Tanzania: Climate and Weather

Climate Overview

Tanzania has two quite distinct climate zones: the inland highlands on one side and the coastline with its islands on the other.

The eastern coast and nearby islands like Zanzibar enjoy a very hot and humid equatorial climate year-round, which sea breezes struggle to alleviate. There is occasional rainfall in November–December (the "short rainy season") and especially from March to May (the "long rainy season"), with much heavier and sustained downpours. This is also when temperatures are at their highest.

In the inland highlands, the climate is tropical and temperate. Days are hot and dry but not stifling, and this holds true throughout the year. However, temperatures can drop significantly at night. As expected, temperatures also vary with altitude, to the point that the summit of Kilimanjaro sees snowfall at the start of the year, and nights there are freezing in July–August.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Generally, the dry season is the ideal time to visit Tanzania, from June to October. Temperatures are more pleasant, and wildlife is easier to spot near rivers and water sources. As for Kilimanjaro, while the climb can be done year-round, the periods from mid-January to March and July to October are best, as they are less rainy and skies are clearer.

★★★: very favorable | ★★: favorable | ★: moderately favorable | ⊘: unfavorable.

Sea Temperature Throughout the Year

As expected, the water temperature is pleasant year-round.

Climate and Weather by Region

The Coast (Dar es Salaam)

The climate is very hot and humid all year, with December–March being the hottest period. The coast experiences two rainy seasons: from March to early May and during November and December.

Zanzibar

Essentially the same climate as Dar es Salaam and the coast. Heat and humidity are also oppressive, except during the dry season from June to September, when trade winds blow. The rainy season follows a similar pattern.

The Interior (Dodoma)

The climate is very hot, but the heat is not overwhelming. The first three months of the year are the hottest, and April is the wettest month.

Kilimanjaro

Altitude directly influences the climate on Kilimanjaro. At lower elevations, it is very hot and humid. At mid-altitude, temperatures drop but remain pleasant, with drier conditions. Near the summit, temperatures plummet and can easily reach negative values.

Additional Information