Weather in Dar es Salaam

Planning your day in Dar es Salaam or simply interested in the weather? Here you will find the latest information: current data, detailed forecasts, and visual charts to help you be prepared for any weather surprises.

Dar es Salaam, located in Tanzania, possesses a distinct tropical climate. The temperature here remains high and quite stable throughout the year, with average values ranging from 24.8°C in July to 28.3°C in February. This means that travellers can almost always expect warm weather, ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

Two main seasons can be distinguished in the climate of Dar es Salaam. The wetter period, often called the rainy season, falls during the months from March to May, with peak precipitation and the highest number of rainy days in April (11 mm of precipitation, 28 rainy days). Increased humidity and rainfall are also observed in November and December. The drier and relatively cooler season lasts from June to September, when precipitation is minimal and the number of rainy days decreases noticeably, creating comfortable conditions for active leisure.

Despite the presence of a rainy season, even in the wettest months, precipitation does not always fall continuously; often these are heavy but short-lived downpours. Overall, Dar es Salaam offers warm, sunny weather for most of the year, making it an attractive destination for tourists seeking an exotic getaway.

The temperature pattern in Dar es Salaam is characterised by consistently high figures all year round, which is typical for its tropical location. The annual range of average temperatures is small: from 24.8°C in July, the coolest month, to 28.3°C in February, which is considered the hottest. Maximum daytime temperatures throughout the year range from 27.4°C (in July) to 30.9°C (in February), while minimum nighttime temperatures range from 22.1°C (in August) to 25.7°C (in February).

The period that can be conditionally called "summer" based on maximum temperatures falls on the months from December to March. During this time, truly hot weather sets in Dar es Salaam. Average daily highs regularly reach 30-31°C (for example, 30.9°C in February), and nights remain very warm, with temperatures around 25-25.7°C. Given the increased rainfall in some of these months (for instance, in March, as well as in November and December, which precede this hot peak), the heat is often accompanied by high humidity, creating a sensation of tropical sultriness.

The "coolest" months, or the conditional "winter" in Dar es Salaam, are June, July, and August. During this period, average daytime temperatures decrease slightly, constituting a comfortable 27-28°C (for example, 27.4°C in July), while nighttime temperatures drop to a pleasant 22-23°C (for example, 22.1°C in August). Daily temperature fluctuations in the city are generally moderate, usually within 4-6°C. The most noticeable difference between day and night temperatures, reaching about 6°C, is observed precisely during this drier and "cooler" season, for example, in September (daytime maximum 28.6°C, nighttime minimum 22.6°C).

In Dar es Salaam, fairly clearly defined periods with varying amounts of precipitation are observed throughout the year, which allows for the distinction between a rainy season and a dry season. Snow is uncharacteristic for this tropical city; all precipitation falls as rain. The annual distribution of precipitation determines two main wet periods and one prolonged dry period.

The main rainy season in Dar es Salaam falls on the months from March to May. April stands out as the culmination of the rainy season, bringing an average of 11 mm of precipitation and the highest number of rainy days – about 28. Significant amounts of precipitation also fall in March and May (5 mm each), and it rains on average for 19 days in each of these months. During these periods, the rains can be quite intense but often take the form of heavy showers.

The rainy season is followed by a pronounced dry period, which lasts from June to September. During these months, the amount of precipitation is minimal – only about 1 mm on average per month. July stands out as the month with the fewest rainy days (about 9), although rain is also infrequent in June, August, and September (11-12 days). This time is considered the most comfortable for visiting the city in terms of weather.

In addition to the main rainy season, a second, less pronounced peak in precipitation is observed at the end of the year. In November and December, the amount of precipitation increases to 4 mm per month, and the number of rainy days reaches 22 and 24 respectively. January and October are also characterised by a moderate amount of precipitation (3 mm) and rainy days (17 and 15 respectively), making these months transitional between the dry and wet seasons.

When packing for Dar es Salaam, remember that a tropical climate with high temperatures year-round awaits you. The foundation of your wardrobe should be light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. T-shirts, shorts, skirts, light trousers, and sundresses will be appropriate in any season. Given the consistently high temperatures, even in the "coolest" months (June-August), the minimum temperature rarely drops below 22°C, so you are unlikely to need warm clothing, except perhaps for a light cardigan or stole for evening walks or air-conditioned rooms.

Special attention should be paid to periods of high humidity and rainfall. The main rainy season falls in March-May, with a peak in April (about 28 rainy days and 11 mm of precipitation), and an increase in precipitation is also observed in November-December (up to 24 rainy days). During these months, be sure to take a light raincoat or a compact umbrella. Quick-drying clothes will also be very handy. In the dry months (June-September), when rainfall is minimal, the focus shifts to sun protection: don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF cream. Regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are a must-have, as you will surely want to explore the city. Insect repellent may also come in handy, especially in the evening.

The principle of layering in Dar es Salaam is not as critical as in places with large temperature fluctuations; however, a light cover-up or a long-sleeved shirt can be useful not only for sun protection during the day but also for a little warmth in the evening if the wind picks up, or for visiting places that require more modest attire. The main thing is comfort and protection from the tropical sun and possible rains.