August is the heart of the dry season and a time of clear skies, crisp mornings, and spectacular wildlife gatherings. It’s one of the most popular months to visit, and for good reason. August offers everything from thrilling safaris and mountain treks to relaxing days on the beach.
Because water sources become scarce, animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making wildlife encounters frequent and unforgettable. The vegetation is sparse, giving you clear, open views of lions, elephants, giraffes, and so many more beautiful animals.
With dry weather, warm sunshine, and vibrant wildlife, August is a month where every part of Tanzania shines.
August is one of the best months to witness the famous Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti. Wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles face crocodile-filled waters in one of nature’s most powerful spectacles.
The great migration is a yearly trek of over 2 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, from Ndutu in the southern Serengeti to the Maasai Mara in southern Kenya and back. They follow the rains and thus cross the Mara River in search of fresh grazing grounds and water.
You can learn more about the migration here.
August is also an amazing month to spot resident birds like hornbills and brightly colored rollers. Tanzania is also home to 29 species of endemic birds. However, our August bird highlight would have to be the breeding flamingos in Lake Natron. From July to October, over 2.5 million lesser flamingos gather to breed on the exposed alkaline flats of the lake. These flats become exposed due to the intense evaporation during the long dry season. That also means that Natron is at its reddest during this period, offering an amazing backdrop for bird photography!
August is an amazing time to visit the islands! You can watch sea turtles hatching and making their way to the ocean for the first time, spot migrating humpback whales on their way to Antarctica, and snorkel with dolphins! The weather is also ideal for deep-sea fishing and kite- and windsurfing!
August offers dry trails and clear skies, which make for excellent mountain climbing conditions! If a week-long trek up Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t your cup of tea, you can still enjoy beautiful views with a day hike on Kili’s slopes.
Enjoy peaceful paddling with a canoe safari and experience excellent bird and hippo sightings in Lake Manyara or Arusha National Park. In August, the dry weather makes wildlife congregate around permanent water sources, making this an amazing and unique way to spot animals.
August is part of the long dry season (June-October). This means that the weather is dry and warm during the day and cool in the mornings and evenings. There is less humidity than in the rainy seasons, and there is a relatively strong southeastern wind.
The long dry season is in between the long rainy season (March-May) and the short rainy season (November-December). Tanzania also knows a short dry season (January-February).
The temperatures are cooler than in traditional winter months like December because Tanzania lies in the Southern Hemisphere. That means the seasons are reversed.
The low humidity and dry weather make for comfortable conditions for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, enjoying the ocean breeze on Zanzibar, and exploring the beautiful national parks with a safari.
The clear skies also make it one of the best months for photography and stargazing. The ocean is also clear, offering amazing visibility for diving and snorkeling.
Due to the warm, dry weather, the vegetation has dried. The short grasses and animals congregating around permanent water sources make spotting wildlife easier and more rewarding.
The park roads are in good condition and thus fully accessible due to the dry weather. The strong wind can cause dust storms, but, along the coast, this is amazing for kite- and windsurfing. This wind, known as the Kusi wind, is constant and great for both beginners and advanced sailors.
August is high season in Tanzania and one of the busiest months of the year due to the excellent weather and school holidays. Most lodges and camps are full, especially around the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, so book well in advance to get your top picks. We recommend booking a year in advance.
Prices for lodges are at their highest, but the quality of experiences and sightings makes it more than worth it. Flight tickets are also more expensive in the high seasons (June-October and December-February). Please keep in mind that park fees remain the same throughout the year.
August has cool but sunny weather. We recommend breathable clothing that can be layered and a thin jacket or sweater for the colder temperatures in the mornings and evenings. We also recommend bringing sun protection, like a hat, especially around the coast.
The dry landscapes in combination with the strong winds can cause dust clouds. We recommend packing a scarf to keep the dust out of your face during safaris.
August shows the very best of Tanzania. From the Mara River crossings in the Serengeti and breeding flamingos in Lake Natron to elephant herds in Tarangire and clear ocean waters on the coast, this is a month packed with unforgettable moments.
Whether you’re trekking Mount Kilimanjaro or relaxing during a sunset dhow cruise, August promises the adventure of a lifetime.
Do you have questions about a safari to Tanzania? We’re happy to help! From practical tips to activity recommendations. Below, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions to ensure a smooth and unforgettable journey.
If you can’t find your answer here, don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re here to assist you!
