Tanzania Safari in August Overview
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.
If, like me, you’ve spent countless hours immersed in wildlife documentaries which showcase the natural wonder of the great wildebeest migration, there’s a high chance that witnessing this exhilarating spectacle is on your bucket list.
Weather in August
Tanzania is a tropical country, and temperatures are quite consistent year-round, averaging between 77°F and 86°F (25°C–30°C) in the lowlands and at the coast, and around 59°F–68°F (15°C–20°C) in the highlands. The most significant variables are altitude and rainfall. August is right in the middle of the long dry season. This is sometimes referred to as Tanzania’s winter, but really the temperatures are only slightly lower than they are during other times of the year. The low humidity further contributes to the month’s appeal for outdoor activities.
Crowds & Costs in August
August is the peak season for travel to Tanzania. Not only are the conditions great for a wide range of activities, but many travelers from Europe and North America are also taking their summer vacation. Lodges and hotels around the national parks, the mountains, and the coast around Zanzibar will be fully open in August, with peak season rates. Book accommodation early to get your first pick. The national parks in the north are the busiest, but to avoid the biggest crowds and highest prices, head to the parks in the south, such as the Ruaha National Park or the Selous Game Reserve.
Where to Go in August
You can’t beat the Serengeti National Park in August if you’re looking for a classic East African safari experience. The wildebeest migrate at this time, and you may see herds of wildebeests and zebras trying to cross the Mara River while staying out of the way of crocodiles. The Western Serengeti is the best destination at this time. The dry weather means vegetation is less thick, providing unobstructed views, and the animals tend to congregate around watering holes.
For a less crowded wildlife experience, check out the underrated Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania. Although it doesn’t have rhinos, it does have the other Big Five, as well as large prides of lions and hundreds of bird species. Bird enthusiasts will also want to check out Lake Natron in northern Tanzania. Not only are the mineral-rich waters a striking red color, but it’s a breeding ground for flamingos. You can see hundreds of thousands of the beautiful birds here in August. There are also great mountain views here and hiking trails.
What to Do in August
Many travelers like to combine a Tanzanian safari with time at the beach in Zanzibar. The dry season is an excellent time to go to this archipelago because the skies are clear and conditions good for lounging on the beautiful white beaches. August and September are also good months for diving because the waters are especially clear; a few months have passed since the wet season rains have churned up the sea. Wildlife enthusiasts can also witness turtle hatching on the Indian Ocean islands.
Active travelers may want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro (19,340 ft/ 5,895 m) or Mount Meru (14,967 ft/ 4,562 m) when the dry conditions make the climbing trails safer than in the wet season. Various routes can be accomplished, taking between four and 10 days. Both mountains are non-technical and are considered “walk ups.” However, the height of Kilimanjaro can be a challenge for some travelers, so don’t underestimate the climb’s difficulty. For a less challenging experience, opt for Meru, or choose a hike that stays at lower altitudes. Either way, you can enjoy incredible views across Tanzania and Kenya and the chance to spot wildlife at lower altitudes.
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.
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.