Here is a broad guide to the climate of Tanzania and the Best Time For A Tanzanian Safari– although remember that this comes from records and experience, not from a crystal ball.

As we have all seen weather across the world is changing and Tanzania is no different. The strict rainy seasons are becoming increasingly unpredictable, probably due to global warming. Tanzania is a tropical country but due to it’s size and elevation changes the weather varies greatly.

in general and the best thing to plan for when to go to Tanzania for safari is that the main rain season, called the ‘long rains’, usually begins in May and last until June. We are however seeing this stretch until August in recent years but the rain is less frequent. The rains are heavier and more predictable beside the coast and on the islands.

Humidity on the coastline is high throughout the year.  In between rainy seasons there is the long dry season this if from July to October and it used to be very unusual to see rain during this time. With worldwide affects of global warming we are now starting to see sporadic showers. During the dry season these rainy days are still few and far between. The temperature varies significantly on where you are in Tanzania – location and altitude all have an effect.  This is one of the best times to come to Tanzania and Zanzibar.

At the end of the dry season come – the short rains – usually Nov and Dec. These are much lower intensity than the long rains and in some years do not arrive. These are known as the mango rains as these rains help the young mango grow in the farms. During November and December there’s another rainy season this is called ‘short rains’.

When the rain ends then Tanzania’s hot season begins  -this is Dec-Feb and has the most sunlight hours and highest temperatures.

Now you know When to go to Tanzania for Safari

When To Climb Mt Kilimanjaro

January-March OR June-October. January-March is generally colder than June-October and there is a higher probability of encountering snow on the summit.

 We have found that the earlier in the year you climb Kilimanjaro then the weather is generally colder and there is a higher chance of there being snow on the summit. This means that it can be a harder trek but on the flip side means the mountain is much quieter.

 Mount Kilimanjaro has its unique weather patterns created by itself. It is primarily due to its extreme height. The weather from January to February is warm, and it starts to rain from April to May. June and July goes cold while the weather in August and September becomes sunny and dry.

Due to it’s shear size the weather patterns on the top of Kilimanjaro vary significantly. Wind and snowfall can vary from none to thrashing gales and deep snow.   Better to equip yourself for long cold nights.