Best Time To Visit Tanzania (Month by Month)

The best time to visit Tanzania is during the Dry season, from June to October, when wildlife viewing is generally at its best. This is also the best time to see the wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park. The most reliable time to see the wildebeest calving is January to February. The Southern and Western circuit parks are best visited during the Dry season (June to October), unlike the more popular Northern circuit parks that can be visited year-round.

• Optimal Best Time to Visit: June to October (all parks), January to February (Serengeti for wildebeest calving)
• Peak/ high Season: July to March (Northern circuit parks; all get crowded), June to October (Southern and Western circuit parks; only Nyerere gets crowded)
• Off-Peak/low Season: April and May (many lodges are closed in the Southern and Western circuit parks)
• Best Weather: June to October (little to no rainfall)
• Worst Weather: March to May (peak of the wet season)
• May to June: Wildebeest Migration in western Serengeti  Corridor – Grumeti river. 

January to February

Best Time To Visit Tanzania (Month by Month) January to February is ideal for visiting Tanzania. During this period, the weather is warm and dry, perfect for wildlife viewing in national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The Great Migration is active, with wildebeests calving, attracting predators. Coastal regions, including Zanzibar, offer beautiful beaches and excellent diving conditions, making this time perfect for both safaris and beach relaxation.

June to October – Dry Season 

Tanzania’s dry season, spanning from June to October, is characterized by clear skies, sunny days, and cooler temperatures. This period offers optimal conditions for wildlife viewing, particularly in popular national parks such as Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The sparse vegetation makes it easier to spot animals gathering around water sources, providing visitors with unforgettable safari experiences. Additionally, the dry weather reduces the risk of encountering mosquitoes, making it a more comfortable time to explore the diverse landscapes of Tanzania.

November to May – Wet Season

The wet season in Tanzania, from November to May, brings refreshing rains that rejuvenate the land and support lush vegetation growth. While some may be deterred by the rainfall, this time of year offers its own unique advantages for travelers. The landscapes transform into vibrant shades of green, creating picturesque backdrops for photography enthusiasts. The abundance of water sources during this period also means that wildlife disperses across the parks, providing opportunities to witness animal migration and newborn offspring.

Shoulder Seasons (March to May, and November to December)

The shoulder seasons in Tanzania, from March to May, and November to December, offer a balance between the dry and rainy seasons. Travelers can experience moderate weather conditions, fewer tourists, and lower prices on safaris and accommodations. Exploring destinations like Zanzibar during these times can provide a more relaxed and authentic experience.

Best Time to Visit Major Parks in Tanzania

The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater provide excellent wildlife viewing year-round. For witnessing the migration, June to October are the prime months, while January to February is ideal for the wildebeest calving. The dry months, from June to October, offer superb wildlife viewing across Tanzania. During this dry season, Tarangire, Manyara, Arusha Park, Kilimanjaro Park along with the Southern and Western circuit parks—including Katavi, Mikumi, Nyerere, and Ruaha—are at their best. Tanzania, with its breathtaking landscapes and incredible biodiversity, is home to some of the most renowned national parks and conservation areas in the world. To make the most of your visit, it is essential to know the best times to explore these natural wonders. We will guide you through the optimal periods to visit each of the major parks in Tanzania.

Tarangire National Park: Best Time to Visit: June to October

Tarangire National Park, known for its dense elephant population and ancient baobab trees, offers the best game viewing during the dry season from June to October. During these months, the wildlife congregates around the Tarangire River, making it easier to spot animals such as lions, leopards, and various antelope species. The dry landscape also provides stunning photographic opportunities.

Serengeti National Park: Best Time to Visit: June to September and January to February

The Serengeti is world-famous for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains in search of greener pastures. The best times to visit are during the dry season from June to September, when the migration is in full swing and predators are more visible. January to February is also ideal as it coincides with the calving season, offering a unique spectacle of newborn animals and predator interactions.

Ruaha National Park: Best Time to Visit: June to October

Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest, is less frequented but boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife and landscapes. The dry season from June to October is the best time to visit, as animals gather around the Great Ruaha River. This park is especially known for its large prides of lions, as well as populations of wild dogs, cheetahs, and elephants.

Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)

Nyerere National Park, one of Africa’s largest protected areas, offers an unforgettable safari experience. The dry season from June to October is the optimal time for wildlife viewing, as animals are drawn to the Rufiji River and other water sources. The park is home to a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species.

Ngorongoro Crater: Best Time to Visit: June to October and December to February

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a natural wonder with its steep walls and lush vegetation. The best times to visit are during the dry season from June to October and the short dry spell in December to February. These periods provide excellent conditions for spotting the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—as well as a multitude of other species.

Lake Manyara National Park: Best Time to Visit: June to October

Lake Manyara National Park is famed for its tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos. The dry season from June to October is the best time to visit. As the wildlife is more concentrated around the shrinking lake and other water sources. The park also offers opportunities for canoeing and bird watching, making it a versatile destination for nature lovers.

Katavi National Park: Best Time to Visit: June to October

Katavi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most remote and untouched parks, offering a truly wild experience. The dry season from June to October is the best time to visit. As large herds of buffalo and elephants gather around the Katuma River and floodplains. The park also provides excellent opportunities for seeing hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitats.

Gombe National Park: Best Time to Visit: July to October and February to June

Gombe National Park, renowned for its chimpanzee populations. Best visited during the dry season from July to October and the short rainy season from February to June. These periods offer better conditions for trekking and observing chimpanzees in their natural forest habitat. The park also boasts a rich variety of bird species and other primates.

Kilimanjaro National Park: Best Time to Visit: January to March and June to October

Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, attracts climbers from around the world. The best times to climb are during the dry seasons from January to March and June to October. These periods provide more stable weather conditions and clearer skies, enhancing the overall trekking experience. The varied climate zones on the ascent offer unique ecological and scenic diversity.

Mkomazi National Park: Best Time to Visit: June to October

Mkomazi National Park, a vital refuge for endangered species like the black rhino and African wild dog. Best visited during the dry season from June to October. During this time, wildlife viewing is easier as animals gather around water sources. The park’s scenic landscapes, including the Pare and Usambara mountains, add to the appeal of visiting in the dry season.

Zanzibar Beach Vacation: Best Time to Visit: June to October and December to February

Zanzibar, with its pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage, is an ideal destination for a relaxing beach vacation. The best times to visit are during the dry seasons from June to October and December to February. These periods offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and calm seas. Perfect for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the historic Stone Town.

For those planning a trip to Tanzania. Understanding the best times to visit each major park ensures a more enriching and memorable experience. From witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti to relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar. Tanzania offers diverse and unforgettable adventures year-round.

Final Thoughts: Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Ultimately, the best time to visit Tanzania depends on your personal preferences and the experiences you seek. Whether you choose to explore during the dry season for optimal wildlife sightings or embrace the lushness of the wet season. Tanzania’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems are sure to leave a lasting impression. By considering the distinct characteristics of each season. You can plan a trip that aligns perfectly with your interests and ensures a memorable adventure in this captivating East African destination.