Tanzania is one of Africa’s most breath-taking countries. With its diverse tourist offering the best time to visit this East African gem is right now.
We’ve rounded up the best events and activities in Tanzania for every type of tourist in every season.
Spring in Tanzania
If you’re someone who enjoys off-season adventures away from the throngs of tourists, then Spring is the season for you.
Considered the low season because of the rains, Spring is the best time to get good deals on accommodation.
The country celebrates Unification Day, one of its biggest holidays, in April and visitors can enjoy activities and parades in traditional attire in the main cities.
The two-day Mzalendo Halisi Music Festival takes place during May in northwest Dar es Salaam and features traditional Tanzanian music by locals
Summer in Tanzania
If you’re a lover of wildlife and don’t mind the hustle and bustle of peak season then a visit during the summer months will be right up your alley.
The rains subside in May and the migrations begin with most of the river crossings taking place in July.
If you’re looking for entertainment away from the wild the Zanzibar International Film Festival is typically held in July.
The four-day Mwaka Kogwa Festival is also held at the end of July and sees locals celebrating the Persian New Year with a ritualistic to settle last year’s arguments.
Autumn in Tanzania
Autumn in Tanzania is a birdwatching dream as bird migrations begin at the beginning of October. Autumn is also a great time for game drives as the herds spend most of their time at the Mara River through October.
This season also has something for the festival goers as the coastal town of Bagamoyo hosts the annual Bagamoyo Arts Festival every September. The festival features traditional and contemporary music and dance.
Winter in Tanzania
Winter is beach season in Zanzibar and while that may sound strange its true. Things heat up from November through February with temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius.
January sees the start of Wildebeest calving season and if you’re into wildlife you’ll get to see some of the hundreds of calves born each day.
The Sauti za Busara festival takes place in February bringing people together to celebrate African music.
Winter also sees the Wanyambo Festival taking place in January, with lots of traditional music, dance, costumes, and food.
Getting There
SAA flies into Dar es Salaam 10 times a week and you can rest assured that these flights offer the most direct nonstop route between South Africa and Tanzania.
