What is the coldest month in Dar es Salaam?
The coldest month in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania is July. Dar es Salaam is located on the coast of the Indian Ocean and has a tropical climate. The temperatures are generally high throughout the year with average temperatures being between 23°C (73°F) and 32°C (90°F). The city is never truly cold, but some seasons are slightly cooler than others.
Why July is the Coldest Month
July is in the middle of the dry season in Tanzania (June to October). Rainfall is minimal during this season, the skies are clear and the humidity is also lower than it is in rainy months. Temperatures on coastlines are also lowered by the entry of cool winds in the southern hemisphere winter.
Consequently, the months of July and August are deemed the most pleasant and cool months of the year. The yearly average of high temperatures reaches approximately 28°C (82°F), and the lows are 19°C (66°F) in Dar es Salaam. To people who come here to travel, it might not be that warm; it will still be warm to people coming in from colder areas, but it is definitely cooler and more relaxing than the hot and humid months.
Comparison with Other Months
- Hot Season (November–February): Temperatures reach levels as high as 33°C (91°F) with great humidity, such that it may actually feel warmer.
- Rainy Season (March–May): Rainfall is heavy, it is humid and hot, averaging 30°C (86°F).
- Dry Season (June–October): Mild and pleasant, with July and August as the coolest months
This makes July stand out as the most refreshing time, especially for outdoor activities such as exploring city markets, strolling along the waterfront, or taking boat trips to nearby islands.
What to Expect in July
Weather Conditions
- Clear, dry days with scarcely any rain.
- Evenings are cool, especially near the ocean
- Gentle sea breezes as a result of which the weather conditions are quite comfortable in the open air.
Travel Experience
- Perfect to see the city without feeling burned.
- An excellent month to go swimming, snorkeling, or sailing, since ocean conditions are calm
- Dar es Salaam connections to southern parks (Selous, Mikumi and Ruaha) are superb because of dry-season wildlife-watching.
Because it is peak season, advance booking for accommodations and tours is highly recommended.
Packing Tips
- The daytime: Cooling light cotton clothes.
- Nights: It is better to pack a lighter sweater or jacket in case your nights will be cold particularly by the coast.
- Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat upon a signal UV exposure.
- Health: Insect repellent is mandatory, because there are mosquitoes and risk of malaria. Bring some sort of light face wrapping to help one cover their face in dusty regions
- Extras: Water bottle to carry with you to keep hydrated in the arid weather.
Dar es Salaam does not experience any really cold weather, but July is the coolest month with average low temperatures of 19°C (66°F), and an average high of 28°C (82°F). It is one of the most comfortable months to visit as a traveler with cooler night temperatures, sunny days, and ideal vacation time to visit the city and relax at the beach.