- Tanzania - East Africa
Best Time to Visit Arusha (2026): Expert Guide Aligned with TANAPA Standards
| 2026 Season | Months | Wildlife Probability | Avg. Temp | 2026 Strategic Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Dry | June – Oct | 95% (High) | 22°C | Best for Uhuru Peak summits. |
| Short Rains | Nov – Dec | 75% (Med) | 25°C | Migratory bird arrivals (450+ species). |
| Short Dry | Jan – Feb | 90% (High) | 27°C | Great Migration calving in South Serengeti. |
| Long Rains | March – May | 60% (Low) | 23°C | Low Season rates; no crowds. |
- Acclimatization Protocols: We mandate a 48-hour stay in Arusha before any Mount Meru or Kilimanjaro ascent to reduce AMS risk by 25%.
- Medical Equipment: All Olduvai Tours vehicles carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen. Guides are Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified.
- Mandatory Insurance: Visitors to Tanzania and Zanzibar must verify 2026 ZIC Insurance requirements ($44) before arrival.
- Arusha National Park: $50 USD (Adult) / $15 USD (Child)
- Serengeti National Park: $70 USD (Peak) / $60 USD (Low)
- Ngorongoro Crater Fee: $295 USD per vehicle, per descent.
- Kilimanjaro Conservation: $70 USD per day.
No. While the 1,400m altitude reduces mosquito activity, Malaria is present. Consult a healthcare professional regarding recommended prophylactic medications.
May and June. The “dust-free” air and “Green Season” lighting create vivid, high-contrast landscapes.
Yes, but TANAPA may close trails during heavy April rains for safety.
Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). We provide 45-minute private transfers to Arusha city center.
Mainstream lodges accept Visa/Mastercard (often with a 3-5% surcharge). Carry USD printed after 2006 for tips and local markets.
Verified by: Olduvai Tours Tanzania, Arusha Office (TALA License #12834).
Chat with our expert direct via email!
The Long Rains (March to May) – Low Season with Benefits
From March to May, Arusha experiences the long rainy season. This is considered the low season for tourism, but it comes with its own unique advantages.
Why Visit During the Long Rains?
Lowest Prices: Hotels and safari lodges often offer significant discounts, making this the most budget-friendly time to visit.
Dramatic Skies & Photography: The rains create spectacular skies with dramatic clouds, perfect for photographers.
Lush Vegetation: The scenery is at its most fertile and green.
Challenges of Visiting in the Long Rains
Heavy rainfall can make certain roads inaccessible, especially in remote safari destinations.
Some lodges may close during this period due to reduced demand.
Wildlife can be harder to spot as animals are spread out.
The Short Dry Season (January to February) – Great Balance
The period between January and February offers a short dry spell between the rains, and many travelers find this one of the best times to explore Arusha.
Why Visit in January and February?
Calving Season in the Serengeti: Thousands of wildebeest give birth in southern Serengeti, attracting predators and offering incredible wildlife action.
Warm, Pleasant Weather: Clear skies and sunny days make this season ideal for safaris and mountain trekking.
Good Safari Access: Roads are still manageable, and national parks remain open.
Things to Keep in Mind
Since it’s a popular time for safari enthusiasts, you may still encounter moderate crowds.
Best Time for Different Activities in Arusha
Depending on your interests, the best time to visit Arusha may vary:
1. Safari Adventures
Best Months: June to October, and January to February
Why: Wildlife viewing is easier, and events like the Great Migration and calving season make for unforgettable experiences.
2. Mount Kilimanjaro & Mount Meru Trekking
Best Months: January to February, and June to October
Why: Clear skies, low rainfall, and comfortable temperatures create ideal trekking conditions.
3. Cultural Experiences & Local Exploration
Best Months: Year-round
Why: Visiting local markets, coffee plantations, and Maasai villages can be enjoyed any time of the year, though the dry season offers easier transportation.
4. Birdwatching
Best Months: November to April
Why: Migratory species flock to Tanzania during the rainy season, joining the resident birds.
Month-by-Month Guide to Visiting Arusha
January – February: Warm and dry, great for calving season in the Serengeti.
March – May: Long rains, fewer tourists, discounted prices, lush landscapes.
June – October: Peak safari season, best wildlife sightings, dry and sunny.
November – Mid-December: Short rains, green scenery, good for birdwatching.
Late December: Festive season, busy with travelers, pleasant weather.
Tips for Choosing the Best Time to Visit Arusha
Plan Around Your Safari Goals: If witnessing the Great Migration is your priority, aim for June–July or August–September. For calving season, visit in January–February.
Book in Advance During Peak Season: June to October fills up quickly, so secure your safari lodges early.
Pack Smart: Even in dry months, mornings and evenings can be chilly. Bring layers, sunscreen, and insect repellent year-round.
Consider Your Budget: If you’re looking for more affordable options, March–May offers excellent deals despite the rains.
Stay Flexible: Weather patterns can shift slightly, so being open to a little rain or cool evenings will ensure you enjoy your trip no matter what.
Conclusion: When Is the Best Time to Visit Arusha?
The best time to visit Arusha ultimately depends on your travel style and priorities. If you want guaranteed wildlife sightings and dry conditions, June to October is ideal. For those who prefer fewer crowds, lush green landscapes, and lower prices, March to May or the short rains of November may be more appealing. If witnessing wildlife spectacles like calving or the Great Migration is on your bucket list, then January–February or August–September are unbeatable choices.
No matter when you go, Arusha promises a blend of rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. By planning your visit according to the season that best matches your interests, you can make the most of your adventure in Tanzania’s safari capital.
- Professional & Knowledgeable Local Guides: Our expert guides bring the landscapes to life with deep knowledge of local flora, fauna, and culture, many holding certifications like Wilderness First Responder.
- Deep-Rooted Passion: We are dedicated to showcasing the breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultures of East Africa.
- Authentic Cultural Insights: We offer opportunities to learn about the Maasai culture and local traditions, providing a truly authentic experience.
- Customized & Private Safaris: All safaris are fully private and customizable, allowing you to move at your own pace and enjoy a truly personal experience from Arusha to the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.
- Modern, Safe Vehicles: We use comfortable and safe 4×4 vehicles, often with pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing.
- Seamless Logistics: We offer seamless logistics, premium service, and genuine hospitality from start to finish.
- Varied Offerings: Our expertise spans wildlife safaris, mountain trekking (including Mount Meru), cultural excursions, and beach getaways in Zanzibar.
- Licensed Operators: We are a locally registered and fully licensed tour agency, adhering to local regulations.
- Ethical Practices: We adhere to ethical standards, including fair wages for staff, which is crucial for organizations like the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP).
- Sustainable Tourism: Our model ensures direct reinvestment into community conservation and sustainable tourism practices.
- Official Compliance: Our pricing is based strictly on official 2026 TANAPA fee schedules and we can guide you through required travel mandates like the ZIC insurance portal.
Our physical office is located in Arusha, Tanzania, allowing us on-the-ground expertise and support.
Yes, we offer budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodation options, including high-end lodges and tented camps.
We can help with planning logistics, though visas and travel insurance fees are usually separate personal expenses.
The nearby Olduvai Gorge is one of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites, the “Cradle of Humankind,” where early human fossils and tools were discovered. A visit to the museum is an optional, highly recommended stop on a Serengeti or Ngorongoro safari.
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