Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari: Month-by-Month Guide
Tanzania is a year-round safari destination, but the best time to visit Tanzania for safari depends on what you want to see—whether it’s the Great Wildebeest Migration, predator action, fewer crowds, or a safari combined with Zanzibar beach holidays.
This month-by-month guide explains weather, wildlife, crowds, and costs, helping you choose the perfect time for your Tanzania safari.
Understanding Tanzania Safari Seasons
Tanzania has two main seasons that affect safari travel:
Dry Season (June – October)
- Best overall wildlife viewing
- Animals gather around rivers and waterholes
- Ideal for first-time safari travelers
Green / Wet Season (November – May)
- Lush landscapes and dramatic skies
- Fewer tourists and better value
- Best time for birdwatching and calving season
Month-by-Month Tanzania Safari Guide
January – February: Calving Season & Great Photography
Why visit:
This is one of the best months for predator action in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area, where wildebeest give birth.
- Excellent wildlife sightings
- Fewer crowds than peak season
- Ideal for photographers
Best parks:
Serengeti (Ndutu), Ngorongoro, Tarangire
Serengeti Safari Packages
March: Lush Landscapes & Fewer Tourists
Why visit:
March marks the start of the long rains, but safaris are still rewarding, especially early in the month.
- Green scenery
- Lower lodge rates
- Good wildlife sightings
Best parks:
Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro
April – May: Green Season (Low Season)
Why visit:
These are the wettest months, but also the most peaceful and affordable time to safari.
- Very few tourists
- Excellent birdwatching
- Best deals on luxury lodges
Considerations:
Some camps close; road conditions can be challenging.
Best parks:
Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Southern Tanzania
June: Start of the Dry Season
Why visit:
June marks the beginning of peak safari season as wildlife concentrations increase.
- Cooler temperatures
- Excellent wildlife viewing
- Great time for fly-in safaris
Best parks:
Serengeti, Tarangire, Ruaha
Southern Tanzania Safari Guide: Ruaha, Nyerere & Mikumi Explained
July – August: Peak Safari Season & River Crossings
Why visit:
This is one of the best times to visit Tanzania for safari, especially to witness the Great Migration river crossings in the northern Serengeti.
- Dramatic wildebeest crossings
- Dry weather and excellent visibility
- Peak season (book early)
Best parks:
Serengeti (North), Tarangire, Ruaha
Great Migration Safari
September – October: Best Overall Safari Experience
Why visit:
These months offer the best balance of weather, wildlife, and fewer crowds.
- High wildlife density
- Predator action at water sources
- Excellent photography conditions
Best parks:
Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Katavi
November: Short Rains & Fresh Landscapes
Why visit:
The short rains refresh the landscape without heavily impacting safaris.
- Fewer visitors
- Good wildlife sightings
- Shoulder-season pricing
Best parks:
Serengeti, Tarangire, Mikumi
December: Festive Season & Excellent Safari Conditions
Why visit:
December is a popular month combining safari with Zanzibar holidays.
- Green but accessible landscapes
- Excellent wildlife viewing
- Ideal for Christmas and New Year trips
Best parks:
Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire
Best Time to Visit Tanzania by Safari Interest
Best Time for Great Migration
- January–February: Calving (Southern Serengeti)
- July–August: River crossings (Northern Serengeti)
Best Time for Big Game Viewing
- June–October (Dry Season)
Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking
- June–October
- December–February
Chimpanzee Trekking in Tanzania
Best Time for Southern & Western Tanzania Safaris
- June–October for Ruaha, Nyerere, Katavi, and Mahale
Western Tanzania Safari Guide: Katavi, Gombe & Mahale for True Wilderness Lovers
When Is the Cheapest Time to Visit Tanzania?
- April and May offer the lowest prices
- Ideal for experienced travelers comfortable with rain
- Luxury lodges often offer excellent discounts
When Is the Best Time to Combine Safari & Zanzibar?
- June–October: Best weather overall
- December–February: Warm seas and festive atmosphere
Final Thoughts
The best time to visit Tanzania for safari depends on your goals, budget, and travel style. While June to October offers the best all-round wildlife viewing, the green season rewards travelers with fewer crowds, lush scenery, and better value.
No matter when you visit, Tanzania delivers world-class safari experiences year-round.
