Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari and Wildlife Tours

Tanzania is one of the most iconic safari destinations in Africa. Home to the Great Migration, the Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, it draws thousands of wildlife enthusiasts each year. But when is the best time to visit Tanzania for safari? The timing of your trip can greatly impact what you see, the weather, and your overall experience.

Tanzania's Safari Seasons

Tanzania experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Each has its own unique advantages depending on the experience youre after.

Dry Season (June to October)

This is considered the best time to visit Tanzania for safari for several reasons:

• Wildlife is easy to spot as animals gather around waterholes.

• The vegetation is sparse, making animals more visible.

• The skies are clear, and theres minimal rainfall.

• Cooler temperatures make travel comfortable.

During this season, the iconic Great Migration moves through the Serengeti, drawing huge herds of wildebeest and zebras. Predators like lions and cheetahs follow closely, making it a dramatic period for wildlife viewing.

Wet Season (November to May)

This season is broken into short rains (NovemberDecember) and long rains (MarchMay). While it may not be the most popular time, there are great reasons to visit:

• Fewer tourists mean a more intimate safari experience.

• Lush, green landscapes are ideal for photography.

• Its the best time for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive.

• Calving season (JanuaryMarch) brings a surge of baby animals.

However, roads in some parks may be muddy and impassable during the peak of the long rains (AprilMay).

Month-by-Month Safari Guide

• JanuaryMarch: Calving season in Serengeti; fewer crowds; warm

• AprilMay: Long rains; lush but muddy; fewer tourists

• June: Dry season begins; excellent wildlife sightings

• JulyAugust: Peak season; migration crossing rivers in Serengeti

• SeptemberOctober: Dry, great for game viewing; less crowded than August

• NovemberDecember: Short rains; green but manageable

Best Time by National Park

• Serengeti: June to October (migration), January to March (calving)

• Ngorongoro Crater: Year-round, best during dry months

• Tarangire: July to October for elephants and baobab scenery

• Lake Manyara: Good year-round; birdwatching peak in rainy season

• Selous & Ruaha: Best from June to October

Other Considerations

• Budget: Peak season means higher costs for lodges and flights.

• Photography: Green season offers rich colors and dramatic skies.

• Crowds: Peak season parks can be crowded; green season is quieter.

Final Thoughts

The best time to visit Tanzania for safari depends on your goals. For classic wildlife viewing and dry weather, go from June to October. For fewer tourists, baby animals, and stunning green scenery, January to March is excellent. Every season offers something special in this safari paradise.