Ruaha weather: one rainy season, one long dry season
The rains run in one block, from the end of November to May. This is different from northern Tanzania, where people talk about two rainy seasons. In Ruaha it is simpler: a wet half of the year, a dry half and a hot stretch before the rains return.
June and July are the coolest months. The heat builds from September, and the hottest weather comes before the rains start in November and December. June to October are the busiest months, so book your camp early. If you want to compare the wet and dry months in terms of wildlife, read about the Great Ruaha River next.
Temperature and rainfall by month
Observed in 2025 at the Iringa weather station. Average daily high, average daily low and total rain.
| Month | High °C | Low °C | Rain mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 26.3 | 16.8 | 225.6 |
| February | 28.1 | 16.0 | 79.6 |
| March | 27.1 | 16.7 | 231.7 |
| April | 26.4 | 16.0 | 29.1 |
| May | 25.9 | 16.0 | 3.9 |
| June | 25.4 | 13.6 | 0.0 |
| July | 24.4 | 12.9 | 0.0 |
| August | 25.7 | 12.6 | 0.0 |
| September | 28.4 | 13.9 | 0.0 |
| October | 28.9 | 15.1 | 0.0 |
| November | 29.9 | 15.7 | 31.6 |
| December | 28.5 | 17.1 | 107.7 |
These numbers are one year, not a long-term average, and the station is in Iringa town, not in the park. Use the table to see the shape of the year, not to predict a day. For most first-time visitors who want good chances of wildlife near water, June to October is the safest window. Pick June or July if you prefer cooler days.
Our pick: a five-day Mikumi and Ruaha safari
Choose your dates with the season notes on this page, then pick a trip like this one: a day in Mikumi, two in Ruaha, park entry included.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Ruaha safaris for every season
Game drives in Ruaha National Park and trips from nearby towns, with live prices and availability. Check the dates and what each offer includes.
Best time to visit Ruaha
What each part of the year offers.
June to August: cool and dry
Mornings are cool and the days are dry. Water shrinks, and animals come to the river and its pools. This is a good window for a first safari, and the busiest. See our Ruaha safari page for how a trip is planned.
September to October: hotter and drier
The heat builds and the water is at its lowest. Animals depend on the river and the remaining pools, so game drives near the water are the most rewarding use of your time. Bring a hat and plenty of water.
November and December: the rains return
The first rains arrive and the landscape starts to turn green. Tracks can become muddy and rivers can rise. Crossings and plans can change, so stay flexible.
January to May: the green season
The park is green and water is easy to find, so animals spread out. Mud and rising rivers can slow your drives. A 4×4 is recommended, especially in the rains.
Planning around the weather
Small choices that make a difference.
Book camps early for June to October
These are the months most people ask for, so beds go first. Our lodges and camps guide explains the types of stay.
Pack for cool mornings
Early game drives in the open air feel cold in June and July. Bring a warm layer, plus sun protection for the day.
Mind the road in the rains
The track from Iringa can get hard in the wet season. Our getting there page covers flying in as an alternative.
Compare with the north
For the northern parks, see the weather guide for Tarangire.
Ruaha weather: frequently asked questions
When is the rainy season in Ruaha?
One connected rainy season runs from the end of November to May. Do not assume two separate rainy seasons as in northern Tanzania.
What is the best month to visit Ruaha?
June to October is the most requested window. June and July are coolest, September and October are hotter. A single month cannot be guaranteed, because every year differs.
Is October the hottest month?
In the 2025 figures from Iringa the highest daily average was in November, at 29.9 °C, with October at 28.9 °C. Heat builds before the rains, but one year does not prove a pattern.
Is it dry in July?
In 2025 no rain fell at the Iringa station in June, July, August, September or October. That is one year, so do not treat it as a promise.
Can I visit in the rainy season?
Yes. The park is open all year. Expect mud and rising rivers, and a 4×4 is recommended, especially in the rains.
Is this the official Ruaha weather service?
No. This is an independent guide. It is not run by TANAPA or by any weather service.