Tanzania Safari Seasons Explained

The Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti usually take place from July to October, when huge herds of wildebeest and zebras plunge through crocodile-filled water. Crossings depend on rainfall and herd movements, so allow at least three nights in the northern Serengeti and choose a well-located camp close to the main crossing points along the river.

The calving season takes place on the short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, usually from late January to March, with a peak in February. Thousands of calves are born each day, attracting lions, cheetahs and hyenas. It is one of the most exciting and rewarding times for predator action, wildlife photography and memorable game drives.

The best months to climb Kilimanjaro are January to early March and June to October, when the mountain is drier and summit views are clearer. June to October is cooler and busier, while January and February are warmer. Climbing during the long rains in April and May is possible but wetter, colder and more challenging for most climbers.

Zanzibar is best from June to October and from December to February, when the weather is sunny and dry with warm sea temperatures. March to May brings heavy rain and some hotels close, while November has short showers. Zanzibar combines easily with a safari at almost any time of year outside the long rains from March to May.

Birdwatching is excellent all year in Tanzania, but the best season is November to April, when migratory birds from Europe and Asia arrive and many resident species show breeding colours. Lake Manyara, Tarangire, the Serengeti and Arusha National Park are all very rewarding, and the green season landscapes make bird photography especially attractive and colourful for keen photographers.

For the best value, travel during the green season from March to May or in November, when many lodges offer lower rates and the parks are quiet. You still enjoy good wildlife viewing and lush scenery, especially in Ngorongoro Crater. Early June and late October can also offer a pleasing balance of value and wildlife.

The Serengeti is excellent all year because the Great Migration moves through different areas with the seasons. Visit the southern plains and Ndutu from December to March for calving, the western corridor around June, and the northern Serengeti from July to October for river crossings. Resident predators can be seen year-round in the central Seronera area.

Ngorongoro Crater is a year-round destination, as its permanent water and grazing keep wildlife on the crater floor in every season. The dry months from June to October offer the easiest viewing, while the green season brings fewer vehicles. Mornings on the crater rim can be very cold from June to August, so pack warm layers.

Tarangire is at its best during the dry season from June to October, when large herds of elephants, zebras, wildebeest and buffaloes gather along the Tarangire River, the only permanent water in the area. In the wet season animals disperse widely, but the park is green, quiet and excellent for birdwatching, photography and peaceful game drives.

Lake Manyara can be visited all year. The dry season from June to October is best for general game viewing, including elephants and the park's famous tree-climbing lions, while the wet season from November to April is ideal for birdwatching, with flamingos, pelicans and many migratory species around the alkaline lake and its lush groundwater forests.

The southern parks of Ruaha and Nyerere are best from June to October, when the dry season concentrates wildlife around rivers and lakes. These remote parks offer quiet game drives, walking and boat safaris. Many camps close during the long rains from about March to May, when some roads become impassable, so plan your southern safari dates accordingly.

Chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream is possible all year, but the dry season from July to October is usually best, when forest trails are easier and chimpanzees are often found lower on the slopes. The wet months bring slippery paths and heavier rain, though the forests are beautifully green, lush and very quiet.

The best camps for river crossings and calving fill quickly, especially from July to October and around Christmas and New Year. Booking six to twelve months ahead gives you the widest choice of lodges, locations and balloon flights. Green season trips can often be arranged at shorter notice, with more flexibility, quieter parks and better rates.

Rain in Tanzania usually falls as heavy afternoon showers rather than all-day downpours, leaving mornings clear for game drives. The green season brings lush scenery, newborn animals, wonderful birdlife and fewer vehicles at sightings. With a good, experienced guide and a sturdy safari vehicle, rainy season safaris are rewarding, peaceful, memorable and excellent value for money.

The Great Migration follows the rains, so its timing changes slightly every year. Rather than fixing a single location, plan your safari around the expected herd movements for your month and allow enough nights in the right area. Our guides stay in touch with each other daily to find the herds for you on every game drive.

Combine parks that suit your travel month. In the dry season, add Tarangire and the northern Serengeti; in the calving season, focus on Ndutu and Ngorongoro; in the green season, enjoy Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara and the central Serengeti. A private safari lets us adjust your route to match current conditions, wildlife movements and your own interests.