Climate in Tanzania

Tanzania has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -61°C in the coldest regions to highs of 33°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 5mm in drier regions to 393mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 367cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain very cold, making Tanzania a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Tanzania vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The West is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 33°C and an annual average of 27°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Southwest, where winter lows drop to -61°C and an annual average of -54°C. This 81°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Tanzania they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 83°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Mbeya in the Mbeya Region averages 27°C annually, while Tunduma in the Songwe averages -54°C.

Tanzania sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 5mm to 393mm per year. The North receives the most rainfall, at approximately 393mm annually. The Southwest is the driest, with around 5mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The Northwest sees the most snowfall, with up to 367cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Travellers should pack rain gear when visiting wetter areas, while drier regions offer more favourable conditions throughout the year.