Tanzania
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Tanzania
Tanzania is situated in Eastern Africa along the Indian Ocean, between Mozambique and Kenya, and includes the island of Zanzibar. The country is known for its wildlife, friendly people, and stunning beaches. Tourists often visit Tanzania for one of four main experiences: a relaxing seaside vacation on the picturesque island paradise of Zanzibar, an underwater tour of some of the world’s most renowned diving sites around the beautiful Spice Islands, a safari adventure in some of Africa’s most impressive game reserves, or a hiking excursion around Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.
Tanzania is home to 20% of Africa’s large mammal population and is best known for the Serengeti National Park, the country’s second-largest national park. The park is famous for the big migration of giant herds of grazers across Northern Tanzania and Kenya
Tanzania also boasts the largest intact caldera in the world – The Ngorongoro Crater. The Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the extensive highland area with the famous 600m deep Ngorongoro Crater as its focal point. The ancient caldera shelters are nearly three million years old and are considered one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on earth.
The most popular attractions in the country include Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa’s highest peak), Serengeti National Park, Mahale National Park, Zanzibar beaches, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park, Mafia Island, Pemba Island, Selous Game Reserve, and Lake Victoria.
Climate
From June to October the dry season receives very little rainfall with low humidity. It does get cooler at night, so it’s important to pack warm clothing, especially for morning game drives in open vehicles, particularly in the northern parks. Afternoon temperatures usually range between 20°C and 30°C but vary significantly based on altitude and location. Most of the days are characterised by clear skies and sunny weather.
June and July are the best months to witness the wildebeest migration, while August – September is the optimal time to observe the wildebeest river crossings in northern Serengeti. During this time, animals are more concentrated around waterholes and rivers, making them easier to spot. Additionally, there are fewer mosquitoes due to the lack of rainfall, and the weather is consistently clear and sunny.
In the wet months of November – May the temperatures are consistently hot in the afternoons (a bit above or below 30°C), but they are colder above 1,300m. One can expect cold mornings in the northern parks due to the high altitude. January and February mark the calving season in the southern Serengeti and is an excellent time to observe predator action. The scenery is lush and green during this time, and it’s considered the low season, leading to lower rates and less crowded parks. Even though spotting wildlife is easier in the dry season, it’s still plentiful, especially in the northern circuit parks. Migratory birds are present, making it the best time for bird watching. March, April, and May, rains are typically short afternoon showers that rarely interfere with your trip.
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Climate
June to October – Dry season: There is very little rainfall during this period and humidity is very low. It cools off at night; be sure to pack warm clothing because morning game drives in open vehicles will be cold, especially in the northern parks. Afternoon temperatures are usually between 20°C and 30°C and vary greatly according to altitude and location. Most days have a fine, clear sky and sunny weather.
June and July are the best months to see the wildebeest migration. August to September is the best time to see the wildebeest river crossings in northern Serengeti. Animals are easier to spot since they concentrate around waterholes and rivers. There are fewer mosquitoes because there is little to no rain. Skies are clear and most days are sunny.
November to May – Wet season: During most of the Wet season, afternoon temperatures are consistently hot (a bit above or below 30°C) but it is colder above 1,300m. Mornings are cold in most northern parks due to the high altitude. January-February is the time to see the calving in the southern Serengeti, and an excellent time to see predator action. The scenery is green and beautiful; it’s low season, meaning lower rates and less crowded parks. Although wildlife is easier to spot in the Dry season, you’ll still see plenty, especially in the northern circuit parks. Migratory birds are present, and bird watching is at its best. Except for March, April and May, rains are mostly short afternoon showers and seldom interfere on your trip.