Planning a safari in Tanzania? One of the most common questions every traveler asks is — “When is the best time to visit Tanzania for a safari?”
Tanzania is a world-class safari destination blessed with diverse landscapes, iconic wildlife, and spectacular safari parks like Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara.
While Tanzania offers unforgettable safaris year-round, the timing of your visit can greatly affect your wildlife experience, costs, and weather conditions.
This detailed guide explains the best time to go on a Tanzania safari based on the safari seasons, wildlife migrations, weather patterns, and travel tips — month-by-month.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania for a Safari
- Top Destinations: Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda - East Africa
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Tanzania Safari Seasons at a Glance
| Season | Months | Safari Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | June – October | Excellent wildlife viewing, Great Migration | First-time visitors, Big Five safaris |
| Green Season | November – March | Bird watching, lush landscapes, fewer crowds | Photographers, budget travelers |
| Long Rains | April – May | Lowest safari cost, very green | Off-season deals, fewer tourists |
Best Time for Wildlife Safaris in Tanzania
June to October – Dry Season (Peak Safari Season)
This is considered the best time to visit Tanzania for a safari — especially for first-time visitors.
Why Visit in This Period?
Animals gather around waterholes – easy to spot wildlife
Clear skies & low humidity
Perfect for game drives in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Ruaha
Wildebeest Migration crossings in northern Serengeti (July – September)
Where to Go:
📍 Serengeti National Park
📍 Ngorongoro Crater
📍 Tarangire National Park
📍 Ruaha National Park
November to March – Green Season (Low to Mid Season)
Ideal for travelers seeking lower safari costs and fewer crowds.
Highlights:
Calving season in Southern Serengeti (January – March) – Predators like lions and cheetahs are highly active
Birding safaris at their best – migratory birds are present
Stunning green landscapes for photography
Recommended Parks:
📍 Ndutu Area – Southern Serengeti (Calving Season)
📍 Lake Manyara National Park
📍 Tarangire National Park
📍 Selous Game Reserve
April to May – Long Rains (Low Season)
This is Tanzania’s wettest season — not ideal for all parks, but perfect for budget travelers.
Pros of Visiting During Long Rains:
Best safari deals & discounts
Beautiful, dramatic landscapes
Very few tourists
Considerations:
Some lodges and camps close in remote areas
Road conditions can be muddy
Wildlife is still visible but harder to track in dense vegetation
Best Areas to Visit:
📍 Central Serengeti (Resident wildlife)
📍 Ngorongoro Crater (Year-round wildlife)
📍 Zanzibar for beach relaxation after safari
Month-by-Month Tanzania Safari Guide
| Month | Safari Experience Highlights | Best Locations |
|---|---|---|
| January – March | Calving Season, Predator Action | Southern Serengeti (Ndutu), Ngorongoro |
| April – May | Greenest Landscapes, Budget Safaris | Central Serengeti, Zanzibar |
| June | Start of Peak Season, Excellent Game Viewing | Serengeti, Tarangire |
| July – September | River Crossings (Great Migration), Dry Weather | Northern Serengeti, Ngorongoro |
| October | Excellent Wildlife Visibility, Dry Season Ends | Serengeti, Tarangire |
| November – December | Short Rains, Lush Scenery, Bird Watching | Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Ngorongoro |
Final Thoughts – When is The Best Time to Visit Tanzania for a Safari?
For the Great Wildebeest Migration: July to September (Northern Serengeti)
For Calving Season & Predator Viewing: January to March (Southern Serengeti)
For Budget Safaris: April, May & November
For Photographers & Bird Lovers: November to March
For Classic Big Five Safaris: June to October
FAQs About Tanzania Safari Seasons
Can I Visit Tanzania All Year Round for Safari?
Yes! Tanzania offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, but the experience varies by season and park.
What is the Cheapest Time to Visit Tanzania?
April and May offer the lowest safari prices due to the rainy season.
What Month is Best for the Great Wildebeest Migration?
Calving Season: January – March (Southern Serengeti)
River Crossings: July – September (Northern Serengeti)
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Why Book With Olduvai Tours Tanzania Africa?
✅ Professional and knowledgeable local guides
✅ Customized safari experiences tailored for you
✅ Comfortable and safe safari vehicles
✅ Authentic accommodation options
✅ Excellent customer service from start to finish
