The Best Months to Visit Tanzania for a Safari Adventure

June to October, Tanzania is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable experiences. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania’s national parks and game reserves provide some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the world. However, choosing the right time to visit is crucial for maximizing your safari experience.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best months to visit Tanzania for a safari adventure, considering factors such as weather, wildlife migrations, crowd levels, and overall safari conditions.

Understanding Tanzania’s Seasons from June to October

Tanzania experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Each season has its advantages and disadvantages for safari-goers.

1. Dry Season (June – October)

The dry season is widely regarded as the best time for safaris in Tanzania. This period includes:

• June – August: Peak safari season

• September – October: Late dry season, excellent for wildlife viewing

Advantages:

• Optimal Wildlife Viewing: With sparse vegetation and limited water sources, animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to spot.

• Great Migration (Serengeti): Between July and October, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River in the northern Serengeti, offering dramatic predator-prey action.

• Pleasant Weather: Cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall make for comfortable game drives.

• Clear Skies: Ideal for photography with excellent lighting and visibility.

Disadvantages:

• Higher Prices: Peak season means higher costs for lodges and tours.

• More Crowds: Popular parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro can get busy.

2. Wet Season (November – May)

The wet season is divided into two phases:

• Short Rains (November – December): Brief showers, lush landscapes

• Long Rains (March – May): Heavy rainfall, some parks may be inaccessible

Advantages:

• Lower Prices: Accommodation and tour rates drop significantly.

• Fewer Tourists: More exclusive safari experiences with fewer vehicles.

• Birdwatching Paradise: Migratory birds arrive, making it ideal for bird enthusiasts.

• Lush Scenery: Vibrant green landscapes and blooming flowers create stunning backdrops.

Disadvantages:

• Challenging Road Conditions: Some roads become muddy and impassable.

• Wildlife Dispersal: Animals scatter due to abundant water and food.

• Unpredictable Weather: Heavy rains may disrupt travel plans.

Best Months is June to October for a Tanzania Safari

1. June – October (Dry Season – Best for Wildlife Viewing)

This is the prime time for safaris in Tanzania.

• June – July: The Great Migration begins in the western Serengeti as herds move toward the Grumeti River.

• August – September: The migration reaches the northern Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara, featuring dramatic river crossings.

• October: The dry season peaks, with excellent predator action as animals concentrate around remaining water sources.

Best Parks to Visit:

• Serengeti National Park (Great Migration)

• Ngorongoro Crater (High density of wildlife)

• Tarangire National Park (Large elephant herds)

• Lake Manyara National Park (Tree-climbing lions)

2. January – February (Short Dry Spell – Calving Season)

A short dry period between the short and long rains, this is a fantastic time to visit for:

• Wildebeest Calving Season (Southern Serengeti & Ndutu): Thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

• Great for Photography: Clear skies and fewer tourists.

Best Parks to Visit:

• Southern Serengeti & Ndutu Conservation Area (Calving season)

• Ngorongoro Crater (Year-round wildlife)

3. November – December (Short Rains – Shoulder Season)

A transitional period with occasional showers but still good for safaris.

• Lower Prices & Fewer Crowds: Ideal for budget travelers.

• Lush Landscapes: Beautiful greenery and newborn animals.

Best Parks to Visit:

• Serengeti (Herds start moving south)

• Selous Game Reserve (Less crowded, great for walking safaris)

4. March – May (Long Rains – Low Season)

The least popular time due to heavy rains, but still has some benefits.

• Budget-Friendly: Significant discounts on lodges and tours.

• Exclusive Safaris: Very few tourists, private experiences.

• Birdwatching: Excellent for avian enthusiasts.

Best Parks to Visit:

• Ngorongoro Crater (Accessible year-round)

• Katavi National Park (Remote, wild, and pristine)

Month-by-Month Breakdown

Final Recommendations

• Best Overall Time: June – October (Dry season, Great Migration, optimal wildlife viewing).

• Best for Calving Season: January – February (Dramatic predator-prey interactions).

• Best for Budget Travelers: April – May & November (Lower prices, fewer crowds).

• Best for Birdwatchers: November – April (Migratory birds in full display).

Tanzania offers incredible safari experiences year-round, but the best months depend on your priorities—whether it’s witnessing the Great Migration, enjoying lower prices, or avoiding crowds. For most travelers, June to October provides the ultimate safari adventure, while January-February is perfect for calving season action.

No matter when you visit, Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa.