Tanzania is one of the world’s most iconic safari destinations, home to the legendary Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and the great wildebeest migration. While Tanzania offers incredible wildlife viewing all year round, the experience can differ depending on when you travel. Factors like weather, animal movements, and seasonal safari highlights play a big role in planning the perfect trip.
This guide will help you understand the best time to visit Tanzania for safari based on seasons, wildlife activity, budget, and personal preferences.
Quick Answer: When is the Best Time?
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Best Overall Time: June to October – Dry season, excellent game viewing, wildebeest migration crossings.
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Best for Calving Season: January to March – Thousands of wildebeest give birth in the Serengeti.
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Best for Fewer Crowds & Lower Prices: March to May and November – Green season, lush landscapes, great photography opportunities.
Tanzania Safari Seasons Explained
1. Dry Season (June – October)
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Weather: Sunny, warm days and cool nights, very little rain.
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Wildlife: Animals gather around waterholes, making sightings easier.
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Highlights:
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Great Wildebeest Migration river crossings (Grumeti in June, Mara River July–September).
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Perfect for Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Selous.
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Crowds: High – this is peak safari season.
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Best For: First-time safari-goers, photographers, families.
2. Short Rains (November – December)
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Weather: Afternoon showers but plenty of sunshine.
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Wildlife: Still excellent, landscapes become greener.
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Highlights:
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Migration moves south to Serengeti’s Ndutu area.
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Lower prices compared to peak season.
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Crowds: Moderate.
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Best For: Travelers seeking good wildlife without peak-season costs.
3. Calving Season (January – March)
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Weather: Warm, occasional showers.
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Wildlife: Wildebeest calving season in Southern Serengeti.
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Highlights:
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Over 8,000 wildebeest calves born daily in February.
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Big cat action as predators follow the herds.
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Crowds: Moderate, but increasing in Ndutu and Southern Serengeti.
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Best For: Predator action lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
4. Long Rains (April – May)
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Weather: Heavy rains, muddy roads, some lodges close.
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Wildlife: Still plentiful, but harder to spot due to thick vegetation.
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Highlights:
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Low safari prices.
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Fewer tourists, making it feel more exclusive.
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Crowds: Very low.
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Best For: Budget travelers, birdwatchers, and those seeking solitude.
Month-by-Month Safari Calendar
| Month | Weather & Conditions | Safari Highlights | Crowds & Costs |
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| January | Warm, green landscapes | Start of calving season in Serengeti | Moderate |
| February | Best calving month, predator sightings | Peak of wildebeest births | Moderate |
| March | End of calving, start of rains | Good predator action | Moderate-Low |
| April | Heavy rains, muddy roads | Few tourists, discounted safaris | Low |
| May | Long rains continue | Green scenery, budget-friendly | Low |
| June | Dry season starts | Migration at Grumeti River | High |
| July | Dry and clear | Mara River crossings begin | Peak |
| August | Prime game viewing | Migration in Northern Serengeti | Peak |
| September | Warm, dry | Excellent for Big 5 and migration | High |
| October | End of dry season | Animals near waterholes | High |
| November | Short rains, fresh greenery | Migration moving south | Moderate |
| December | Warm, festive season | Great wildlife viewing | Moderate-High |
Choosing the Right Time for Your Safari
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For the Great Migration: June – September (river crossings) & January – March (calving).
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For Big 5 Safaris: June – October, when vegetation is thinner.
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For Birdwatching: November – April, when migratory species arrive.
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For Budget Safaris: April – May (low season deals).
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For Photographers: Green season (Nov–March) offers dramatic skies and vibrant landscapes.
Tips for Planning Your Tanzania Safari
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Book Early for Peak Season – Lodges fill up fast, especially July–September.
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Pack Smartly – Bring layers, as mornings and evenings can be chilly.
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Combine Regions – Mix Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro) with Southern Circuit (Ruaha, Selous) for variety.
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Consider Festive Season – December is popular for holiday safaris.
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Hire a Local Operator – They know the best spots based on season and migration movement.
Final Thoughts: When Should You Go?
The truth is, there’s no bad time for a Tanzania safari – it just depends on what you want to experience. For dramatic wildebeest river crossings, aim for July–September. For new life and predator action, January–March is unmatched. If you prefer fewer crowds and better deals, consider the green season (April–May or November).
Whether it’s your first safari or a return trip, Tanzania offers something unique in every season, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
