Tanzania in January: Herds on the Southern Plains, Kilimanjaro Clear Spells and Hot Beaches

The short rains of November and December have turned the southern plains green, and wildebeest and zebra concentrate around Ndutu and the southern Serengeti to feed. Calving begins late in the month for many herds, and the first predators follow the movement.

This guide treats January as a month of anticipation: where the animals are, how conditions on the mountain and the coast compare, and how to make the most of the days between the holidays and the main calving weeks.

This guide is part of our Uganda month-by-month and seasonal guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Weather and Mood

January is warm to hot at lower altitudes, and noticeably humid on the coast. On safari, days are bright with clouds building in the afternoon, and brief showers are possible, because the short dry spell is not a true dry season. The plains are green, the light is soft and bird life is rich with migrants present. Mornings are cool on the Ngorongoro rim, and nights at altitude need a jacket. After New Year the atmosphere relaxes, and the second half of the month usually feels spacious. See the Tanzania best time guide for the annual cycle.

Ndutu and the Southern Serengeti

The herds spend this period on the nutritious short-grass plains in the south, in the area around Ndutu and the southern Serengeti. January sees large concentrations that are scattered and constantly shifting, and the first calves may begin to arrive towards the end of the month, depending on the rains. Lions, cheetahs and hyenas hunt the herds. The landscape is open, so sightings are often easy. Camps in this region often work on a seasonal basis, so confirm availability early. See the Serengeti migration calendar and Serengeti regions guide.

Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Manyara in the Green Season

The crater floor is green and animal numbers remain strong, so a descent in January is rewarding, though cloud can sit on the rim in the mornings. Tarangire is lush, and elephants spread out away from the river, which makes the park quieter than in the dry months, but baobabs and birdlife are fine. Lake Manyara is a good short stop for tree-climbing lions in the right areas, and flamingos may be present on the lake. See Ngorongoro Crater wildlife guide, Tarangire wildlife guide and Lake Manyara wildlife guide.

Kilimanjaro in January

January is one of the better windows for climbing, with generally clearer weather than the long rains and fewer people than July to October. Summit nights are cold, whatever the month, and some days bring cloud or showers on the lower slopes. A slower route with more acclimatisation days improves your odds of reaching the top, and a good operator will explain safety checks and the role of guides and porters. Prepare for cold with proper layers and good boots. See Kilimanjaro routes compared and best time and altitude sickness guide.

Zanzibar and the Coast

The coast is hot and humid in January, with the north-easterly breeze offering some relief. Seas are generally calm, and swimming, snorkelling and sailing are pleasant, with some showers. It is a classic month to end a safari on the sand, but afternoons are best spent in the shade or the water. Zanzibar marks Revolution Day on 12 January, with some celebrations and closures. Sunscreen and a hat are essential. See Zanzibar and Stone Town guide and Zanzibar beaches by region.

A Ten-Day January Itinerary

Fly into Kilimanjaro or Arusha and rest for a night, then spend a night at Tarangire or Manyara to ease into safari. Continue to the Ngorongoro area, then three nights around Ndutu and the southern Serengeti to follow the herds. Fly back to Arusha and onward to Zanzibar for the last three nights. Keep the Ndutu stay at three nights because herd positions shift. See Tanzania calving season itinerary and 10-day northern circuit itinerary.

Booking and Packing Notes

Book Ndutu-area camps and flights early for late January through March, since the best locations are limited. Pack light layers, a waterproof jacket, a warm fleece for early drives, strong sun protection and insect repellent. Also check health and vaccinations and the packing list. For neighbouring months, compare Tanzania in February and Tanzania in December.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team