Tanzania is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, offering incredible wildlife encounters year-round. But if you're wondering, "When is safari season in Tanzania?", the answer depends on what you want to experience—whether it’s the Great Migration, predator sightings, or lush green landscapes.

This guide breaks down Tanzania’s safari seasons, including:
✔ Peak season vs. low season pros and cons
✔ Best months for the Great Migration
✔ Ideal times for birdwatching and photography
✔ Regional variations in weather and wildlife

By the end, you’ll know exactly when safari season in Tanzania falls based on your travel goals, preferences, and expectations.

When Is Safari Season in Tanzania? Understanding the Climates

Tanzania has two main weather cycles—dry and wet seasons—which play a major role in shaping safari conditions and determining the best times for specific wildlife experiences.

1. Dry Season (June – October) – Peak Safari Season

This period is widely considered the prime time for safaris in Tanzania. If you're seeking the most rewarding game-viewing opportunities, this is often the best choice.

Why it's ideal:
✔ Wildlife congregates around waterholes, making animals easier to spot
✔ Skies are mostly clear, ensuring great light for photography
✔ Roads are accessible and less muddy, making travel between parks smoother
✔ The Great Migration river crossings—some of the most dramatic wildlife scenes on Earth—take place during this time

Best for:
– First-time safari travelers
– Wildlife photographers
– Those prioritizing high-density sightings of big cats, elephants, and herbivores
– Tourists aiming to witness the famous Mara River crossings in the Northern Serengeti

Keep in mind: This is the busiest (and priciest) time of year, so early bookings are strongly advised.

2. Short Rainy Season (November – December) – Shoulder Season

This brief rainy window is a transitional phase between dry spells, offering a unique safari experience with lighter crowds and lush surroundings.

What to expect:
✔ Afternoon or overnight showers that rarely disrupt full-day game drives
✔ Greener scenery perfect for landscape photography
✔ The arrival of migratory bird species, adding color and movement to your sightings
✔ Greater lodge availability and more flexible itineraries

Best for:
– Budget-conscious travelers looking for quality at better rates
– Photographers seeking vibrant backgrounds
– Safari-goers who don’t mind a few showers in exchange for solitude

3. Long Rainy Season (March – May) – Low Season

Often underestimated, this is Tanzania's true off-season, and while it's the wettest time of the year, it comes with its own advantages.

What makes it special:
✔ Dramatic thunderstorms and plush green landscapes
✔ Calving season for many animals—especially wildebeest—creating rich predator-prey activity
✔ Fewer tourists, meaning you’ll often have entire sightings to yourself
✔ The most competitive rates on accommodations and private safaris

Best for:
– Avid birdwatchers
– Adventurers who prefer uncrowded parks
– Repeat safari travelers who’ve seen the "classic" season and want something new
– Couples or solo travelers looking for peaceful wilderness experiences

When Is Safari Season in Tanzania for the Great Migration?

One of the most sought-after safari experiences on Earth, the Great Wildebeest Migration takes place year-round but moves across different regions of the Serengeti.

Here’s a seasonal migration breakdown to help you plan:

December – March: Southern Serengeti
– Best for the calving season, where thousands of wildebeest give birth daily
– Prime time for predator action as lions, hyenas, and cheetahs follow the herds

April – June: Central to Western Serengeti
– Herds begin moving toward the Grumeti River
– The Western Corridor offers dramatic scenes of river crossings, though less publicized than the Mara

July – October: Northern Serengeti
– The famous Mara River crossings occur, with heart-pounding scenes of wildebeest dodging crocodiles
– Iconic for photographers and wildlife lovers alike

Pro Tip: The precise timing shifts slightly each year due to rainfall patterns. Always consult with a trusted safari planner for real-time insights.

Regional Variations: When Is Safari Season in Tanzania’s Top Parks?

Tanzania’s diverse ecosystem means that safari timing varies depending on the specific park or region. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Serengeti National Park

✔ Best: June – October
✔ Good Alternative: January – March (calving season)
– World-famous for the Great Migration and predator-prey interactions
– Offers excellent game viewing year-round, with changing scenery and wildlife behavior

2. Ngorongoro Crater

✔ Year-Round Destination
✔ Peak Viewing: June – September
– Due to its enclosed nature and rich resources, wildlife remains consistently abundant
– Excellent visibility during the dry season enhances crater floor exploration

3. Tarangire National Park

✔ Peak Safari Season: July – October
✔ Low Season Perks: April – May
– Famous for massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees
– During dry months, animals congregate around the Tarangire River in dramatic numbers

4. Selous Game Reserve & Ruaha National Park (Southern Circuit)

✔ Best Time: June – October
✔ Birding Peak: November – April
– Lesser-visited parks that offer raw, untamed landscapes and excellent predator sightings
– During the rainy season, rivers swell and migratory birds flourish, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts

Final Thought: When Is Safari Season in Tanzania for You?

The best time to go on safari in Tanzania truly depends on your personal preferences:

• Want to see iconic wildlife in dry, open settings? Visit June–October
• Looking for green landscapes and savings? Try November–December
• Interested in birds, babies, or quiet parks? Consider March–May
• Chasing the Great Migration? Follow the herds year-round across Serengeti regions

By aligning your travel dates with your interests—whether it's big cats, baby antelopes, or rare birds—you’ll discover your own perfect safari season in Tanzania.

FAQs About Tanzania's Safari Seasons