Tanzania in October: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for October
Average temperature across Tanzania in October.
City Weather in October
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dar es Salaam | 31° | 21° | 62 mm | extreme | Warm |
| Mwanza | 28° | 19° | 84 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Dodoma | 30° | 17° | 3 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Zanzibar City | 30° | 21° | 78 mm | extreme | Warm |
| Arusha | 26° | 14° | 26 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Mbeya | 27° | 12° | 22 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Morogoro | 31° | 20° | 47 mm | extreme | Warm |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Northern Circuit (Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro)
October is the threshold of the short rains in parts of the north and on the coast - rain pattern is variable but you may see brief afternoon showers, especially later in the month. Vehicle transfers can be dustier between rains; wildlife is dispersed after the dry season, making some sightings more spread out but still rewarding. Kilimanjaro routes may see occasional storms so check forecasts ahead of summit attempts. Travelers should keep flexible itineraries and pack a lightweight waterproof shell.
Zanzibar & the East Coast (Stone Town, Nungwi, Mafia, Dar es Salaam)
October can bring the start of the short rains: expect occasional heavy showers and brief thunderstorms that can limit boat travel between Stone Town and archipelago islands. Visibility for diving and snorkeling can be patchy after storms and inter-island ferries may run on adjusted schedules. This is a good shoulder period to find deals if you can be flexible with dates. Lightweight waterproofs and flexible plans are recommended for island-hopping.
Lake Victoria & Northwest (Mwanza, Bukoba, Kagera)
October often begins to feel more humid as the short rains approach; expect occasional showers and increasing cloud cover in the afternoons. Boat crossings occasionally become choppy; plan extra time for ferries and inter-island transfers during squalls. The sudden green from early showers makes inland landscapes beautiful, but roads will start to show softer patches again. Pack a light waterproof and plan for some schedule flexibility.
Southern & Eastern Parks (Nyerere/Selous, Ruaha, Mikumi)
October is the lead-up to the short rains in the south and east: expect increasing heat and occasional thunderstorm buildups late in the month, particularly inland near Ruaha. Short, heavy showers can start appearing and make late-afternoon drives muddy, but many days remain clear for long game-viewing. This is a shoulder window where accommodation rates can be slightly lower. Pack sunblock and a light rain jacket for sudden storms.
Southern Highlands (Mbeya, Iringa, Rungwe, Lake Nyasa/Malawi border)
October is often hot in the lower valleys while high-elevation areas keep moderate temperatures; the first signs of the short rains may appear later in the month with occasional showers. Roads can become dusty between rains, and agricultural activity peaks with the changing season. This month is good for cross-border excursions to Lake Nyasa (Malawi) when water levels are stable. A light waterproof and sun protection are both useful.
Central Plateau & Dodoma Region (Dodoma, Singida, Tabora)
October often becomes more humid as the short rains approach; occasional afternoon storms begin to pop up, especially later in the month. Short, heavy showers can make dirt tracks soft and reduce visibility for dusty roads, so expect some variability in conditions. Vineyards around Dodoma thrive with moisture and rural scenery grows greener. Keep a light waterproof and be ready for intermittent delays on long transfers.