Best time to Travel to East Africa

Tanzania, Kenya, and Zanzibar (Month by Month Guide) 

January

• Kenya: A great time for game drives in the Maasai Mara and other parks as the dry season continues. Wildlife is easier to spot around water sources.
• Tanzania: Excellent for safaris in the Serengeti, especially to witness the calving season in the southern Serengeti.
• Zanzibar: Warm and sunny, perfect for beach vacations. Ideal for diving and snorkeling.

February

• Kenya: Hot and dry; prime safari conditions in Amboseli and Samburu. Perfect for birdwatching.
• Tanzania: The calving season continues, attracting predators in the Serengeti—an exciting time for action-packed wildlife viewing.
• Zanzibar: Beautiful beach weather with calm seas, making it ideal for water sports and relaxation.

March

• Kenya: The weather starts getting wetter as the long rains approach, but wildlife is still abundant.
• Tanzania: Early March is good for safaris, but the rainy season begins mid-month.
• Zanzibar: Humidity rises, and short rains may start. Beach activities are still enjoyable in early March.

April

• Kenya: The long rains dominate this month, making some roads impassable, but it’s a low-tourist season with lush landscapes.
• Tanzania: The rainy season makes it less ideal for safaris, but birdlife and lush vegetation appeal to certain travelers.
• Zanzibar: Rainy and humid; not the best time for beach vacations.

May

• Kenya: The rains continue, but this is the “green season,” offering stunning landscapes and fewer crowds.
• Tanzania: The Serengeti is lush, and the wildebeest migration begins moving north. A great time for budget travelers seeking solitude.
• Zanzibar: The wet season persists, but you may find great deals on accommodations.

June

• Kenya: The rains taper off, marking the start of the dry season. Perfect for wildlife safaris and the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara.
• Tanzania: Northern parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro are excellent for wildlife viewing. Cool and dry weather begins.
• Zanzibar: Clear skies and warm weather return, ideal for beach holidays and water activities.

July

• Kenya: Peak safari season begins. The Great Migration reaches the Maasai Mara, providing incredible wildlife encounters.
• Tanzania: Northern Circuit parks are in full swing, with wildlife congregating around water sources.
• Zanzibar: High season for beach vacations. Expect perfect weather for sunbathing, diving, and exploring.

August

• Kenya: The migration is in full swing, and river crossings in the Maasai Mara are a highlight.
• Tanzania: Northern parks are still at their best. Cooler temperatures make safaris comfortable.
• Zanzibar: Peak season continues with sunny days and cool breezes. It’s a busy but fantastic time for the beaches.

September

• Kenya: The dry season continues, and wildlife viewing remains spectacular in the Maasai Mara.
• Tanzania: The wildebeest migration moves toward northern Serengeti, providing excellent game drives.
• Zanzibar: Warm, sunny, and less crowded compared to July and August. Perfect for beachgoers.

October

• Kenya: The dry season transitions into short rains. Wildlife viewing is still excellent with fewer crowds.
• Tanzania: The migration begins heading back south to the Serengeti. The parks are green, and the short rains are mild.
• Zanzibar: A great month for beach holidays with warm weather and fewer tourists.

November

• Kenya: Short rains make it a quieter time for safaris, but it’s a good month for birdwatching.
• Tanzania: Short rains create lush landscapes, and parks are less crowded. The southern parks (Ruaha, Selous) are great to explore.
• Zanzibar: Rainy but still warm. Budget travelers might enjoy great deals.

December

• Kenya: The short rains end, and the festive season begins. Excellent safari opportunities and vibrant landscapes.
• Tanzania: The Serengeti welcomes the migration back to the south. Great for a safari and beach combo.
• Zanzibar: Perfect for beach vacations, with sunny skies and holiday vibes. A popular month for festive travelers.

Summary

• Best for Safaris (Kenya & Tanzania): June to October
• Best for Beaches (Zanzibar): January to March, June to October, December
• Budget-Friendly Travel: April, May, November

By combining safaris in Kenya or Tanzania with a beach holiday in Zanzibar, you can create a perfect African adventure tailored to your travel month!