Weather and temperatures in Tanzania and Zanzibar – when to go on holiday?

Have you ever dreamed of seeing wild animals in their natural habitat? Or maybe you want to relax on a paradise beach with turquoise waters and snow-white sand? Would you like to get to know the culture of one of the most ethnically diverse African countries from the inside? If you answered yes to at least one of these questions, it's time to plan your Planet Escape vacation in Tanzania, which practically all year round delights with its enchanting landscapes of various shades of green, rich vegetation, species diversity including many predators and types of birds, as well as idyllic beaches both on the continent and in Zanzibar Island. Any month of the year is really a good time to visit this country, but it is worth bearing in mind that its climate likes to play tricks, and individual regions differ not only geographically but also in terms of weather. So find out when it is worth booking trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar, choose a convenient date and take part in a wild African adventure. You won't be disappointed!

Tanzania – Ruaha National Park

Tanzania - climate 

Tanzania lies in the equatorial climate zone, which is why the weather is tropical, and the year is divided into a dry and rainy season. Its natural world is shaped to a large extent by the monsoon rains and winds, which are caused by the alternating heating and cooling of land and water. On the East African coast, the southern monsoon Kusi blows from April to mid-September, and the northern monsoon Kaskazi from December to March, and both of them have a significant impact on the flora and fauna in Tanzania, which is why you can once witness Great Migration animals in one of the largest African reserves Serengeti, and at other times observe the life of birds, of which as many as 1100 species occur in this country! Daily air temperatures oscillate around 25–30°C throughout the year, and only the highest African peak – Kilimanjaro – located on the border with Kenya, is covered with a layer of snow for all 12 months, and with increasing altitude, the temperature drops to just a few degrees Celsius. Tanzania has two rainy seasons: one, lasting from March to May, and the other, shorter, in November and December. Rains are then really heavy and most often occur in the afternoons. The dry season lasts from June to October and this is when most animals gather at the water reservoirs, but the number of tourists also increases.

During your safari in Tanzania, you can count on meeting Africa's Big Five

Due to its equatorial location, days in Tanzania are long – the sun rises around 06:00 in the morning and sets before 19:00. For the same reason, the tide changes on average every 6 hours, and the tides in this part of Africa are very strong. During low tide, the beach becomes huge, and the sea is shallow and only a few dozen centimetres deep. It is worth keeping this in mind when planning your beach hours and checking the tide schedule for a given day, which is easily available on the Internet. 

Low tide in Zanzibar? Maybe a snack!

Weather and temperatures in Tanzania throughout the year 

Tanzania – weather in January 

This month in Tanzania is very hot, dry and humid, especially on the coast (from 25 to 32°C). This is also the period of the dry season, and rains can occur from time to time at night. Birds begin their migration, and young animals are born, which can be observed in the southern part of the Serengeti Park, but this is not suitable for the faint of heart, as predators prey on newborns. Tanzania begins to cover in green, and the number of tourists is low. This is also the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro or Meru, because in other months their routes become slippery and more difficult to navigate due to the rains.

Tanzania – weather in February

February in Tanzania is similar to January. The dry season and with it the birthing season continue and the air temperatures are still very high (25-33°C), while in some parts of the country it may rain more often than in the previous month (mainly in the west). The parks in the north and south of the country are less crowded and their landscape is colorful.

Tanzania – weather in March 

In mid-March, the Masika rainy season begins, but the beginning of the month is still a good time for a safari or trekking in the chosen park. Many hotels are closing, but some offer tourists attractive prices, and the ever-crowded Serengeti Park is slowly becoming empty. Air temperatures in April during the day oscillate around 26°C with slight drops at night to 21 or minimum 16°C. The sky is more often cloudy, and the air humidity increases. It is recommended to take a raincoat, which will be useful especially in the afternoons.

Such a sight on the streets surprises no one!

Tanzania – weather in April 

In April the rains do not stop and are often even heavier than in March, with totals of up to 300 mm, but they rarely fall all day long. The roads become muddy, but the landscape is very green and the colors are very saturated. Climbing Kilimanjaro is particularly dangerous and not recommended, while the beaches are empty and the prices of accommodation are much lower.

Tanzania – weather in May 

The heavy rains only stop at the end of the month and then you can enjoy dry days and with them the lack of dust, because the ground is still moist. However, in recent years it has been observed that there is often less rainfall in this month than in the past, which is why May is mysterious and unpredictable in terms of weather. In May, animals slowly leave Tarangire Park (northern part of the country), so it is not the best time to visit it, but it is worth going to the Serengeti Park, because animals will gather there before migrating north. Despite the uncertain and changeable weather trip to tanzania in May is a good idea because it is the last month when the number of tourists is not huge yet, and with a bit of luck you can enjoy less rainy weather.

Tanzania – Ruaha National Park

Tanzania – weather in June 

In June, the sky brightens, the sun is visible more often, and heavy rains stop. Daytime temperatures hover around 25–30°C, and at night they drop to 15°C. Katavi and Mahale national parks become accessible again and you can observe the life of buffaloes there. The largest number of animals can be seen this time in the western part of the Serengeti park and this is the best time to go on a safari, because the lack of rain causes animals to gather at water reservoirs and it is easier to see them, and the savannah is no longer as densely overgrown. Additionally, in June begins the period of the Great Animal Migration, when almost 2 million of them migrate to the north of the country. It is worth taking a warmer sweatshirt or sweater, because it can be slightly cooler in the afternoons.

Tanzania - weather in July 

This is the driest month of the year, with only 13 mm of rainfall! The sky is cloudless, but the nights are cool, and the air is often dusty due to the dry ground. Crowds of people are flocking to Tanzania, and to avoid them, it is worth visiting national parks in the west or south of the country. This is also the perfect time to relax by Lake Tanganyika. Animals continue to migrate towards Kenya, and the largest number of elephants are in the park Tarangire. Sunglasses and warmer clothes must be included in a traveler's suitcase.

In July, you will see the most elephants in the Tarangire Park

Tanzania – weather in August 

The third month of drought is turning Tanzania's landscape into a more barren one, and some water bodies are drying up. The temperatures are pleasant and conducive to exploring the country. In August, the chances of seeing the African Big Five (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard) are high, because the guides know which water bodies the animals are heading to. The ocean water is crystal clear, so it is also a good time for a beach vacation - so you could say that August is a great month for trip to tanzania!

August is a great month for a safari in Tanzania

Tanzania – weather in September 

This is really the last month of the high season, when there is little rain, pleasant temperatures and low humidity. This is a good month to see zebras returning from Kenya and heading south. Climbing Kilimanjaro or Meru is also a good idea, but it is worth remembering that the high parts of these mountains are snow-covered.

Tanzania – weather in October 

Temperatures are rising and reaching 28°C during the day, and spring is beginning throughout the country. Tourist numbers are gradually decreasing, so it is also a good time to go on holiday to Tanzania. Rainfall is higher, but it is not yet torrential rain. Most animals are in Kenya, but many can still be seen on safari.

September and October are good months to see zebras.

Tanzania – weather in November 

This is the beginning of the short rainy season mvuli, which lasts only 2 months. The rains are heavy but short, reaching 110 mm, and the humidity increases. There are fewer cars on safari, so you can enjoy a more intimate atmosphere. In addition, the rains reduce dust and the Tanzanian landscape turns green, creating a beautiful setting for photographers.

Tanzania - Luxury Safari and Luxury Holidays in Zanzibar

Tanzania - Luxury Safaris & Luxury Holidays in Zanzibar | Arusha, Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Zanzibar
Private safaris with predatory lionesses, migrating wildebeests, majestic giraffes and friendly hippos, the Big Five of Africa in Ngorongoro, the vastness of the Serengeti savannah, the peaceful Tarangire and the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar – are you ready for an exciting, luxurious holiday in Tanzania? The safari excitement will be complemented by accommodation in exclusive African-style lodges, and then you will move to the Spice Island, a mosaic of four cultures mixed together like the ubiquitous scents of cardamom and vanilla. Wild Africa and luxurious holidays in Zanzibar? We invite you!

Tanzania – weather in December

The weather is similar to November and is sometimes hard to predict. This is a good time to observe birds that are returning to the country. The temperature ranges from 16 to 26°C, and the rain, like in November, reaches 110 mm. The country is less crowded and accommodation prices are often lower.

Tarangire National Park

Water temperatures in Tanzania 

Tanzania lies on the Indian Ocean, and its equatorial position means that water temperatures are high all year round and conducive to bathing. In August and September they reach about 25°C, while between September and April they reach 28/29°C. The water is the warmest in March (about 29°C), and the coldest (if we can even call this high temperature that) in August (about 25°C). The greatest influence on such temperatures is the warm Mozambique current, which brings warm waters to the East African coast. 

Zanzibar is idyllic Africa…

The most beautiful beaches of Zanzibar

Tanzania – beach tour of Zanzibar | Pongwe, Nungwi, Stone Town
Discover the white beaches of Zanzibar on both coasts with the magical Stone Town at the end. On the east coast, you will find pristine beaches and beautiful reefs, in the north, sand, flour structures and turquoise water.

Zanzibar - climate 

Zanzibar is the largest island belonging to Tanzania, which is a tropical oasis practically all year round! The dry season, which falls in the same months as in mainland Tanzania, is the best time to relax on the island, while the small rainfalls occurring mainly in November and December will not be a nuisance, and will often bring relief during the hot days.

Zanzibar – Michamvi

Zanzibar is hot all year round, and the ocean water is very warm (around 25–28°C). As in Tanzania, rainfall is heaviest in April and May, so traveling during this period is not popular, but if you want to avoid crowds, these months can also be considered, because the air and water temperatures will still be high. Of course, the downside holidays in Zanzibar at this time there will be cloudy, opaque water and muddy roads, but the advantage is - much fewer tourists!

Zanzibar weather and temperatures throughout the year

Zanzibar - Weather from January to March 

Cloudless skies and crystal-clear waters, combined with temperatures reaching up to 33°C during the day and 21°C at night, and very high humidity. This is a great time to vacation in Zanzibar to enjoy a relaxing holiday and uninhibited sunbathing, as the sun shines for about nine hours a day and the ocean water is warm (around 29°C). Rain is not expected until mid-March, but these will usually be short, afternoon downpours.

Zanzibar is a wonderful paradise of white sand beaches

Zanzibar - weather in April and May 

With the rainy season Zanzibar beaches they become wet and the sky becomes overcast. The amount of rainfall can reach up to 400 mm, while the number of sunny hours decreases to only 6 during the day. If the main purpose of your trip to Zanzibar is to spend time on the beach, then these two months will not be the best choice, but if you want to try your hand at scuba diving or snorkeling, then empty beaches will be just an additional bonus. Many hotels close during this period, but some of them offer tourists more attractive prices than in the season.

Oman & Zanzibar

Oman & Zanzibar | Muscat, Jebel Shams, Jebel Akhdar, Wahiba Sands, Zanzibar
Oman is a country of wonderful diversity. A harsh, wild desert, stone ranges of high hills, cut by rocky gorges, lush gardens and date plantations, exotic markets like from the Arabian Nights, over which the scent of incense hovers. See the magnificent mosques and palaces in Muscat, traverse rugged mountain trails, swim in cool wadis, spend the night in the desert under the stars and finally go to the former colony of Oman, Zanzibar, where golden beaches and fragrant spice plantations await you.

Zanzibar - Weather from June to October 

It's high Zanzibar season, when the weather is simply perfect! Temperatures reach around 26-30°C, and the ocean water is warm and turquoise. Sunshine shines for about 8-9 hours a day, and the sky is cloudless. The number of tourists during this time is enormous, so booking a hotel in advance is essential, and prices also increase. However, a stay on this paradise island during these months is unforgettable – it's the perfect time for a trip to Zanzibar!

Collecting seaweed is one of the activities of Zanzibari women.

Zanzibar - weather in November and December 

This is the period of the short rainy season and short but heavy rains. The temperature rises slightly and averages around 28°C, and the sun should be visible for most of the day. The amount of rainfall reaches 200 mm, and humidity is at 80%. However, there is nothing to stop you from visiting the island during the holiday season, because the rains usually fall sporadically and can bring relief during a hot day. And besides - what could be nicer than a winter vacation on a sunny island?

Traditional dhow boat

Water temperature in Zanzibar 

As in mainland Tanzania, water temperatures are high all year round and often reach 30°C. This is due to the Mozambique current flowing in eastern Africa, which warms the waters of the Indian Ocean. Going to holidays in Zanzibar it is also good to know where and when to expect the tides, which can be very strong on the island and occur twice a day. They are least bothersome in the north of the island, e.g. around Nungwi, while in the east, south and west the water can recede by up to 1,5 km! You can use this time to take a nap, visit nearby spice plantations or nature reserves. Most hotels in Zanzibar have tide charts, or you can use the website www.tide-forecast.com/locations/Zanzibar-Tanzania/tides/latest, where you will find all the information you need.

Zanzibar – Stone Town

Zanzibar Safari

Tanzania – Safari with Zanzibar | Arusha, Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Zanzibar, Stone Town
Private safari with predatory lionesses, migrating wildebeests, majestic giraffes and friendly hippos. All this on the vastness of the Serengeti plain and the largest caldera in the world, Ngorongoro. After the hardships of the safari, you will move to Zanzibar.

How to prepare for a trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar?

Visa to Tanzania

When planning an exotic trip to Tanzania, it's important to remember the visa requirements for Polish citizens. Fortunately, obtaining entry permits is simple and can be accomplished in two convenient ways: by applying online for an e-visa before departure or by purchasing one at the airport upon arrival. The first option, which costs $50 and is processed through the official Tanzanian immigration website, is recommended because it allows you to avoid queues and paperwork after a long flight. Regardless of the method chosen, it's crucial to have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Thanks to this simple process, visa formalities won't be an obstacle to discovering the wonders of the Serengeti or the paradise beaches of Zanzibar.

Visa to Zanzibar

When planning your dream vacation to Zanzibar, it's important to remember the visa requirement that applies to every Polish tourist. Fortunately, the process is simple and can be completed in two ways: conveniently online, by applying for an e-visa before departure, or traditionally, upon arrival at the airport. A standard tourist visa costs $50, and obtaining it opens the door to paradise beaches and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. In addition to the visa, it's crucial to have a passport valid for at least six months after your return date and mandatory travel insurance. These formalities ensure a safe and hassle-free trip to this exotic island.

What to take and pack for a trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar?

When packing for a trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar, the key is to prepare for two different worlds: a safari adventure and a relaxing beach paradise. Your suitcase should include lightweight, breathable clothing in muted earthy tones, perfect for wildlife viewing, as well as a warm fleece for cool mornings on the savannah. Equally important are breathable beachwear, perfect for Zanzibar's hot days, while remembering to dress more modestly for exploring local towns. Regardless of your destination, solid sun protection in the form of a high-factor sunscreen and effective mosquito prevention, including DEET repellent and medical advice for malaria, is essential. A well-packed bag is the foundation for a successful and safe trip, allowing you to fully enjoy the magical atmosphere of Africa.

Vaccinations for Tanzania

When preparing for a trip to Tanzania, health issues should be prioritized, starting with a consultation with a travel medicine physician. Although vaccination against yellow fever is mandatory, primarily for those arriving from areas where it is endemic, it is widely recommended and often required for travel between the mainland and Zanzibar. Vaccinations against foodborne illnesses such as hepatitis A and typhoid are also crucial. Antimalarial prophylaxis is also crucial, as the risk of contracting the disease in Tanzania is very high. Mosquito protection with repellents and mosquito nets is essential to minimize the risk not only of malaria but also of dengue fever.

Vaccinations for Zanzibar

A trip to Zanzibar promises heavenly views, but it requires careful health preparation. A key consideration is vaccination against yellow fever, which, while not always mandatory for flights from Europe, is in practice essential for connecting flights in African countries or when traveling from mainland Tanzania to the island. To fully protect yourself against local threats, travel medicine doctors also recommend vaccinations against hepatitis A and typhoid, which protect against foodborne illnesses. It's important to remember that the entire Zanzibar region is a high-risk zone for malaria, so taking preventative medication is just as important as using mosquito repellents against dengue. A timely visit to a specialist will allow you to complete the necessary vaccinations and enjoy every day of your carefree vacation.

Security in Tanzania and Zanzibar

A trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar is an extraordinary adventure, and the key to experiencing it fully and safely is being aware of local conditions and exercising appropriate caution. In the mainland, especially in larger cities, be wary of petty theft and avoid displaying valuables. During a safari, following the recommendations of experienced guides is an absolute priority. Meanwhile, in the paradise of Zanzibar, in addition to standard care for your belongings, respecting the local Islamic culture by covering shoulders and knees when not on the beach is crucial. Regardless of the destination, health care, including malaria prophylaxis and drinking bottled water, is essential for a successful trip.