Weather
Tanzania is a tropical country, and temperatures are pretty consistent year-round, at about 77°F–86°F (25°C–30°C) on 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. July falls early in the long dry season, and although this is sometimes referred to as Tanzania's winter, the temperatures are only slightly lower than they are during the wet season. Humidity is low, though, which makes outdoor activities more comfortable.
Crowds & Costs
July is the peak season for travel to Tanzania, thanks to the conditions being great for a wide range of activities and many travelers from the northern hemisphere having their summer vacations this month. Lodges and hotels around the national parks, the mountains, and the coast around Zanzibar will be fully open in July, but peak season prices will apply. 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. Wherever you go, book your accommodation as far in advance as possible to get your first choice for July travel.
Where to Go
For a classic East African safari experience, head to the Serengeti National Park in July, when the wildebeest migration is on the go. The Western Serengeti is the best destination at this time. You'll see other animals too, as 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. It doesn't have rhinos, but it does have all the other animals you'd see in the north, but fewer humans. You can see large prides of lions here and over 500 species of birds.
For a different kind of wildlife experience, head to Tanzania's smallest national park, the Gombe National Park, on the shore of Lake Tanganyika and not far from the border with Burundi. Famous British primatologist Jane Goodall studied chimpanzees here. The dry season is a great time to visit, and photographers (professional or amateur) can enjoy photographing the 100-plus chimpanzees who are quite used to humans. As well as chimps, you can also see blue monkeys, olive baboons, red colobus, red-tailed monkeys, and vervet monkeys.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
If you have a couple of weeks to spend in Tanzania, combine wildlife-spotting and safari activities with some time on the beaches of Zanzibar. The dry season is an excellent time to go because the skies are clear and conditions good for lounging on the archipelago's famously white sands.
For a more active adventure, July is a great month to climb Mount Kilimanjaro (19,340 ft/ 5,895 m) in the north of Tanzania. Climbs can take between five and 10 days, depending on the route. It's a great challenge for keen hikers and is not considered a technical climb—it's known as a "walk up," but that doesn't mean it's easy, and the altitude can pose some challenges. You'll be treated to incredible views across Tanzania and possibly into Kenya, as well as the chance to spot wildlife at lower altitudes and hike through varied vegetation and terrain.
For a slightly less demanding mountain climb, head to nearby Mount Meru (14,967 ft/ 4,562 m) instead. Its lower altitude makes it less challenging than Kilimanjaro.
Events in July
Zanzibar International Film Festival/ Festival of the Dhow Countries, Zanzibar. This two-week event is one of the biggest cultural events of its kind in East Africa. As well as the film festival component, a range of other cultural genres are on display.
Mwaka Kogwa, Zanzibar. This festival has its origins in the Persian/Zoroastrian new year. Singing, dancing, feasting, drumming, and rituals performed to bring good luck in the New Year can be seen.
Traveling to Tanzania in July? Check out these great itineraries
Wildlife & Cultural Adventures in Tanzania: Tarangire, Serengeti, Datoga Tribe - 12 Days. Start with a search for the "Big Five" animals in the quiet corners of Serengeti National Park and watch the annual Great Migration cross the white rapids of the Mara River. Then slow things down with a Maasai medicine walk and a traditional sunrise hunt with the Hadzabe Tribe.
Zanzibar & Pemba Island - 7 Days. Visit tropical paradise Zanzibar and enjoy the island's famed white-sand beaches and discover its rich culture and cuisine on tours of its historic center. Then, head to Pemba for a little snorkeling, fishing, and communing with nature.
More Helpful Information
Tanzania in June
Tanzania in August
Best Time of Year to Visit Tanzania
How Many Days to Spend in Tanzania