What is the weather in Tanzania in September?
Tanzania is a year-round destination with September as one of the best seasons to visit as it has low rainfall and clear weather conditions along with excellent wildlife sightings. As the country stretches across East Africa, with diverse topographies including coastal areas and highlands, its weather varies by region. September weather gives tourists an opportunity to have well planned trips to visit Zanzibar beaches as well as the famous national parks on the safari.
General Climate in September
Tanzania has the dry season between June and October hence September falls in the dry season. This means that tourists may look forward to enjoying warm sunny weather with minimal rain conditions and high levels of humidity in the greater fields of the country.
Humidity levels are generally low compared to the rainy months, making the climate more comfortable for outdoor activities. Skies are mainly clear during this period and this is the best time of the year to carry outdoor activities and photographic expeditions.
Temperatures in September range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) depending upon the region. September is cooler but not too hot like during the later months, and therefore, offers the best of safari and beach vacation.
Weather by Region
Northern Safari Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara)
- Temperature: 59 °F (15°C) at night up to 28°C (82°F) during the day.
- Climate: Temperate and arid; extremely sunny and little rain. Evenings and early mornings can be cold, especially at higher altitudes, such as the Ngorongoro Crater.
- Highlights: In September, the Great Migration reaches its peak in the northern Serengeti, with massive herds gathering near and crossing the Mara River. This is one of the most dramatic moments of the migration.
Southern Safari Circuit (Selous, Ruaha, Mikumi)
- Temperature: 64 °F (18 °C) to 86 °F (30 °C).
- Conditions: Warmer than the north, but fine and not unpleasant. The vegetation is sparse and water sources scarce thus animals sharply identified along the rivers and waterholes
Coastal Areas & Zanzibar Archipelago
- Temperature:22°C (72°F) to 30°C (86°F).
- Conditions: Warm, humid, and breezy but mostly dry. It receives hardly any rain and the waters of Indian Ocean are tranquil with the most excellent conditions of swimming, diving, and snorkeling
- Highlights: Ideal visibility on diving and whale-watching trips in and around Zanzibar and Mafia Island.
Highlands (Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Usambara Mountains)
- Temperature: 10°C (50°F) at night to 23°C (73°F) during the day.
- Conditions: It’s nice and cool in the mornings and evenings and warm and lovely during the day. Ideal for mountaineering Mount Kilimanjaro or climbing the green Usambara Mountains.
Travel Tips for September
- Clothing: Travel light clothes in the daytime, although investments in some sweaters or jackets are necessary since mornings and evenings can be chilly, and jackets and sweaters are also mandatory in the highlands and the safaris.
- Safari Gear: This will necessitate neutral colour clothing, a wide hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
- Beachwear: The beach regions are more convenient with light material/fabrics and swimwear for ocean activities.
- Health: This is the dry season so dust may be an issue and a light scarf/ face covering may prove useful. And you can’t forget the insect repellent, at least when you are traveling somewhere near the water. Stay hydrated, as the dry air can cause dehydration.
Conclusion
Among the best months to go to Tanzania is September. The climate is arid, sunny, and the weather condition is quite moderate and offers excellent safari and beach experience. September provides near perfect traveling conditions as you would probably be able to observe the spectacle of the Great Migration, or you might attempt to climb Mount Kilimanjaro under clear skies, or you can also just enjoy the white sands of Zanzibar.