Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Wildlife, Weather & Budget

Discover the ideal safari season for your travel goals — whether it’s big cats, wildebeest migration, or great savings.

Introduction

Tanzania is a year-round safari destination — but not all months offer the same experiences. From the thundering Great Migration to lush green landscapes and quiet parks, each season offers something unique. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast chasing predators or a traveler seeking the best value, knowing the best time to visit Tanzania will help you plan your trip around what matters most to you.

In this guide, we break down Tanzania’s safari seasons by wildlife activity, weather conditions, and travel cost — so you can pick the right time for your unforgettable adventure.

Understanding Tanzania’s Safari Seasons

Tanzania has two main seasons: the dry season and the wet (green) season.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

June to October – The Dry Season

This is considered the peak safari season. Wildlife congregates around rivers and waterholes, and the thinning vegetation makes animal sightings easier.

• Best parks to visit: Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater

• Great for: Big cats, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, lions

• Travel conditions: Dry roads, clear skies, cooler temperatures

• Downside: Higher prices, popular parks can get crowded

December to March – The Green Season

The landscape transforms with green grasses and flowering trees. Wildlife is still present (especially in the south Serengeti), and this is the calving season for wildebeest — which means predators are very active.

• Best parks to visit: Southern Serengeti, Ndutu, Ngorongoro

• Great for: Predator action, calving scenes, birdwatching

• Travel conditions: Warmer, possible short showers

• Downside: Some roads may be muddy, humidity increases

November – The Short Rains

November marks a brief rainy period, but it’s a fantastic time to travel. The rains are usually short and fall in the late afternoon. This is the start of the shoulder season, with lower prices and increasing bird activity.

• Best parks to visit: Ngorongoro, Manyara, Tarangire

• Great for: Flamingos, raptors, antelope births

• Travel conditions: Green but not muddy

• Downside: Slightly unpredictable rain patterns

April to May – The Long Rains

This is the wettest time of year, and many lodges in the Serengeti close temporarily due to flooding. However, if you don’t mind some rain and want the lowest prices of the year, this could be a peaceful, lush escape.

• Best parks to visit: Ngorongoro Crater (elevated, fewer floods), Arusha NP

• Great for: Budget travelers, birders, green scenery

• Travel conditions: Heavy rain, slippery roads

• Downside: Migration is far west, some camps close

Best Time to See the Great Migration

If your goal is to witness the wildebeest migration, timing is everything. Here’s a quick month-by-month overview:

Best time for Mara River crossings: August to October
Best time for calving season: January to early March

Best Time for Lower Prices & Fewer Crowds

If budget is a concern or you want to avoid peak-season crowds, consider:

• November – Short rains, but still great wildlife viewing

• March – End of green season, fewer tourists, active predators

• May – Deep low season, heavy discounts, lush landscapes

During these months, many lodges and camps offer 20–40% off regular rates. You also get more flexibility and quieter game drives.

Best Time by Activity

FAQs: Choosing the Best Safari Season

Q: Is the wet season a bad time to go on safari?
A: Not at all. Wildlife is still active, and the landscapes are lush and photogenic. You’ll just need to prepare for a few muddy roads and occasional showers.

Q: Are animals harder to find during the green season?
A: No — many herbivores give birth in this period, attracting predators. You may not see large herds, but you’ll see plenty of activity.

Q: What if I can only travel in April or May?
A: Consider parks like Ngorongoro Crater or private conservancies. You’ll enjoy the solitude and lower costs — just bring good rain gear!

Final Thoughts

There’s no single “best time” to visit Tanzania — just the best time for your goals. Whether you want migration drama, intimate wildlife encounters, or great value for money, there’s a season that fits.

Still unsure? Let us help. Our team will build your trip around your interests, travel window, and budget — making sure you’re in the right place at the right time.