One of the top questions travelers ask is, “When is the best time to go on a Tanzania safari?” The truth is, it depends on what you want to see. From the heart-pounding river crossings of the Great Migration to the quiet beauty of the calving season, every time of year offers something different.
So let’s break it down by season, wildlife, and experience to help you find the perfect time for your adventure.
Dry Season: June to October – Top Wildlife Viewing & The Great Migration
If your goal is game viewing, this is the best time for your Tanzania safari. During the dry season, animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. The grass is shorter, the roads are better, and the skies are clear.
Highlights:
- Wildebeest Migration & River Crossings (August to October)
Watch thousands of wildebeest and zebras take on the Mara River in the Northern Serengeti. This Great Migration moment is full of drama, predators, and emotion. - Big Cats are more visible – lions, leopards, and cheetahs love the dry weather.
- Ideal weather for safaris – warm days, cool mornings, low risk of rain.
Best Months:
September and October offer great wildlife viewing with fewer crowds than August.
Green Season: December to March – Calving Season in the Southern Serengeti
This is Tanzania’s calving season, when wildebeest give birth to thousands of calves in the Southern Serengeti. It’s a stunning time to visit if you love baby animals, predator action, and lush green landscapes.
Why Travel in the Green Season:
- Calving season brings intense predator-prey interaction.
- The scenery is vibrant – perfect for photography.
- Migratory birds arrive, making it ideal for birdwatching.
- Lower prices and fewer tourists create a more intimate safari experience.
Best Months:
January, February and March are perfect for witnessing new life and exciting wildlife behavior.
Wet Season: April to May – When It’s Not Ideal
The long rains fall from March through May, and heavy rainfall can make some areas hard to reach. Roads get muddy, and thick grass makes spotting animals harder.
April to May in Tanzania: A Secret Season for Safari Deals
April is known for the long rains, and yes — some areas may be muddy and a few roads can flood. But here’s the upside:
- Fewer tourists,
- Lush, green landscapes,
- Incredible savings,
And a chance to see wildlife in a completely different way.
Best Advice: If you’re looking for the best safari deals and don’t mind a bit of rain, April to May is a smart choice. Go with flexibility, embrace the adventure, and enjoy a more intimate safari experience — often with entire parks to yourself!
Tip: April is a favorite for photographers and seasoned travelers who want raw, untamed nature without the high-season crowds.
November: Short Rains, Quick Getaways
In November, Tanzania experiences short rains, but safaris are still very doable. The scenery starts to green up again, and there are fewer travelers.
Why Consider November:
- Good game viewing with a touch of rain.
- Good Prices
- Less dusty and a great time to enjoy parks before the holidays.
Summary Table: When to Go for What
| Season | Months | Safari Experience | Wildlife Highlights |
| Dry Season | June – Oct | Best game viewing, migration | River crossings, big cats |
| Green Season | Dec – Feb | Calving, lush scenery | Baby wildebeest, predator hunts |
| Long Rains | March – May | Challenging, off-season | Thick grass, hard-to-spot animals |
| Short Rains | November | Low crowds, mild rain | Birding, greener parks |
So… When Should You Visit?
There’s no wrong time to visit—just different kinds of safari experiences. Ask yourself:
- Do you want to see the Great Migration and thrilling river crossings?
- Are you drawn to the peace and beauty of the Green Season?
- Do you prefer to travel with fewer tourists?
- Is birdwatching or calving season on your bucket list?
Tanzania has something for everyone, all year round.
Still unsure when to go? Contact us, and we’ll help you plan a safari that’s perfect for your timing, interests, and travel style.
