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Tanzania in August offers some of the best weather, wildlife viewing, hiking, and conditions for a beach holiday. It’s an ideal month to combine a safari with a trek up Mount Kilimanjaro or a relaxing tropical beach retreat on the Zanzibar archipelago.
August is the third month of the dry season in Tanzania, with pleasant temperatures and minimal chance of rain. The sparse vegetation in the drying landscape, combined with the wildlife congregating around remaining water sources, results in high concentrations of wildlife that are easier to see. In Serengeti National Park, witnessing the Mara River crossings during the wildebeest migration is possible.
August in Tanzania the high season, with peak prices and high visitor numbers, particularly on the Northern Circuit, so booking a year or at least six months in advance is recommended. Alternatively, consider a Southern Circuit safari to Ruaha National Park or Nyerere National Park to avoid the busy parks and experience an older Africa in vast wildernesses.
Weather in Tanzania in August
Tanzania, located near the equator, does not have distinct winter or summer seasons. Instead, it experiences two rainy and two dry seasons due to its tropical climate.
The primary dry season occurs from June to October and is characterised by pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. August is no different, and the weather is at its best during this month.
The five-month dry season results in less dense vegetation, while wildlife gathers near permanent water sources, making it an excellent period for wildlife viewing near rivers. Consequently, during a safari in Tanzania in August, you can expect optimal conditions for spotting an array of animals and birds.
The coastal areas have pleasant weather during August without excessive heat, making it an ideal period for a tropical beach retreat. Moreover, the extended dry period is perfect for trekking Mount Meru or Mount Kilimanjaro.
If your itinerary has a stop at a high-altitude destination in Tanzania in August, the weather, especially rainfall and temperature, can vary. Rainfall can occur unexpectedly, and temperatures can fall rapidly at night, leading to cold, chilly mornings.
Average temperature in Tanzania in August
Tanzania’s tropical climate results in consistently pleasant temperatures all year round. In August, afternoon temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F) depending on the specific location. Mornings can be chilly, so bringing a removable warm layer for early morning game drives is recommended. At higher altitudes, temperatures drop quickly after the sun has set, and frosts can occur regularly. Further down are some packing tips to help you prepare for a safari in August.
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Tanzania safari in August – is it the best time to go on safari?
Tanzania in August is an excellent safari destination, marking the halfway point of the dry season. It is a particularly challenging period for the large herds of the grassland plains. The drying landscape forces the grazing animals to stay close to the last remaining water sources, leading to a high concentration of animals and birds coming and going from rivers with a year-round flow. Moreover, the vegetation is less dense, which makes spotting the wildlife much easier. Consequently, game drives along river banks can result in rewarding wildlife-spotting experiences.
Where can you see the Great Migration in August?
At the beginning of the year, the wildebeest used the wide-open plains of the southern Serengeti National Park to give birth to their young. As the months passed, they moved northwest in search of fresh pasture. By August, the large herds of wildebeest start gathering in the northern part of the Serengeti, encountering a significant obstacle that many will not overcome: the Mara River. The river blocks their passage north into Kenya and must be crossed; otherwise, they risk starvation. Consequently, it is possible to witness the river crossings where numerous predators, including Nile Crocodiles, wait for an easy meal.
Locational highlights to see and do during August:
Wildlife viewing in Tanzania in August is exceptional, creating some highlights to choose from:
- At Tarangire National Park, one of Tanzania’s largest populations of elephants can be spotted moving backwards and forwards from the Tarangire River. Additionally, a mini wildebeest migration can be seen in the park at this time.
- Humpback whales migrate along the coast from August to September and can be seen from Pemba, Mafia, and Zanzibar islands.
- Intense evaporation at Lake Natron creates ideal conditions for algae to flourish, causing the large alkaline lake to turn red.
- At Nyerere National Park, you can observe a high concentration of predators and prey, including several big cats and rare hunters such as the African Wild Dog along the Rufiji River. Additionally, half of Tanzania’s elephant population resides in the park, so visitors are in for a real treat when it comes to seeing these majestic animals.
Since August is such an excellent time for a safari in Tanzania, you will encounter a higher number of other tourists in the most popular national parks on the Northern Circuit. For a more secluded safari experience, choose parks on the Southern or Western Circuit or travel to northern Tanzania in the low or shoulder season.
What is Zanzibar like in August?
August is the perfect month to conclude a safari with a few relaxing days on the pristine tropical beaches of the Zanzibar archipelago. The weather is great, with minimal chance of rain, low humidity, and comfortable temperatures. Consequently, you can enjoy touring Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or a spice tour.
Perfect weather conditions also allow for snorkelling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and a romantic trip on a traditional dhow to watch the sunset. Visiting the marine parks around the islands will allow you to see superb marine life, including turtles, dolphins, and even migrating humpback whales.
For extended stays on the Swahili Coast, you can explore Chumbe, Pemba, and Mafia islands. Finally, Tanzania-Experience can help you select world-class beachside accommodation – look forward to exceptional hospitality and seafood galore.
Is August a good time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best time to trek Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, from July to October. The consistently dry weather creates ideal weather conditions to trek to the summit of the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. Consequently, August is one of the best months to trek Mount Kilimanjaro.
To ascend the mountain, you can choose from four routes, which take six to seven days, depending on the selected route. You can partake in a private trek, where you can choose your dates and travel companions. Or you can opt for a group trek with a group size limited to ten people. With our own mountain team, you can rest assured that you’ll be in safe hands.
Consider trekking Mount Meru in August for those seeking a challenge with fewer people. The trek is as challenging as Mount Kilimanjaro but only takes four days to complete. Moreover, on day one of the ascent, you’ll be surrounded by wildlife in an ancient forest, giving you a unique experience like no other.
If you’re short on time but still want to experience what it’s like to trek Mount Kilimanjaro, you can take a one-day walk to the Shira Plateau. This plateau is Mount Kilimanjaro’s lowest and oldest peak, and you can also explore the beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, a World Heritage Site, at the same time.
Cost of visiting Tanzania in August – how much does a safari cost?
The dry season in Tanzania is a fantastic time for wildlife viewing, beach getaways, and trekking. Due to these ideal conditions, it is the peak season, with higher prices throughout Tanzania.
August is the third month of the dry season, so expect high season prices and limited availability for short-notice bookings. Consequently, it is important to book well in advance, especially if you wish to enjoy a wildebeest migration safari in the Serengeti National Park. A good rule of thumb is to book a year or at least six months in advance.
Our most popular safaris in Tanzania in August:
Impressive Tanzania
Places Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater
from 2,040 USD per person sharing
Tanzania and Kenya Highlights
Places Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, Lake Victoria, Masai Mara Game Reserve
from 5,320 USD per person sharing
If you prefer a more secluded experience during this busy month, consider a Southern Circuit safari to UNESCO-grade national parks with fewer visitors. Our overview of where to go provides more information about the southern parks. Since these parks are visited by far fewer people, you can also be luckier with last-minute bookings.
When considering the cost of a safari, you have several options. You can choose a private safari to customise every detail. Alternatively, you can share the cost of an intimate group safari limited to seven people plus guide. Either option guarantees you a window seat in one of our customised 4×4 vehicles driven by one of our exceptional guides. Self-driving safaris are not recommended in Tanzania due to unfamiliar driving styles and enormous parks that are hard to navigate in.
When deciding where to stay, you can choose from luxury lodges, permanent tented camps, and Mobile Explorer Camps for a deeper immersion into nature. Alternatively, Adventure Camping offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy a safari.
To plan your safari, you can speak with a country expert for a no-obligation conversation. Within a short period, you’ll receive the information you need to take the next step of booking your experience. One thing is guaranteed: if you plan your safari for August, you can expect an unforgettable experience in nature.
What to wear in Tanzania in August
If you book a safari with Tanzania Experience, you’ll receive a detailed packing list and other guides to help you prepare for your safari. Below, we share our main packing tips, which revolve around keeping your packing light, soft and simple.
- Pack soft, light-coloured clothing with long sleeves and trousers to protect from the sun and insect bites.
- While on safari, brightly coloured clothing, as well as camouflage, dark blue and black, should be avoided.
- Bring warm clothes to wear during early morning game drives.
- Pack hats and shades to protect from the sun.
- Wear closed shoes for game drives and sitting around the campfire at night.
- Pack your swimsuit for a refreshing swim in one of the many lodge pools.
- Pack something smart to enjoy a classic safari dinner.
- If Zanzibar is on your itinerary, pack clothes that can cover your shoulders and knees when visiting public places.
Is August a good time to visit Tanzania?
August is a fantastic time to visit Tanzania. The weather is excellent, creating superb conditions to enjoy the iconic national parks, mountains, and archipelagos with pristine beaches. The best way to make the most of these conditions is to combine a safari with a trek or to end a safari with a tropical beach retreat.
The Northern Safari Circuit is especially busy during this time due to the wildebeest migration reaching the northern Serengeti National Park. Therefore, it’s advisable to book as early as possible. If you prefer a less-travelled route, consider a secluded safari on the Southern or Western Safari Circuits.
To plan you safari, mountain climb or beach holiday, get in touch with our experienced travel experts!
Author: Colin Javens
