Weather in Lake Manyara National Park

To ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible, check out the current weather situation in Lake Manyara National Park. In this section, you will find up-to-date data, detailed charts, and a forecast for the near future.

Lake Manyara National Park is characterized by a mild tropical climate, providing comfortable conditions for safaris almost all year round. The temperature regime here is remarkably stable: there is usually no exhausting heat, and the average air temperature fluctuates smoothly from +19°C in the "coolest" months to +24°C at the height of the warm season.

Throughout the year, there is a clear distinction between the dry and wet seasons. The period from June to September is the classic dry season, when rainfall is virtually non-existent, and the air becomes fresher and drier. This time is considered one of the most favourable for visiting, as rains do not interfere with trips around the park. Conversely, April stands out as the wettest month, when rainy days occur very frequently (up to 24 days per month).

From November to March, the warmest weather settles in the park, with daytime temperatures often reaching +28°C. However, this period is also accompanied by precipitation: November, December, and January are characterized by frequent rains that revitalize the park's nature. Travellers should expect a mix of warm sunny days and regular tropical showers during this time of year.

Lake Manyara National Park features a mild and pleasant climate that allows for comfortable travel here at any time of the year. The warmest period, which can loosely be called the local summer, lasts from October to March. During these months, the average air temperature holds steady at 23–24°C. The peak heat usually occurs in February, when daytime highs reach a maximum of 28.9°C. At this time, you can expect warm, sometimes humid weather, which, however, is not exhausting.

With the onset of the dry season, which falls between June and August (calendar winter in the Southern Hemisphere), the temperature becomes cooler and fresher. June and July are the coldest months of the year with an average temperature of around 19.3–19.4°C. During this period, the air warms up to a comfortable 24°C during the day, and the absence of rain makes the weather ideal for long safaris, as there is no stuffiness or high humidity.

It is important for travellers to consider the significant daily temperature fluctuations characteristic of this region. The difference between the daytime maximum and the nighttime minimum averages about 10 degrees. For example, in the cool season (June–September), night and morning temperatures can drop to 14–16°C, while during the day it becomes summer-like warm. Therefore, for morning drives into the park, it is recommended to have warm clothing that can be removed by noon.

Precipitation in Lake Manyara National Park is distributed unevenly throughout the year, clearly delineating the boundaries of the dry and wet seasons. The driest period falls in the middle of the year: from June to September, rain here is a great rarity. During these months, the average precipitation level tends towards zero, and the number of days when even a drop might fall from the sky is only 2–3 for the entire month.

The main rainy season reaches its peak in April. This is the wettest month of the year, when precipitation can fall very frequently — statistics show up to 24 rainy days. During this period, roads may be washed out, but nature blooms, filling with vibrant colours and greenery.

A second, less intense wet period is observed at the beginning and end of the year. In December and January, it rains quite often (about 16 days a month), but this usually alternates with sunny weather. In other months, such as February, March, and May, the probability of precipitation remains at an average level, providing a balance between sunny and cloudy days.

A trip to Lake Manyara National Park requires a thoughtful approach to your wardrobe, as the weather here can change throughout the day. Since the average daytime temperature stays within comfortable limits from +19°C to +29°C, the principle of layering is the ideal choice. Bring light T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts made of natural breathable fabrics in neutral shades (khaki, beige) to protect yourself from the sun and avoid attracting insects. For morning safaris and evenings, especially from June to August when the night temperature drops to +15°C, be sure to grab a warm fleece sweater or a light jacket.

If you are planning a trip in April, May, or at the end of the year (November-December), when the number of rainy days increases significantly, a high-quality raincoat or waterproof windbreaker must be in your suitcase. In the dry season, lasting from June to October, precipitation is practically absent, but the sun in Tanzania is very active. Therefore, sunscreen with a high protection factor, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are mandatory accessories that will save you from overheating and bright light.

Pay special attention to footwear: it should be comfortable, closed-toe, and time-tested. Light trekking boots or sturdy sneakers are perfect for moving around the park and will protect your feet from dust and small stones. Do not forget to also take mosquito repellents and binoculars to examine the park's rich wildlife in detail without missing anything interesting.