Tanzania
Best Time to Visit Arusha
Arusha, Tanzania's gateway to the Serengeti, offers year-round pleasant weather, but its tourist season is influenced by the region's dry and wet seasons. The best months to visit Arusha are during the dry season, from June to October, when the weather is dry and mild, and the crowds are manageable. However, the city's highlands receive a distinct rainy season from March to May, and November to December, making these periods less ideal for tourists.
✦ June to October is the best time to visit Arusha for pleasant weather and manageable crowds, making it ideal for exploring the surrounding national parks.
✅ Best months
June to October: the region's dry season brings clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it the best time to explore the nearby national parks.
🔥 Peak season
July: this is the peak tourist month due to the dry season, with schools on summer break in the UK and US, and international tourists flocking to the region. Expect higher hotel prices and more crowded national parks. The annual Mount Kilimanjaro Marathon takes place in July, drawing additional visitors.
💷 Shoulder (best value)
April and November: these shoulder months offer decent weather and fewer crowds, with a slight drop in hotel prices. Visit during these periods for a more relaxed experience and better deals.
🌙 Quietest & cheapest
March to May and December: these periods experience heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures, making it the quietest and cheapest time to visit. However, be prepared for muddy roads and some tourist attractions and hotels being closed.
Arusha season by season
Spring (Mar–May)
Weather: cool and rainy, average highs around 20°C (68°F)
Crowds: low
Road conditions may be poor due to rain
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Weather: dry and mild, average highs around 25°C (77°F)
Crowds: medium to high
Best time to visit national parks
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Weather: warm and dry, average highs around 25°C (77°F)
Crowds: medium
Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Weather: cool and rainy, average highs around 20°C (68°F)
Crowds: low
Rainy season, some attractions may be closed
🎭 Events worth timing a trip around
The Mount Kilimanjaro Marathon takes place in July, attracting runners and spectators alike. The Arusha International Film Festival, usually held in October, showcases African cinema and is worth timing a trip around.
🧳 What to pack
Pack layers for Arusha's cooler mornings and evenings, regardless of the season, as the temperature can drop significantly at night.
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Researched & reviewed by the TripSage editorial team · Updated July 2026.