When to Visit Tanzania

The best time to visit Tanzania depends entirely on your interests. For the Great Migration in the Serengeti, June to September is peak season. If you are looking for calving season (the birth of thousands of wildebeest), January and February are ideal. For the Southern Circuit (Selous and Ruaha), the dry months of late June to October provide the most concentrated wildlife viewing.

Seasons and Weather

Tanzania’s climate is tropical but varies by region. Arusha and the Northern Highlands are generally cooler than the humid coastal regions like Zanzibar.

• Dry Season (June - October): Best for safaris. The bush is thin, making it easier to spot animals, and they gather around water holes.
• Short Rains (November - December): Refreshing light showers that turn the landscape green.
• Long Rains (March - May): The "Green Season." While some remote lodges close, it is the best time for bird watching and lower travel rates.

Essential Travel Information

Preparation is key for a seamless luxury experience. Ensure you pack light-colored, breathable clothing (khaki or beige) for safaris to avoid attracting tsetse flies. We recommend high-SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a good pair of binoculars. Most high-end lodges provide Wi-Fi, but connectivity can be limited in deep bush areas.

Yellow Fever Details

A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is mandatory for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission (even if you only transited through an airport for more than 12 hours in such a country). This is strictly checked at entry points like Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Dar es Salaam.

Visa Information

Most visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania. We highly recommend applying for an Online E-Visa via the official Tanzania Immigration portal at least 2–3 weeks before travel. Standard tourist visas generally cost $50, while US Citizens are required to obtain a multiple-entry visa for $100. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after arrival.

Payments Information

While the local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), US Dollars are widely accepted in the tourism industry for safaris, hotels, and tipping. Note that US bills must be printed after 2006 to be accepted. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted in luxury establishments but often incur a 3% to 5% surcharge. We recommend carrying some cash for small purchases and tips for your guides.