Tanzania Weather & Climate
Understand Tanzania's climate to plan the perfect trip.
Tanzania's Climate
Tanzania has a tropical climate that varies by region. The coast and Zanzibar are hot and humid, the interior plateaus are temperate, and the highland areas (including Kilimanjaro) can be cold, especially at night.
There are two main rainy seasons: the long rains (March to May) and the short rains (November to December). The dry season runs from June to October, with another dry spell in January and February.
Climate Zones
Coast & Zanzibar
28-32°CHot and humid year-round. Best June-October and December-February.
Northern Parks (Serengeti, Ngorongoro)
15-28°CPleasant days, cool nights. Ngorongoro can be cold due to elevation.
Southern Parks (Ruaha, Nyerere)
20-35°CHotter and drier than the north. Best June-October.
Kilimanjaro
-20 to 20°CVaries dramatically by altitude. Summit is arctic. Base is tropical.
Rainy Seasons
Long Rains (March to May)
Heavy, predictable rains. Some lodges and roads close. Not recommended for safari, but great for photographers who love dramatic skies and lush landscapes.
Short Rains (November to December)
Brief, unpredictable showers. Usually in the afternoon. Safaris still run and the landscape turns green. Fewer tourists and lower prices.
Tell us how you want to travel. We will plan the rest.
A Wild Host specialist in Arusha replies with a written itinerary and quotation.