When is the Best time to Do a Tanzania Safari?

The best time for both driving and walking safaris is the dry season from June through October. Many of the animals are more active during this season giving you the best chance to see them all!

Most days during the dry season see temperatures between 20℃/68℉ to 30℃/86℉. Mornings can be a little cold, so make sure to wear layers you can shed in the afternoon as the weather warms up.

There are a few parks that are better during the wet season. Arusha National Park has much more active birds during the wet months. Other places, like Ngorongoro Crater, have less dense bush making it easy to see the animals no matter what time of year you visit.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania Month-by-Month Guide

Whatever time you decide to visit Tanzania, here is what you can expect on your safari for each month.

January & February

This is the low season for safaris which means lower prices and fewer crowds. Many birds migrate during this season so it’s a great time to do a safari if you’re a bird lover!

If you’re interested in seeing Wildebeest calves being born, come in February. You will get a chance to see over 500,000 calves being born. You might even see them take their first steps.

March, April, & May

For the best safari experience, try to avoid these months as much as possible. It’s the peak heavy rainy season. Many safari lodges are closed during this time. If you’re planning to climb Kilimanjaro, most companies will not take you as it’s extremely risky. The main reason to travel during this time is if you’re on a strict budget as prices are very low.

The high humidity during these months makes the weather unpleasant especially when trying to do driving safaris. The end of May sees drier days so you can book the beginning of your safari during this time and possibly save some money!

June, July, & August

These are the best months to do safaris. The months see hardly any rainfall and the temperatures are very mild. If you’re planning to go to Serengeti, you can also see the Great Wilderbeest Migration! Keep in mind prices will be higher during these two months as it’s peak vacation time.

August is typically the best and busiest month for northern circuit safaris. It’s the best time to go to Serengeti National park, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.

September & October

You can visit during the end of the dry season in these two months. The animals are active and the bush is less dense making it easier to spot animals in the parks. It’s also a great time to Climb Kilimanjaro since there is little to no rainfall.

September is the best month to visit Tarangire National Park if you’re interested in seeing elephants. Many people also come to Mahale Mountains National Park in October to see the chimpanzees.

November & December

This is the start of the rainy season, but it only rains for a short time each day. Rather than downpouring like the heavy rain months, November & December have light rains, especially in the northern parks. 

You can still visit all the national parks and see all the animals. Some photographers prefer these months since the vegetation is turning green and lush. Migratory bird season is also happening in Nyerere and Tarangire National Park.

Best Time to Visit Serengeti

Many people wonder about the best time to visit Serengeti National park. This depends on what you want to see and if you are interested in the Great Migration.

There are two main reasons people come to the Serengeti: to see the Great Migration or to witness calving season. They happen at two very different times of the year.

If you’re coming for the Great Migration, you’ll want to book your safari from late June to August. In June and July, the Wildebeests are flocking into western Serengeti. As August approaches, they start to move towards Kenya by crossing the Mara River.

If you’re more interested in calving season, you should come in January through early March. You’ll have the chance to see animals being born and to see young animals learning to walk for the first time.

When Should I Plan to Do a Tanzania Safari?

Deciding which month to visit Tanzania for a safari is one of the most important questions that come up when safari planning. You can book a safari any time of the year, but some months are much better than others.

No matter when you choose to visit, Tanzania is ready to welcome you! 

It’s never too early to start planning, get in touch today. Contant us