When to Visit Tanzania
Tanzania is a year-round destination, but choosing the right time to visit depends on your interests, travel style, and what you hope to experience. From iconic wildlife encounters to vibrant landscapes and fewer crowds, each month offers something unique.
January – March: Calving Season & Lush Landscapes
This is the heart of the green season in southern Serengeti and the Ndutu area, where hundreds of thousands of wildebeest give birth. The plains are alive with newborns and predators, making it a thrilling time for game viewing. The landscapes are green and vibrant, and birdlife is abundant with migratory species. Temperatures are warm, and afternoon showers are common but short-lived.
April – May: Quiet Season & Lush Scenery
The long rains arrive, transforming the landscapes into a lush, emerald paradise. While some camps may close and roads can be muddy, this is a peaceful time to visit for photographers and travelers seeking solitude. Rates are lower, and the parks are almost empty, offering exclusive access to nature.
June – Early July: Start of Dry Season & Grumeti Crossing
Rainfall subsides, and the dry season begins. Wildlife becomes easier to spot as vegetation thins and animals gather around water sources. In the western corridor of the Serengeti, the wildebeest approach and cross the Grumeti River, facing crocodile-infested waters. This is a fantastic time for serious safari-goers looking for action without high-season crowds.
Mid-July – October: Peak Safari Season & Mara River Crossings
This is the most popular time to visit Tanzania. The weather is dry and cool, making for comfortable travel. The Great Migration reaches the Mara River in the northern Serengeti, and the dramatic river crossings are a major highlight. Game viewing is exceptional, and predators are highly active. Advance bookings are essential during this peak season.
November – December: Short Rains & Birdwatching
Short rains bring freshness to the plains without disrupting travel too much. It’s the start of the migration’s return south to the Ndutu area. Birding is superb during this time, as migratory birds arrive in large numbers. The parks are less crowded, and some accommodations offer off-season deals.
Summary Table: Month-by-Month Travel Snapshot
| Month | Wildlife Highlights | Safari Conditions | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Calving season, big cats | Green, lush, warm | Low–Moderate |
| February | Peak calving, predator action | Green season, short rains | Moderate |
| March | End of calving, vibrant landscapes | Warm, occasional rain | Moderate |
| April | Fewer tourists, green parks | Long rains, some closures | Low |
| May | Excellent for photography | Very green, heavy rain | Very Low |
| June | Dry season begins, Grumeti migration | Clear, mild, dry | Moderate |
| July | Migration builds toward Mara River | Ideal safari weather | High |
| August | Mara River crossings, predator action | Peak game viewing | Very High |
| September | Migration in north Serengeti | Dry, clear, excellent | High |
| October | Late river crossings, elephants in Tarangire | Warm, dry | Moderate–High |
| November | Short rains begin, birding peak | Greening landscapes | Moderate |
| December | Migration returns south, festive season | Short rains, lush | Moderate–High |
Need help planning your trip?
Let our expert safari planners guide you in choosing the best time for your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure.