Tanzania is one of the top safari destinations in Africa, offering a rich tapestry of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. From the world-famous Serengeti plains to the majestic Ngorongoro Crater and diverse parks like Tarangire and Lake Manyara, there’s always something breathtaking to discover. But the best time to visit Tanzania for safari depends on what you want to see and experience.
This guide explores the best months to plan your safari, with a breakdown of weather, wildlife movement, and seasonal pros and cons.
Overview: Tanzania Safari Seasons
Tanzania generally has two main safari seasons:
-
Dry Season (June to October): Best for wildlife viewing.
-
Wet Season (November to May): Best for birdwatching and fewer crowds.
Let’s take a closer look at each season to help you decide.
Dry Season (June to October): Peak Safari Time
This is widely considered the best time to visit Tanzania for safari, especially for first-time travelers.
Why It’s Ideal:
-
Animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to spot.
-
Grass is short, and foliage is sparse, improving visibility.
-
Fewer mosquitoes and pleasant weather (dry, sunny days).
-
Ideal time to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti.
Month-by-Month Breakdown:
-
June: Beginning of the dry season. Excellent game viewing as animals begin gathering. Cooler temperatures—ideal for travel.
-
July & August: Peak migration months. River crossings in the Serengeti are a top attraction. It’s also cooler and very comfortable.
-
September: Still dry, and migration is in full swing. Less crowded than July and August.
-
October: Wildlife remains abundant. Temperatures begin to rise slightly but still ideal.
Top Safari Destinations during this time:
Serengeti National Park
Tarangire National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Selous Game Reserve
Wet Season (November to May): Green Season Safari
Also called the “Green Season”, this period is less popular but has its unique charm.
Why Visit During the Wet Season?
-
The landscape is lush and vibrant—perfect for photography.
-
Fewer tourists mean more intimate experiences.
-
Ideal for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive in large numbers.
-
Lower rates and better lodge availability.
Divided into Two Rainy Periods:
-
Short Rains (November to mid-December): Light showers, mostly in the afternoons. Still possible to enjoy safaris with occasional disruptions.
-
Long Rains (March to May): Heavier, more continuous rainfall. Some remote parks may be inaccessible.
Month-by-Month Breakdown:
-
November: Beginning of the short rains. Some lodges close, but northern parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro remain open.
-
December to February: Great for calving season in the Serengeti. Thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators and action-packed scenes.
-
March to May: Long rains dominate. While it’s the least recommended time for game viewing, prices are lowest and landscapes are stunning.
Great for:
Bird lovers
Experienced safari-goers
Budget-conscious travelers
When to See the Great Migration
The Great Migration is one of nature’s most spectacular wildlife events. Over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate across the Serengeti and into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, in search of greener pastures.
| Month | Migration Location |
|---|---|
| Jan – Mar | Southern Serengeti – calving season |
| April – May | Moving northwest toward the Western Corridor |
| June – July | Grumeti River crossings |
| Aug – Sep | Mara River crossings in northern Serengeti |
| Oct – Nov | Return south via eastern Serengeti |
If witnessing the migration is your top goal, plan according to these movement patterns and book early.
Other Considerations: Weather, Cost & Crowds
Weather
-
Dry season has ideal conditions: warm days, cool nights, and clear skies.
-
Wet season offers vibrant greenery and dramatic skies.
Cost
-
Peak season (Jul–Sep): Most expensive – higher park fees, lodge rates, and full bookings.
-
Low season (Mar–May): Cheapest time with deals on lodges, fewer visitors.
-
Shoulder seasons (Nov, Dec, Feb): Balanced in terms of price and crowd.
Crowds
-
Expect high tourist numbers in July–September.
-
December holiday season also sees a rise in international visitors.
-
Wet months (Mar–May) and early November are less crowded and more peaceful.
Best Time to Visit Based on Interest
| Interest | Recommended Months |
|---|---|
| General wildlife viewing | June – October |
| Great Migration crossings | July – September |
| Calving season & predators | January – March |
| Birdwatching & photography | November – April |
| Budget-friendly safaris | March – May |
| Fewer crowds | November, March, May |
Tips for Planning Your Tanzania Safari
-
Book early: Especially in peak months, lodges and camps fill up quickly.
-
Layer clothing: Mornings and evenings can be cool, even during dry months.
-
Consider your location: Weather varies slightly between northern and southern parks.
-
Travel with a trusted operator: Ensure your tour is well-planned, with experienced guides.
Conclusion
So, what is the best time to visit Tanzania for safari? If you’re after guaranteed big-game viewing, dry-season months from June to October are ideal. If you’re looking for lush landscapes, fewer crowds, or birdlife, the green season can offer a magical and affordable experience.
Ultimately, every month in Tanzania has something to offer—it all depends on your travel style and wildlife goals. With proper planning, your Tanzanian safari can be the adventure of a lifetime.
