Cheapest and Most Expensive Times To Visit Tanzania
Searching for the cheapest and most expensive times to visit Tanzania? This guide has you covered and will help you plan when to visit based on your travel budget.
Most Expensive Time to Visit Tanzania
The most expensive time to visit Tanzania is during the dry seasons and major migration events, when safari demand peaks and international tourists flock to the Serengeti, Zanzibar, and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Long Dry Season (June to October)
This is the best time for safaris, with animals congregating around water sources.
- Hotels and lodges in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire charge premium rates.
- Zanzibar’s beaches are busy and expensive.
Christmas & New Year (Late December to Early January)
Holidaymakers combine safaris with Zanzibar beach escapes.
- Hotels, lodges, and flights surge in price.
- Popular attractions book out months in advance.
Great Migration (June–July for river crossings, Sept–Oct for Mara River)
One of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles drives up safari prices.
- Safari lodges near migration routes are extremely expensive.
- Tour operators charge peak rates.
Short Dry Season (January to February)
A smaller dry period still sees strong safari demand.
- Hotels and lodges maintain higher pricing.
- Kilimanjaro climbing season is at its busiest.
Cheapest Time to Visit Tanzania
The cheapest time to visit Tanzania is during the rainy seasons, when fewer tourists come and accommodations drop rates significantly.
Long Rainy Season (March to May)
Heavy rains make some roads difficult, but tourism slows dramatically.
- Hotels and safari lodges slash prices.
- Landscapes are lush and green, though wildlife viewing is more challenging.
Short Rainy Season (November to Early December)
Brief rains deter some visitors, but travel is still possible.
- Hotels in both safari regions and Zanzibar offer discounts.
- Attractions are quieter before the holiday rush.
Late May to Early June (Just after the rains)
A shoulder season window offering excellent value.
- Prices are still low compared to peak months.
- Wildlife viewing improves as animals start moving toward water sources.
Price Summary Table for Tanzania Travel
| Time Period | Price Level | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| June – Oct (Long Dry) | 💲💲💲 Highest | Best safari conditions, Great Migration |
| Late Dec – Early Jan | 💲💲💲 Very High | Christmas & New Year, peak safari + Zanzibar |
| Jan – Feb (Short Dry) | 💲💲💲 High | Safari demand, Kilimanjaro climbing peak |
| March – May (Long Rains) | 💲 Lowest | Heavy rains, cheapest lodges & flights |
| Nov – Early Dec (Short Rains) | 💲 Low | Quieter season, affordable accommodations |
| Late May – Early June | 💲 Low–Mid | Post-rain shoulder, budget-friendly safaris |
How To Save Money When Visiting Tanzania?
When you go will most certainly make the difference in costs like flights, hotels, attractions, and food. Aligning your travel dates with Tanzania’s off-peak seasons can significantly cut expenses. Consider what experiences you hope to have and plan accordingly to make the most of lower prices and thinner crowds.
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