special time in the Serengeti.
Highlights:
- Wildebeest give birth in southern Serengeti
- Many predators around
- Lush green landscapes
- Fewer crowds than peak season
This period is excellent for:
- Wildlife photographers
- People who want fewer tourists
- Safari lovers who enjoy dramatic nature scenes
April to May – Budget Safari Season (Rainy)
This is the long rainy season.
Advantages:
- Cheapest safari prices
- Very green scenery
- Fewer tourists
- Good bird watching
Disadvantages:
- Some roads may be muddy
- Wildlife is more spread out
This is ideal for travelers who:
- Want lower costs
- Don’t mind some rain
- Prefer quiet parks
Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro can be climbed all year, but some months are better than others.
January to March – Best for Clear Views & Snowy Summit
- Warmer temperatures
- Less crowded routes
- Occasional snow near the summit
- Good visibility
Perfect for:
- Photographers
- First-time climbers
- Travelers who prefer quieter trails
June to October – Most Popular Climbing Season
- Very stable weather
- Dry trails
- Cold nights at high altitude
- Highest number of climbers
This is the safest and most reliable time for most people.
April & May – Not Recommended (Heavy Rain)
- Slippery trails
- Cold and wet conditions
- Poor visibility
Only recommended for:
- Experienced trekkers
- Budget travelers
- Those who don’t mind rain
Month-by-Month Overview
| Month | Safari | Kilimanjaro | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Excellent | Excellent | Warm, green, migration calving |
| February | Excellent | Excellent | Best wildlife photography |
| March | Good | Good | Start of rains |
| April | Fair | Poor | Heavy rain |
| May | Fair | Poor | Wet but cheap |
| June | Excellent | Excellent | Start of peak season |
| July | Excellent | Excellent | Migration river crossings begin |
| August | Excellent | Excellent | Peak season |
| September | Excellent | Excellent | Best overall |
| October | Excellent | Excellent | End of dry season |
| November | Good | Good | Short rains |
| December | Good | Good | Holiday season |
Best Time for Combined Safari + Kilimanjaro Trip
If you want to do both safari and climbing in one trip, the best months are:
✅ January – February
✅ June – October
These months give you:
- Great wildlife viewing
- Safe climbing conditions
- Comfortable weather
Final Advice
There is no “bad” time to visit Tanzania — only different experiences.
Choose based on:
- Your budget
- Your comfort with crowds
- Your interest in wildlife events
- Your climbing goals
If you want the safest and most popular option:
👉 Visit between June and October
If you want fewer people and beautiful landscapes:
👉 Visit between January and February