February 18, 2026
Best Time to Visit Arusha
Arusha's climate follows two dry seasons and two wetter ones — and safari timing further north affects when the city itself gets busiest.
Arusha sits at altitude, so it's cooler than the Tanzanian coast year-round. Broadly, the region has a long dry season from June to October, a short dry spell in January and February, and wetter periods in between.
June to October — the long dry season
This is the busiest safari period, coinciding with the wildebeest migration moving through the northern Serengeti. Expect Arusha to be busier as a stopover city, and it's worth booking accommodation and safari plans well ahead.
January and February — the short dry season
A quieter, drier window that overlaps with calving season in the southern Serengeti — a good option for travellers who prefer fewer crowds.
March to May — the long rains
The wettest months, with lower safari traffic through Arusha and typically better accommodation availability and rates for longer stays.