When is the Best Time for a Safari in Tanzania? A Month-by-Month Guide

Tanzania is a year-round safari destination with each month offering unique experiences across its vast landscapes. From the Great Migration to predator sightings and the lush, green landscapes of the rainy season, knowing the best time for a safari in Tanzania can help you make the most of your adventure. In this guide, we break down the best times to visit Tanzania for a safari, month by month, so you can plan the journey of a lifetime.

January to March – Calving Season and Green Landscapes

January to March marks the calving season in Tanzania’s southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The rains are light, giving the region a fresh, green landscape and attracting wildlife to the lush grasslands. This time of year is ideal for those looking to witness the birth of young wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes.

• Weather: Expect short rains and warm temperatures, with lush landscapes perfect for photography.
• Wildlife Highlights: Thousands of young animals are born during this period, creating dramatic predator-prey interactions.
• Best Parks to Visit: Southern Serengeti, Ndutu area, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

April to May – Green Season and Fewer Crowds

April and May are the peak of the rainy season in Tanzania, which brings lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower rates. While some roads can be challenging to navigate due to the rains, this period offers a quieter, more intimate safari experience.

• Weather: The rains are heavier, but sunny breaks are frequent. The landscapes are vibrant and green.
• Wildlife Highlights: Animals remain in the central Serengeti, and the reduced crowds allow for close-up encounters.
• Best Parks to Visit: Central Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater; these areas are accessible despite the rain.

June to July – Beginning of the Dry Season and Great Migration River Crossings

June marks the start of Tanzania’s dry season, attracting visitors eager to witness the Great Migration’s river crossings. In July, the herds begin to gather at the Grumeti and Mara Rivers in the Northern Serengeti, preparing for the dramatic river crossings.

• Weather: Cooler, dry conditions make it ideal for game drives.
• Wildlife Highlights: River crossings, abundant predators, and great visibility for spotting wildlife.
• Best Parks to Visit: Northern Serengeti for river crossings, Tarangire National Park for its elephant herds, and Lake Manyara for flamingos.

August to September – Peak Safari Season

August to September is peak safari season in Tanzania, thanks to its warm and dry conditions. This is an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals are more visible around water sources, and the Great Migration continues across the northern Serengeti.

• Weather: Dry, warm days and cool nights make it comfortable for safaris.
• Wildlife Highlights: The Great Migration river crossings, large gatherings of elephants in Tarangire, and predator sightings.
• Best Parks to Visit: Northern Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro Crater.

October – End of the Dry Season and Abundant Wildlife

October marks the end of the dry season, and water sources are limited, causing animals to congregate around rivers and watering holes. This month offers spectacular wildlife sightings, particularly in areas like the Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro.

• Weather: Warm and dry, but temperatures may begin to rise in late October.
• Wildlife Highlights: Concentrated animal sightings near water sources; a great time for bird watching as migratory birds arrive.
• Best Parks to Visit: Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

November – Short Rain Season and Birdwatching

November brings short rains to Tanzania, which revives the landscape, though these rains are brief and often occur in the afternoon or evening. This month offers fewer crowds, lower safari prices, and an opportunity to enjoy the green scenery and new bird migrations.

• Weather: Short, sporadic rains with cooler temperatures.
• Wildlife Highlights: Migratory birds arrive, and wildlife is active due to the fresh vegetation.
• Best Parks to Visit: Southern and Central Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire.

December – Holiday Season and the Great Migration in Southern Serengeti

December is an excellent time to visit Tanzania, as the short rains have created green landscapes across the Serengeti, where the Great Migration herds have returned to calve in the southern plains. The holiday season brings more visitors, but the vibrant scenery and wildlife make it worthwhile.

• Weather: Mild temperatures with occasional short rains.
• Wildlife Highlights: Calving herds in the Southern Serengeti, active predators, and seasonal bird migrations.
• Best Parks to Visit: Southern Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Lake Manyara.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania Based on Safari Interests

Here’s a quick overview of the best times to visit based on popular safari interests:

• For the Great Migration: June to October (for river crossings) and January to March (for calving).
• For Birdwatching: November to March, during the migratory season.
• For Predator Sightings: January to March and June to October, when prey concentrations attract predators.
• For Budget Safaris: April, May, and November, when rates are lower, and crowds are fewer.

A Few Travel Tips for a Tanzania Safari

• Book Early for Peak Seasons: If you’re planning to visit between June and September or December, booking early is essential.
• Consider Different Park Experiences: Tanzania offers a range of safari experiences, from classic game drives in the Serengeti to cultural encounters with the Maasai in Ngorongoro and unique landscapes in Tarangire.
• Choose the Right Safari Gear: Lightweight clothing, waterproof gear for rainy months, and sun protection are recommended. Binoculars and a good camera are also a must!

The Ultimate Safari Awaits Anytime in Tanzania

Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration, keen on birdwatching, or simply looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience, Tanzania offers something for every traveler year-round. Use this guide to decide the best time for your safari adventure in Tanzania, and Woodland Trek & Safaris will ensure that your experience is one of a lifetime.