Weather in Kigoma

Planning your day or an entire journey? Stay up to date with the current meteorological conditions in Kigoma by checking the latest reports and forecasts below.

The climate of Kigoma is distinguished by enviable stability and a mild tropical character. Thanks to its proximity to the equator and Lake Tanganyika, there are no sharp temperature fluctuations here: the air warms up evenly to an average of +24…+26 °C throughout the year, creating a comfortable atmosphere without exhausting heat or sudden cold spells.

Seasonality is clearly evident in the weather calendar, depending on the amount of precipitation. From June to September, the dry season reigns in the region: during this time, rains cease almost completely, and the number of sunny days is at its maximum. This is the most popular period for those who prefer clear skies and dry weather for walks and relaxation.

From November to May comes the rainy season, the peak of which falls on December and January. During these months, the number of wet days increases significantly, reaching 25–30 days per month. However, even during this period, a trip to Tanzania can be pleasant: the rains bring freshness, and the surrounding nature blooms with bright colours.

Due to its proximity to the equator, Kigoma is characterized by remarkably stable temperature patterns. There is practically no sharp division into cold and hot seasons here: throughout the year, the thermometer stays in a very comfortable range. According to statistics, the warmest month is September, when the average temperature rises to +26.1°C, and daily maximums can reach +28.3°C. December can be called the "coolest" period, although the word "cold" is hardly appropriate here — average values are around +24°C.

The conditional winter, which in the Southern Hemisphere falls on the months from June to August, is felt in this region of Tanzania as a magnificent, mild summer. During this time, dry weather sets in with pleasant temperatures of around +24.6...+25.4°C. The absence of rain makes the heat easily bearable. The summer period (from December to February) brings high humidity, while the air temperature remains practically the same as in winter, or even slightly lower due to dense cloud cover.

A characteristic feature of the local climate is the minimal temperature difference between day and night. Judging by the data, the difference between average minimums and maximums is only 3–4 degrees. Even on the freshest nights of July or December, the air does not cool below +22°C. This means that evenings here are invariably warm, and you will hardly require warm clothing for walks by Lake Tanganyika.

The climate in this region has pronounced seasonality, which is important to consider when planning your journey. Kigoma is characterized by a clear division of the year into a dry period and a rainy season. If your goal is to avoid precipitation and enjoy sunny days, it is best to plan your trip for the summer: June, July, and August are the driest months, when rains cease almost completely, and the number of wet days is reduced to a minimum.

With the arrival of autumn, the situation changes, and the amount of precipitation begins to gradually increase. The main rainy season falls on the period from November to May. The "wettest" months in terms of precipitation frequency are considered to be December and January, when it can rain almost daily (up to 30 days a month). The peak in terms of moisture volume is usually observed in April. At this time, tourists are advised to have reliable rain protection with them, as the weather can be changeable.

When preparing for your journey, it is worth noting that Kigoma features a warm and stable climate throughout the year. The basis of your wardrobe should be items made of light, breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, which will help you tolerate high humidity more easily. Since the average air temperature stays around +24...+26 °C, you will need t-shirts, shorts, and summer trousers. However, for evening walks by Lake Tanganyika, it would not be amiss to bring a light sweater or windbreaker to feel more comfortable in the fresh breeze.

The choice of accessories largely depends on the season. If your trip to the country of Tanzania falls on the period from June to September, dry and sunny weather awaits you: be sure to take sunscreen with a high protection factor, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. During the rest of the year, especially from November to May, the number of rainy days increases significantly. During this period, a compact umbrella and a waterproof raincoat or poncho, which fit easily into a backpack, will become indispensable companions.

For excursions and active leisure, pay special attention to footwear: it should be comfortable, closed, and have non-slip soles, for example, light trekking boots or trainers. Given the proximity of the water body and the tropical climate, be sure to put high-quality insect repellents in your first aid kit. The principle of layering in clothing will help you quickly adapt to weather changes, whether it is a sudden tropical downpour or the sun coming out after the rain.