Why June, July and September Are the Best Time to Visit Tanzania
Tanzania is a land of extraordinary contrasts — snow-capped peaks, wild savannahs, tropical islands, and ancient cultures. While it’s a year-round destination, those in the know often aim for the months just before or after peak season to get the best of everything — and that means visiting during Tanzania’s shoulder months.
Cheapest Months to Travel to Tanzania
June, July, and September are especially ideal for safari-goers and beach lovers alike. They fall within Tanzania’s long dry season — but outside the absolute peak tourism squeeze. That means great weather, excellent wildlife visibility, and a bit more breathing room, whether you’re on the Serengeti or soaking up sun in Zanzibar.
When Is Tanzania’s Shoulder Season?
Tanzania’s main dry season runs from June to October, with peak tourist traffic hitting in July and August. But if you’re looking for that golden balance of favourable weather, rich wildlife viewing, and fewer crowds, June, early July, and September are standout months.
June marks the end of the long rains — parks are green, wildlife is active, and safari lodges are quieter than they’ll be later. July is when demand begins to climb sharply, especially around the Great Migration. By September, the crowds ease off slightly while conditions remain ideal.
Tanzania’s Best Shoulder Months
- June: Start of dry season. Fewer tourists, cooler mornings, lush landscapes, active wildlife.
- July: Edges into peak season. Excellent weather, high demand — early July still quieter th
Weather in Tanzania During Shoulder Season
Tanzania’s shoulder months fall within its long dry season — meaning low humidity, minimal rainfall, and cooler mornings that warm into sunny afternoons. In the northern safari regions (like Serengeti and Ngorongoro), June and July tend to be slightly cooler than September, but all three months offer top-tier wildlife visibility and comfortable conditions.
In Serengeti and central highlands, June temperatures range from 12 °C (54 °F) at night to 25 °C (77 °F) during the day. July remains similar, while September nudges slightly warmer. Coastal areas and Zanzibar are more humid, with highs between 28–30 °C (82–86 °F), but breezes off the ocean keep it pleasant.
Rainfall is rare in all three months, and skies are mostly clear — making it ideal not only for safaris but also for photography, stargazing, and beach days.
Quick Weather Overview (Main Regions)
- Serengeti & Ngorongoro: June/July: 12–25 °C, dry and crisp; September: 14–28 °C, dry and warm.
- Zanzibar & Coast: June: 28 °C and dry; July/Sept: 29–30 °C, breezy with occasional cloud cover.
With consistently good weather across both mainland and islands, these months are reliable for planning — you can safely expect clear days and excellent game-viewing visibility.
What to Pack for Tanzania in June, July and September
Packing for Tanzania’s shoulder season means preparing for cool mornings, warm days, and the contrast between bush and beach. Layering is key — especially for sunrise safaris — and breathable fabrics help in the hotter coastal zones.
Packing Tips for Shoulder Season Travel
- Neutral layers: Long sleeves and light jumpers for early game drives, with T-shirts underneath.
- Warm jacket: It can get surprisingly cold in the crater or Serengeti early mornings (especially in June/July).
- Sun gear: A wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and SPF are must-haves, even when it's cool.
- Shoes: Comfortable, closed walking shoes for game drives or light hikes; sandals for the coast.
- Beachwear: If visiting Zanzibar, pack swimwear, flip flops, and light linen for tropical temps.
- Bug spray: Mosquitoes are less of an issue in dry season, but repellent is still useful in coastal areas.
Most lodges offer laundry services, so you don’t need to overpack. But do bring any medication or supplies you may need — pharmacies in rural areas can be limited.
Shoulder Season Costs and Crowds in Tanzania
Travel costs in Tanzania vary quite a bit depending on the time of year — and knowing when to go can make a major difference in your budget. June, July, and September all sit in the dry season, but June and September tend to offer better value, while July marks the beginning of peak tourism pricing.
During June, many safari lodges still offer shoulder season rates — it's dry, beautiful, and less busy. July sees a spike in prices, especially in areas like the Serengeti, where the Great Migration river crossings begin. By September, pricing often eases again, even though conditions are just as ideal.
Cost Comparison by Month (Safari + Zanzibar)
- June: Good deals on accommodation and flights. Safari prices are lower than peak, and Zanzibar resorts often offer early dry-season promotions.
- July: Peak pricing kicks in — highest costs for safaris, with limited availability at top camps. Zanzibar also becomes pricier and busier.
- September: Still dry and beautiful, but with slightly lower prices and fewer tourists than July and August.
If you're watching your budget but still want prime conditions, June and September are your best bets. July is stunning, but expect to pay a premium — especially if you haven’t booked far in advance.
Crowds and Safari Availability
Tanzania’s national parks see a big jump in tourism from late June through August. Game drive traffic increases, lodges book out early, and major wildlife events (like the Mara River crossings) attract global attention. That’s not to say it’s overrun — Tanzania isn’t like some ultra-busy destinations — but you will notice the difference.
June offers a quieter experience: wildlife is still abundant, guides and camps are more available, and there’s less competition for viewpoints. July is much busier, especially in the Northern Circuit. September finds a better rhythm again — with plenty of wildlife, great visibility, and a calmer vibe across both safari and beach destinations.
Best Months by Crowd Level
- Least crowded: June
- Peak season bustle: July
- Balanced sweet spot: September
Tanzania Shoulder Season Cheat Sheet
| Month | Avg High / Low (°C) | Rainfall | Crowds | Typical Safari Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June | 26 °C / 14 °C | Low | Low to moderate | $$ (shoulder rates) |
| July | 27 °C / 14 °C | Very low | High | $$$ (peak pricing) |
| September | 28 °C / 15 °C | Very low | Moderate | $$ (easing from peak) |
Data: Temperatures reflect conditions in central northern parks (e.g. Serengeti, Tarangire). Coastal areas like Zanzibar are several degrees warmer year-round. Rainfall is lowest June–September. Safari prices rise in July–August due to demand, then ease again in September. Booking early is strongly recommended for July.
Insider Tips and Seasonal Highlights for Tanzania Travel
Whether you’re heading to the Serengeti, climbing Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on Zanzibar’s shores, shoulder season gives you space to explore at your own pace. Here are a few tried-and-tested travel tips — plus a look at what makes June, July, and September special in Tanzania.
Tanzania Shoulder Season Travel Tips
- Book safaris in advance: Even June and September can fill quickly at popular lodges — book 3–6 months ahead if you’re set on specific camps.
- Fly into Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport: These are the most convenient gateways for northern circuit safaris — better than connecting through Dar es Salaam if heading inland.
- Pack for cool mornings: Yes, it’s Africa — but you’ll want a fleece or jacket for early drives, especially in June or on the crater rim.
- Mix safari + beach: A classic Tanzania combo — try 5–7 days inland, then fly to Zanzibar or Pemba to relax before heading home.
- Look out for park fees: Tanzania’s park entry costs are separate from safari packages, so factor in daily fees (e.g. $70/day for Serengeti).
Seasonal Highlights by Month
What Makes Each Month Special
- June: End of green season — landscapes are lush and photogenic, while animals begin clustering near water sources.
- July: Start of the Great Migration river crossings in northern Serengeti — one of nature’s most jaw-dropping spectacles.
- September: Peak visibility for predators and prey as grass thins; also a great month for diving and snorkelling in Zanzibar.
You don’t need to chase the most crowded migration moments to have an unforgettable safari — shoulder season delivers plenty of wildlife action, stunning scenery, and far more peaceful sundowners.
Final Thoughts: Is Shoulder Season the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?
For many travellers, June, July, and September hit the sweet spot — excellent weather, incredible wildlife, and just enough breathing room from the busiest crowds. Whether you’re heading out on your first safari or returning for a deeper adventure, Tanzania in shoulder season delivers all the magic without the stress.
From misty crater mornings to golden savannah sunsets and warm Indian Ocean breezes, these months offer exactly what most of us are after: wild beauty, great visibility, and space to enjoy it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tanzania a good place to visit in June?
Yes — June is one of the best months to visit Tanzania. It marks the start of the long dry season, so conditions are great for safaris and warm enough for Zanzibar beach trips, all with fewer crowds.
Is July high season in Tanzania?
July is the start of peak season, especially in the northern safari circuit when the Great Migration is under way. Prices rise and availability is tighter, but early July is still calmer than August.
Is September a good month for safari in Tanzania?
Absolutely. September is dry with superb visibility, crowds ease off after the August peak, and wildlife gathers around water sources – perfect for dramatic sightings.