What is the Best Time of Year to Go on Safari in Tanzania?

When planning a dream African safari, one question comes up more than any other: What is the best time of year to go on safari in Tanzania?
Tanzania is one of the most diverse and wildlife-rich countries in the world, home to iconic destinations like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Selous. Each season offers unique wildlife sightings and landscapes, so the “best” time depends on what you want to see, your budget, and your travel style.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore when to go on safari in Tanzania, how the seasons change the safari experience, and which months are best for specific wildlife events such as the Great Wildebeest Migration.

Understanding Tanzania’s Safari Seasons

To truly know the best time of year to go on safari in Tanzania, you need to understand the country’s climate and seasonal patterns. Tanzania experiences two main safari seasons:

1. Dry Season (June to October)

• Weather: Clear skies, sunny days, low humidity, and cooler nights.

• Wildlife: Animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.

• Best For: Big game viewing, including lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes.

• Why It’s Popular: This is considered the peak safari season in Tanzania because vegetation is sparse and wildlife is concentrated in visible areas.

2. Wet Season (November to May)

• Weather: Green landscapes, occasional showers, warmer temperatures.

• Wildlife: Many animals give birth during this time, and birdlife is spectacular.

• Best For: Fewer tourists, lower prices, and beautiful photography.

• Why It’s Special: It’s the calving season in the Serengeti (January–February), attracting predators and providing dramatic wildlife encounters.

Month-by-Month Guide – When to Go on Safari in Tanzania

To answer what is the best time of year to go on safari in Tanzania, let’s break it down by month and highlight what each offers.

January – February: Calving Season

• Location: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area)

• Highlights: Thousands of wildebeest and zebra give birth on the lush plains. This attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, offering action-packed sightings.

• Why Go: This is one of the most dramatic and photogenic times to visit.

March: End of Calving, Start of Rains

• Weather: The “long rains” begin to approach.

• Highlights: Animals still remain in large numbers in the south before migration begins northward.

• Why Go: Quieter parks and more intimate wildlife experiences.

April – May: Green Season

• Weather: Heavy rains; some remote areas become inaccessible.

• Wildlife: Lush, green landscapes and excellent birdwatching.

• Why Go: Lowest prices, fewer visitors, and serene surroundings. However, some camps close due to rain.

June: Start of the Great Migration Movement

• Location: Central and western Serengeti.

• Highlights: Herds start moving north; crocodile-filled Grumeti River crossings begin.

• Why Go: The dry season starts, making conditions excellent for travel.

July – August: River Crossings & Peak Wildlife

• Location: Northern Serengeti (Mara River area).

• Highlights: Dramatic wildebeest river crossings with high predator activity.

• Why Go: Often considered the best time of year to go on safari in Tanzania for those wanting to witness the Great Migration.

September – October: Best Big Game Viewing

• Location: Northern Serengeti and Tarangire.

• Highlights: Elephants congregate in Tarangire; migration herds are still crossing rivers in the north.

• Why Go: Peak dry season means high wildlife visibility.

November – December: Short Rains & Migratory Birds

• Weather: Short, refreshing rains; landscapes become green again.

• Wildlife: Migratory birds arrive, and wildlife viewing remains strong.

• Why Go: A great balance of lush scenery, good game viewing, and fewer crowds.