Dar es Salaam weather:
Dar es Salaam, the largest city in Tanzania and its commercial capital, is known for its warm and humid tropical climate. The city, located on the coast of the Indian Ocean, experiences a rainy season and a dry season, with temperatures remaining relatively consistent throughout the year. The weather in Dar es Salaam can be quite unpredictable, with sudden rainstorms and high humidity being common.
The rainy season in Dar es Salaam typically lasts from March to May, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in April. During this time, the city can receive up to 200mm of rain per month, which can cause flooding and travel disruptions. Despite the heavy rainfall, the temperature during this time remains relatively consistent, with daily high temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) and daily low temperatures averaging around 24°C (75°F).
The dry season in Dar es Salaam typically lasts from June to September, with the least amount of rainfall occurring in August. During this time, the city receives very little rainfall, with only around 20mm per month on average. The temperature during the dry season remains relatively consistent, with daily high temperatures averaging around 31°C (88°F) and daily low temperatures averaging around 24°C (75°F).
The rest of the year, from October to February, the city experiences a transitional period with moderate rainfall and temperatures. The daily high temperatures average around 29°C (84°F) and daily low temperatures average around 24°C (75°F)
| Month | Low (°C) | High (°C) | Low (°F) | High (°F) | Rain (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24 | 29 | 75 | 84 | 40 |
| February | 24 | 29 | 75 | 84 | 30 |
| March | 24 | 30 | 75 | 86 | 70 |
| April | 24 | 30 | 75 | 86 | 90 |
| May | 24 | 30 | 75 | 86 | 80 |
| June | 24 | 31 | 75 | 88 | 20 |
| July | 24 | 31 | 75 | 88 | 10 |
| August | 24 | 31 | 75 | 88 | 5 |
| September | 24 | 31 | 75 | 88 | 10 |
| October | 24 | 29 | 75 | 84 | 40 |
| November | 24 | 29 | 75 | 84 | 50 |
| December | 24 | 29 | 75 | 84 | 60 |
When it comes to deciding the best time of the year to visit Dar es Salaam, it ultimately depends on the type of experience you are looking for. If you are looking to avoid the heavy rainfall and potential travel disruptions, the dry season from June to September would be the best time to visit. The lack of rainfall during this time also makes it a great time for outdoor activities such as beach trips and safari excursions.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more authentic cultural experience and don’t mind dealing with potential rain disruptions, the rainy season from March to May may be the better option. During this time, the city comes alive with colorful markets, lively festivals and events, and a bustling atmosphere.
The transitional months of October to February may also be a good option for those looking for a balance between the two. The moderate rainfall during this time may not disrupt travel plans as much as the heavy rainfall during the rainy season, and the temperatures are still warm and pleasant.
It’s also worth noting that while the temperature remains consistent throughout the year, the humidity can be quite high in Dar es Salaam, especially during the rainy season. So, those who have difficulty with high humidity should keep this in mind when planning their trip.
In addition, the city’s location on the coast of the Indian Ocean means that it can also be affected by cyclones, with the peak season for cyclones being from March to May. While these are rare, it is still worth considering when planning your trip.
Overall, the best time to visit Dar es Salaam will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking to experience during your trip. Whether you choose to visit during the dry season for outdoor activities or the rainy season for a more authentic cultural experience, the city has much to offer year-round.
