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When to Visit

When is the best time for a safari in Tanzania?

The best time to visit Tanzania depends on what wildlife you’d like to spot. The country’s seasons and wildlife numbers are dictated by the rains, so you’ll have a slightly different experience depending on when you choose to visit.

Tanzania’s headline attraction is the Great Migration, which occurs year-round across the Serengeti. Many people flock here between July and September for a chance to witness huge herds of wildebeest and zebra crossing the Mara River — panic ensues as they try to avoid the jaws of crocodiles and other predators waiting to pounce. You’ll see lots of vehicles in the park at this time of year, though.

Tanzania’s ‘green season’, between November and March, is much quieter. While there’s a chance of rain showers, it’s a fantastic time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive in their thousands. You’ll also see Great Migration herds with their newly born calves.

George Temba

Tanzania Specialist
4.2

The best time to visit Tanzania is from July to October when the country is at its driest. This coincides with the migration river crossings, however, all the parks offer amazing wildlife sightings at this time as the grasses and bush are at their least dense.

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Month-by-month guide for travelling in Tanzania

If your Tanzania Travel Itinerary revolves around observing specific wildlife and visiting some particular natural wonders, you will always find certain months more appealing than others. Hence, determining the Best Month for Tanzania Safari will eventually depend on your interests and desired experiences. Let’s look at the details of what each month has got in store for you when coming for Tanzania Safari Tours.

If it’s a tropical beach holiday that you’re after, January is one of the best times to visit Tanzania’s coast. Experiencing Zanzibar for a vacation consists of powder-soft sand beaches, azure waters, and total relaxation. For the Wildebeest Migration, the first month of the year usually sees the herds move into the southern Serengeti to give birth to their calves.

It’s hot and humid during February, and it’s the start of calving season when thousands of wildebeest give birth to their young and predators lie in wait. Approximately 500,000 wildebeest calves are born during this period. The plains are full of new life, taking their first teetering steps.

It’s extremely hot in Tanzania in March, early in the month it tends to be dry, although the ‘long rains’ have in previous years come early. The landscape turns an otherworldly green which is a strong contrast to the brown texture of the terrain over the summer months. The Ngorongoro Highlands receives short and sharp rainfall in the late afternoon, leaving the mornings pleasant. March is also considered a prime month to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro.

April is by far the wettest month of the year and while the rains predominantly come in the form of afternoon thundershowers, it’s not unusual to have big storms at night, as well as plenty of grey days. The western and southern parks have the highest humidity of the year, but accommodations and Tanzania tours offer great value for money if you choose to travel during this time.

The beginning of May is still very wet, but things do start to dry out towards the end of the month as June welcomes in the dry season. During this month, the Great Migration is trekking from the southern Serengeti to the western corridor.

 

June is dry, busy and is considered the best time of year to visit for Tanzania luxury safaris. The rains have come to an end, the savannahs are starting to change from green to yellow, and wildlife sightings improve as the vegetation slowly recedes. The Wildebeest Migration may have stopped at the Grumeti River, building up numbers before they attempt their death-defying crossings.

July is when peak safari season is in full swing and is the best time to travel to Tanzania for ideal weather and excellent game drive opportunities, as well as pairing up a Kenya and Tanzania safari. The Great Migration should have reached the northern parts of the Serengeti, getting ready for its main event: crossing the treacherous waters of the Mara River into Kenya. Read more to find out about a Kenya vs Tanzania safari.

August is still considered peak season with tourist crowds flocking to the northern safari circuit (Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti) and Zanzibar. Wildlife viewing is sensational, and the herds of the Great Migration should have started to cross the Mara River.

In September, tourist crowds begin to dissipate and there is still no rain, meaning humidity levels are low bringing fewer mosquitoes. September is another prime month for hikers wanting to conquer Kilimanjaro and for those in search of high numbers of elephants, the Tarangire National Park is where you will find them en masse. Plus, this month is the start of the fishing season in Tanzania’s great lake regions.

October sees the building of thunderclouds and the arrival of the first rains. Mahale Mountains National Park during this month is the best time to travel to Tanzania for chimpanzee encounters, and Lake Tanganyika is at its warmest. If you’re wanting to climb Mount Meru, this is the best month to visit Arusha National Park.

November is possibly one of the most underrated months for a safari in Tanzania. There will be rain, but it’s usually only periodic thundershowers in the afternoon. The northern parks of Tanzania are generally great for game viewing year-round, and this month is a good time to discover some off-the-beaten track destinations.

December falls in the middle of the ‘short rains’ and the beginning of the month is usually quiet compared to the two weeks over Christmas and New Year. December is the perfect month for birdwatching as the migratory birds start to arrive – particularly in the Nyerere and Tarangire National Parks. The Great Migration has returned to the short grass plains of the southern Serengeti. It’s the ideal time for a Serengeti Safari in Tanzania witnessing feasting in preparation to calve and bringing new life on their year-round circular journey.

Safari Seasons In Tanzania

Tanzania offers a range of safari seasons throughout the year, each with its distinct characteristics and attractions. By understanding the different seasons, travellers can find the Best Time to Do Safari in Tanzania.

High Season – June To October

These are peak tourism months with excellent weather and high animal visibility. However, they also come with crowded parks and higher costs.

  • Weather is cool, dry, and predominantly sunny.
  • This is considered the best time to see wild animals on Tanzania Safari Vacation.
  • Popular areas may experience higher prices and increased hotel occupancy during this time.

Shoulder Season - October To February

Shoulder seasons are transitional periods with fewer tourists and moderate animal visibility. The weather is generally unpredictable, but costs are relatively lower.

  • The weather during these months is generally hot, with occasional short rains. These rains are known as “mvuli” and the seasonal trade wind called “kusi” blows from late October.
  • Serengeti Safaris are the highlights of the shoulder season as they allow you to witness the famous wildebeest calving season.

Low Season - March To May

Heavy rains are common during the low season. This can lead to muddy secondary roads and limited access to certain areas.

  • This is the best time for discounted stays as some hotels offer lower rates, and there are fewer crowds in the northern safari parks of the country.
  • Additionally, bird-watching enthusiasts will enjoy the abundance of birdlife during this season.
Choose Your Time For A Rewarding Tanzania Safari!

Ultimately, choosing the Best Time to Visit Tanzania largely depends on the specific wildlife and scenery you’re keen to experience. Every season has its unique charm and offers different yet equally thrilling Tanzania Safari Tours.

From the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti to the serene beauty of Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania’s wildlife spectacle is always open for business. Remember, your perfect safari is just a choice away.

To create unforgettable memories on the magnificent plains of Africa, book your next adventure with Nyamera Treks & Safaris. Choose from our wide selection of Tanzania Safari Packages and start planning as the wilderness is waiting!

Trip Inspiration

The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what’s possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.

5 Days Tanzania Big-5 Safari
$1870
Lake Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
5 days
4.63 by 8 reviews
  • Location4.63
  • Amenities4.63
  • Services4.63
  • Price4.63
  • Rooms4.63
4.63 /5
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4 Days Tanzania Splendor Safari
$1200
Serengeti, Tarangire & Ngorongoro
4 days
4.63 by 8 reviews
  • Location4.63
  • Amenities4.63
  • Services4.63
  • Price4.63
  • Rooms4.63
4.63 /5
More Information
6 Days Tanzania Perfect Safari
$1930
Lake Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
6 days
4.63 by 8 reviews
  • Location4.63
  • Amenities4.63
  • Services4.63
  • Price4.63
  • Rooms4.63
4.63 /5
More Information
7 Days Classic Lion Safari
$2100
Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
7 days
4.63 by 8 reviews
  • Location4.63
  • Amenities4.63
  • Services4.63
  • Price4.63
  • Rooms4.63
4.63 /5
More Information

Ways to Experience Luxury Travel to Tanzania

Serengeti Migration
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Family Safaris
Family Safar
Couple Safaris
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Hot Air Balloon
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Visit The Locals
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On-Foot Safari
Walking Safari (1)
See What Our Clients, Have to Say

We have been receiving reviews from our served clients and Nyamera Treks & Safaris is rated 5/5 by customers. This honor is given to us by customers because we always remain committed to all our customers to do whatever is needed by them to make their safari fully satisfied.

Reasons On Why Going On Safari With Us

Choose Nyamera Treks & Safaris for an unforgettable safari with expert guides, tailored packages, and luxurious accommodations. Enjoy unique experiences like the Great Migration and support conservation and local communities. Nyamera Treks & Safaris ensures a memorable adventure.

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Discover the adventure of a lifetime with Nyamera Treks and Safaris. Experience thrilling game drives, intimate walking safaris, and serene boat trips, all guided by experts. Enjoy up-close encounters with the Big Five, visits to Maasai villages, and luxurious accommodations. Book now for an unforgettable, personalized safari adventure!

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