When Is the Best Time to Travel to Tanzania?

Plan your safari with the seasons in mind for the most unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown to help you plan your ideal adventure:

June – October: Peak Safari Season (Dry Season)

Best for: General wildlife viewing, Great Migration, comfortable weather

  • Clear skies, little rainfall, and cooler temperatures make it the perfect time for game drives.

  • Animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.

  • The Great Wildebeest Migration is in full swing in the Serengeti, especially in July–September for dramatic river crossings.

✔ Recommended for first-timers and classic safaris.


November – March: Green Season (Short Rains & Calving Time)

Best for: Birdwatching, calving season, fewer crowds

  • Short rains in November and December turn the landscapes lush and green.

  • January through March is calving season in the Southern Serengeti, a magical time to witness newborn animals and predator action.

  • Excellent birdwatching with migratory species arriving.

✔ Great for photographers, seasoned travellers, and those seeking fewer tourists.

April – May: Long Rains (Low Season)

Best for: Budget travel, lush landscapes, quieter parks

  • This is Tanzania’s wettest period. Some camps close due to muddy roads.

  • Wildlife viewing can still be rewarding in Ngorongoro Crater and central Serengeti.

  • Fewer travelers mean great deals on luxury lodges and flights.

✔ Ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking solitude.


Quick Safari Planning Tips:

  • Migration Focus: Travel July–September for river crossings, or Jan–March for calving.

  • Avoiding Crowds: Visit in the shoulder months of May or November.

  • Zanzibar Beach Add-On? Visit June–October or December–March for sunshine and calm seas.