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The Best Time to Go on Safari in Tanzania

A Comprehensive Guide

Tanzania is one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world, renowned for its vast savannah's, towering volcanoes, and extraordinary wildlife. From the Great Migration in the Serengeti to the dense biodiversity of Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania offers year-round safari opportunities. However, choosing the best time to go on safari in Tanzania depends on what you want to experience—be it wildlife, photography, birding, or fewer crowds.

Tanzania’s Seasons at a Glance

Tanzania’s climate can be broadly divided into two major seasons:

  1. Dry Season – June to October

  2. Wet Season – November to May, with:

    • Short Rains: November to mid-December

    • Long Rains: March to May

Each season has its own pros and cons for safari-goers.

Best Overall Time: June to October (Dry Season)

Why It’s Ideal:

  • Excellent wildlife viewing: Animals gather around waterholes, making them easier to spot.

  • Fewer mosquitoes: Lower humidity means fewer insects.

  • Comfortable weather: Warm days and cool nights.

  • Great for the Serengeti and Ngorongoro: Prime time for general game viewing.

Highlights:

  • Late June to July: Start of the Great Migration (Wildebeest move north through the Serengeti).

  • August to September: River crossings at the Mara River—one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles.

Things to Consider:

  • It’s the peak tourist season, so prices for lodges and tours are higher.

  • Book well in advance, especially for northern circuit parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

Green Season: November to March

This period, including the short rains and early part of the long rains, offers unique safari experiences:

Why It’s Worth Considering:

  • Lush landscapes: Vibrant green vegetation enhances photography.

  • Calving season: In late January to March, thousands of wildebeest give birth in the southern Serengeti.

  • Bird-watching paradise: Migratory birds are abundant.

  • Fewer tourists: Quieter parks and more affordable rates.

Highlights:

  • December to March: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu region) is best for calving and predator activity.

  • Lake Manyara and Tarangire are beautifully green and rich in birds and elephants.

Things to Consider:

  • Some roads may be muddy and harder to access.

  • Afternoon rains are common but usually short-lived.

 Least Recommended Time: April and May (Long Rains)

While it’s not impossible to go on safari during the long rains, it's generally not the best time:

Why You Might Avoid It:

  • Roads in parks can become impassable due to heavy rain.

  • Some lodges close temporarily.

  • Wildlife is harder to spot due to dense foliage.

However:

  • If you're on a budget, prices are at their lowest.

  • Photographers might enjoy the stormy skies and dramatic landscapes.

 

Final Tips for Planning Your Tanzanian Safari

  • Consider what you want to see: Migration crossings, predator hunts, or bird-life?

  • Book in advance if traveling during the dry season.

  • Pack appropriately: Layers for cool mornings, neutral colors, and rain gear for shoulder seasons.

  • Get a guide: Local guides dramatically enhance the experience, especially in tracking animals and sharing ecological insights.

Conclusion

While you can enjoy a safari in Tanzania any time of year, the dry season from June to October is widely considered the best time for classic game viewing. However, if you're after something more unique—like witnessing wildebeest calving, lush landscapes, or bird migrations—the green season from December to March might be ideal.

Each season brings its own beauty, and with the right preparation, your Tanzanian safari will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.