Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari: Month-by-Month Guide
- sharifuiddy30
- Sep 10
- 6 min read
Tanzania, located in East Africa, is one of the world’s most sought-after safari destinations. With its diverse landscapes, iconic wildlife, and world-famous parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, the country offers safari experiences year-round. But travelers often ask: When is the best time to visit Tanzania for safari?
This month-by-month guide breaks down what to expect, where to go, and tips for making the most of your trip.
How is the Weather in Tanzania in January and February for Safari?
January and February are part of the short dry season, making them one of the most popular times to travel. Days are warm with clear skies, and game drives are rarely interrupted by rain. This is also the time when the southern Serengeti and the Ndutu plains become the stage for one of nature’s most incredible events: the calving season.
During these months, wildebeest give birth to more than 400,000 calves within just a few weeks. The open plains fill with newborn life, and predators such as lions, hyenas, and cheetahs remain highly active as they take advantage of the vulnerable young. The result is some of the most dramatic and action-packed game viewing of the year.
Tips:
This period is a dream for photographers — the combination of lush green grass, newborn animals, and predator activity makes for powerful images.
It’s also peak season, so book lodges and camps early to secure space, especially around Ndutu.
How is the Weather in Tanzania in March for Safari?
March is a transitional month, marking the shift from the short dry season into the green season. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro areas remain lush, with abundant food and water. Wildlife sightings are still excellent, and the calving season often continues into early March, meaning predator action remains high.
Birdwatchers especially enjoy March, as migratory species arrive in large numbers, adding color and sound to the landscape. Occasional rains may occur, but they are usually brief showers that refresh the scenery rather than disrupt activities.
Tips:
March tends to be quieter, with fewer tourists compared to January and February, which creates a more intimate safari experience.
Prices often begin to drop, making this month attractive for travelers who want excellent wildlife encounters without high-season crowds.
How is the Weather in Tanzania in April and May for Safari?
April and May are considered the long rainy season in Tanzania. These months bring the heaviest rainfall of the year, and some lodges in the Serengeti and remote parks may close temporarily due to muddy conditions. However, this is also the low season, meaning prices are at their lowest and parks are almost empty of tourists.
The landscapes during this period are stunning — emerald green grass, dramatic skies, and fewer vehicles on game drives. Wildlife remains in the parks, especially in Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Manyara, which are accessible year-round.
Tips:
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers since lodge rates drop significantly.
Consider fly-in safaris to avoid long, muddy road journeys.
Bring waterproof clothing and expect the unexpected — game drives can still be rewarding despite the rains.
How is the Weather in Tanzania in June for Safari?
June marks the beginning of the long dry season, and it’s also the time when the Great Migration begins its movement northward through the western Serengeti toward the Grumeti River. Wildlife becomes easier to spot as vegetation thins out, and animals start congregating around rivers and waterholes.
The weather is pleasant, with cool mornings and evenings but comfortable daytime temperatures. June is also less crowded than July and August, making it a sweet spot for travelers who want excellent sightings without peak-season crowds.
Tips:
Pack warm layers for early morning game drives — temperatures can be chilly at sunrise.
June is excellent for adventurers who want to see the first stages of the Great Migration without the busier high season.
How is the Weather in Tanzania in July and August for Safari?
July and August are peak safari months in Tanzania. The Serengeti becomes the stage for the world-famous Mara River crossings, where herds of wildebeest and zebra attempt to cross crocodile-infested waters in a desperate bid for survival. This adrenaline-filled spectacle is unmatched anywhere else on Earth.
In addition, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park are thriving with wildlife. Tarangire, in particular, is famous for its massive elephant herds, which gather in large numbers at this time. The weather is dry, with warm days and cooler nights, creating ideal conditions for game drives.
Tips:
This is the best time for first-time safari visitors who want the classic African safari experience.
Lodges in Serengeti and Ngorongoro sell out quickly, so book 6–12 months in advance.
Expect busy parks, but also some of the most rewarding game viewing of the year.
How is the Weather in Tanzania in September for Safari?
September continues the dry season, offering some of the most reliable game viewing of the year. The Great Migration remains in the northern Serengeti, and predator-prey interactions are frequent. The weather is warm and dry, making conditions perfect for both game drives and beach add-ons in Zanzibar.
This is also a popular month for couples and honeymooners, as it offers excellent wildlife viewing with slightly fewer crowds compared to July and August.
Tips:
September is ideal for combining a safari and beach holiday.
Pleasant weather and moderate crowds make it one of the best all-around months for a Tanzania safari.
How is the Weather in Tanzania in October for Safari?
October is the tail end of the long dry season. Wildlife viewing remains excellent as animals are still concentrated around rivers and permanent water sources. However, the first short rains may begin toward the end of the month, bringing a hint of green back to the landscape.
The migration herds gradually begin moving south, preparing for the next calving season. For visitors, this month provides great game viewing and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere compared to the peak months.
Tips:
October is a good choice for travelers seeking value — prices are often lower than in July and August, but wildlife remains abundant.
Bring a light rain jacket just in case of afternoon showers.
How is the Weather in Tanzania in November for Safari?
November is known as the period of short rains. These are usually brief afternoon or evening showers that rarely interfere with game drives. The rains transform the landscape into a fresh, green paradise, and migratory birds return, making it one of the best months for birdwatching.
The wildebeest herds begin their long journey southward, creating great wildlife encounters along the way. With fewer tourists, November safaris feel more private and relaxed.
Tips:
November is excellent for photographers — dramatic skies, green backdrops, and active wildlife make for striking images.
Lower prices and fewer crowds make this month attractive for those who want a quieter safari.
How is the Weather in Tanzania in December for Safari?
December is a festive and vibrant month in Tanzania. The wildebeest herds return to the southern Serengeti for the calving season, while Zanzibar becomes a favorite add-on for Christmas and New Year holidays.
Wildlife is abundant, and the atmosphere in lodges and camps is lively, with many families traveling during the school holidays. Light rains may fall, but they rarely affect safaris significantly.
Tips:
December is a fantastic month for family safaris, with many lodges offering festive activities.
Book early, as this is one of the busiest months for travel in both Serengeti and Zanzibar.
Where is the Wildebeest Migration Each Month?
January–March: Southern Serengeti & Ndutu plains (calving season).
April–May: Moving northwards, scattered across central Serengeti.
June–July: Western Serengeti, Grumeti River crossings.
August–September: Northern Serengeti & Mara River crossings.
October–December: Returning south to the Serengeti.
Tip: Following the Great Migration month by month is the ultimate safari experience in Tanzania.
Can I Visit Tanzania Year-Round?
Yes! Tanzania is a year-round safari destination.
Visit June–October for guaranteed game viewing in dry conditions.
Visit January–February for predator action and calving season.
Visit March, April, May, and November for fewer crowds and lower prices.
Summing up
So, what is the best time to visit Tanzania for safari?
For the Great Migration: June–September and January–March.
For budget safaris: April, May, and November.
For safari + Zanzibar beach combo: June–September or December.
Every month offers something unique. Whether it’s lions hunting during the calving season, river crossings in the Serengeti, or peaceful birdwatching in the green season, Tanzania safari experiences are unforgettable any time of year.
Ready to Plan Your Tanzania Safari?
No matter which month you choose, Tanzania offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and year-round adventure. Whether you dream of witnessing the Great Migration, the wildebeest calving season, or enjoying a safari and beach holiday, we will help you design the perfect trip.
👉 Call/WhatsApp us today: +255 629 153 232
👉 Visit our website: www.theimageoftanzaniasafaris.com
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