Tanzania

Tanzania Weather & Climate: Monthly Averages

Monthly climate averages for Tanzania, temperatures, rainfall and the best time to visit.

Climate overview of Tanzania

Just south of the equator, Tanzania has, with the exception of certain areas, a tropical savanna climate influenced by the Indian Ocean. However, there are regional differences; the coast has a tropical climate, while Mount Kilimanjaro can experience freezing temperatures. The coolest months occur during the northern hemisphere's summer (June - September). However, the weather remains pleasant and comfortable year-round. From June to October, temperatures range from around 10°C (50°F) in the northern highlands to about 23°C (73°F) on the coast.

Rainy and Dry Seasons

The main rainy season, known as the "long rains," occurs from March to May. The long dry season lasts throughout June, July, August, September, and October, when rainfall is rare, even on the islands. Another rainy season, the "short rains," takes place in November and December. These are much lighter and less consistent compared to the long rains.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

The relatively cool and dry period from June to October and the hot, dry period from December to February are considered the most favorable travel periods. However, since weather conditions vary by region, it is advisable to check the specific areas you plan to visit.

Explore Tanzania by month

Popular cities by month

Compare cities per month. Toggle cities on/off.

Dar es Salaam Zanzibar City Nungwi Moshi Mto wa Mbu Mwanza
Day temperature (°C)
Monthly rainfall (mm)

Climate map

Average daily temperature, monthly rainfall & sunshine hours across cities.

Avg day temp (°C)
32°

Regional climate differences

Explore the climate diversity across Tanzania.

Compare popular cities

Average daytime and nighttime temperatures, yearly rainfall and sunshine.

Dar es Salaam 29°C (84°F) 32°C (90°F) 21°C (70°F) 25°C (77°F) 1112 mm (44 in) 2,782 hours
Zanzibar City 28°C (82°F) 31°C (88°F) 23°C (73°F) 27°C (81°F) 1079 mm (42 in)
Nungwi 27°C (81°F) 30°C (86°F) 24°C (75°F) 27°C (81°F) 1244 mm (49 in)
Moshi 23°C (73°F) 29°C (84°F) 13°C (55°F) 18°C (64°F) 1601 mm (63 in)
Mto wa Mbu 25°C (77°F) 31°C (88°F) 14°C (57°F) 19°C (66°F) 821 mm (32 in)
Mwanza 26°C (79°F) 28°C (82°F) 20°C (68°F) 22°C (72°F) 1725 mm (68 in) 2,934 hours

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Tanzania?

The warmest month in Kwangwazi is January, with daytime highs of 35°C (95°F). Tabora is the sunniest destination, with 329 hours of sunshine in July. Tanzania has a distinct dry season from June to October. Explore Tanzania weather by month for a detailed breakdown.

What temperatures can I expect in Tanzania?

Kwangwazi is the warmest destination, reaching 35°C (95°F) in January with nights around 25°C (77°F). Mount Kilimanjaro is the coolest, with July daytime highs of just 20°C (68°F) and nights dropping to 10°C (50°F). Temperatures are relatively stable throughout the year. See the city comparison for a full overview.

How much rain does Tanzania get?

Rainfall varies across Tanzania. Matema Beach is the wettest, receiving 3604 mm (142 in) per year, with March the wettest month at 682 mm (27 in). Ruaha National Park is the driest at 627 mm (25 in) per year. Use the climate map to explore rainfall patterns across regions.

How sunny is Tanzania?

Tabora is the sunniest destination in Tanzania, enjoying 3,142 hours of sunshine per year, with July the brightest month at 329 hours. Overall, Tanzania enjoys abundant sunshine year-round. Compare sunshine across cities in the charts above.

What is the climate like across Tanzania?

Dar es Salaam has very warm summers reaching 32°C (90°F) in February and warm winters dropping to 29°C (84°F), with 2,782 hours of sunshine and 1112 mm (44 in) of rain per year. Zanzibar City has very warm summers reaching 31°C (88°F) in March and warm winters dropping to 28°C (82°F), with 0 hours of sunshine and 1079 mm (42 in) of rain per year. Nungwi has warm summers reaching 30°C (86°F) in March and warm winters dropping to 27°C (81°F), with 0 hours of sunshine and 1244 mm (49 in) of rain per year. Explore the climate charts and comparison table for more cities.

Places in Tanzania

Select a city to see its average temperature, precipitation and hours of sunshine over the year.

Islands

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Travel inspiration

Must-visit destinations and experiences across Tanzania.