Tanzania is one of Africa’s top safari destinations, home to iconic wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the world-famous Great Wildebeest Migration. But when it comes to planning the perfect trip, timing is everything. Understanding the best time to visit Tanzania for safari ensures you get the most out of your adventure—whether it’s seeing predators in action or witnessing massive herds crossing rivers.
In this guide, we’ll explore Tanzania’s safari seasons, weather patterns, and highlight the ideal times to visit different parks so you can plan the trip of a lifetime.
Tanzania’s Safari Seasons Explained
Tanzania has a tropical climate, divided mainly into two seasons:
Dry Season (June to October): Best for wildlife viewing.
Wet Season (November to May): Divided into short rains (Nov–Dec) and long rains (March–May), but still offers unique safari experiences.
Best Overall Time for Safari: June to October
This is considered the peak safari season. The dry weather means vegetation is sparse, making animals easier to spot. Wildlife gathers around waterholes, and road conditions in the parks are ideal.
Pros:
Best wildlife visibility
Fewer mosquitoes due to dry conditions
Great for visiting Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara
Ideal time to witness the Great Migration river crossings (July–September)
Cons:
Higher prices due to peak tourist season
Popular parks can get crowded
Month-by-Month Breakdown of Safari Travel in Tanzania
January to February – Calving Season in the Serengeti
This is a great time to visit the southern Serengeti. During these months, wildebeests give birth to hundreds of thousands of calves. Predators are abundant, making for dramatic wildlife interactions.
Highlights:
Wildebeest calving season
Excellent predator sightings
Fewer tourists compared to peak months
Downside: Rain showers may occur, but they’re usually short-lived.
March to May – Long Rainy Season (Low Season)
This is Tanzania’s low tourist season due to heavy rains. Parks may be muddy and some camps close temporarily. However, prices drop significantly, and the landscape turns lush and green.
Pros:
Cheapest safari rates
Fewer crowds
Beautiful green landscapes and migratory birds
Cons:
Rain can hinder game drives and accessibility
Some lodges and roads may be closed
Note: If you’re planning to visit during this time, consider going to parks with better drainage like the Ngorongoro Crater or areas with permanent roads.
June – Beginning of the Dry Season
June marks the transition into the dry season. It’s one of the best months to start your safari journey. Wildlife begins to gather around water sources, and the Great Migration is in motion heading north.
Best Areas: Central and western Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire
Ideal for: Wildlife lovers who want great visibility without the peak July crowds
July to September – Peak Season and River Crossings
These months are arguably the best time to visit Tanzania for safari, especially to witness the dramatic Grumeti and Mara River crossings during the Great Migration. The Serengeti becomes a stage for thrilling predator-prey interactions.
Why Visit Now?
Migration crossings in northern Serengeti
Best weather conditions
Excellent for photography and family safaris
Keep in Mind: Book well in advance—this is peak safari time.
October – End of Dry Season
Wildlife is still concentrated around water sources, and game viewing is fantastic. As the month progresses, some animals start migrating again in anticipation of the rains.
Great for: Those looking to enjoy excellent safaris with slightly fewer tourists than July–Sept
November to December – Short Rain Season
Short rains return, but they rarely disrupt safari activities. This is another shoulder season with good wildlife viewing and fewer crowds. Migratory birds begin arriving, and the parks are beautifully green.
Where to Go: Serengeti (for returning herds), Ngorongoro, Tarangire
Advantages:
Lower rates than peak season
Clear air and vibrant scenery
Good mix of game and birdlife
Park-Specific Safari Timing
Serengeti National Park: Year-round, but June–October is best for river crossings; Jan–Feb for calving.
Ngorongoro Crater: Excellent all year. Dry season (June–October) offers easiest access.
Tarangire National Park: Best from June to October when elephants gather in large numbers.
Lake Manyara: Great in dry season, though wet season brings rich birdlife.
Ruaha and Selous (Southern Circuit): Best from June to November, with fewer tourists than the north.
Tips for Planning Your Safari
Book early: Especially for June–October, when lodges fill fast.
Layer your clothing: Mornings can be chilly, while afternoons are warm.
Bring binoculars and a camera: You won’t want to miss a moment.
Travel insurance: Always recommended, particularly if visiting during the rainy season.
Final Thoughts
The best time to visit Tanzania for safari depends on what you want to see and your travel preferences. If you want prime wildlife viewing, July to September is unbeatable. If you’re a budget traveler or birdwatching enthusiast, the green season offers serenity and special sightings.
Regardless of when you go, Tanzania promises one of the most unforgettable safari experiences on Earth—where every sunrise is golden, every game drive is thrilling, and every moment is a memory in the making.