The best time Tanzania safari experiences happen depends entirely on what you want to see and experience. Tanzania offers world-class wildlife viewing all year, but different months deliver different highlights — from dramatic Great Migration river crossings to peaceful green landscapes filled with newborn wildlife.

If you are planning your first safari, understanding the seasons will help you choose the perfect timing for your dream adventure.

This detailed month-by-month guide explains weather patterns, wildlife movements, pricing seasons, and travel advantages — so you can confidently plan your Tanzania safari.

Understanding Tanzania’s Safari Seasons

Before breaking down each month, it’s important to understand the three main safari seasons:

1. Dry Season (June – October) – Peak wildlife viewing

2. Green Season (November – March) – Calving season and fewer crowds

3. Long Rain Season (April – May) – Low season with lush scenery

Each season affects animal behavior, park accessibility, and travel costs.

January – March: Calving Season & Predator Action

For many safari experts, this is secretly the best time Tanzania safari lovers can visit, especially for dramatic wildlife encounters.

What Happens:

• Over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born in the southern Serengeti.

• Predators (lions, cheetahs, hyenas) are extremely active.

• Landscapes are green and beautiful.

Weather:

• Warm temperatures

• Occasional short rains

• Excellent photography lighting

Best For:

• Wildlife photographers

• First-time visitors wanting action

• Families (easier wildlife sightings)

If your goal is to witness nature’s most intense predator-prey interactions, January and February are exceptional months.

April – May: The Long Rains (Low Season)

These are Tanzania’s wettest months.

What to Expect:

• Heavy rains, especially in April

• Fewer tourists

• Lower lodge prices

• Some camps close temporarily

Advantages:

• Best safari discounts

• Dramatic skies for photography

• Quiet parks with minimal vehicles

While not traditionally considered the best time Tanzania safari travelers choose, this period suits budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer solitude.

June: Start of the Dry Season

June marks the beginning of prime safari conditions.

Why June Is Excellent:

• Rain stops and landscapes begin drying

• Animals start gathering near water sources

• Migration begins moving north

Crowds are still moderate compared to peak months.

If you want excellent wildlife viewing without peak-season pricing, June is a smart choice.

 

July – September: Peak Safari & River Crossings

This period is widely regarded as the best time Tanzania safari experience for classic Big Five viewing.

Highlights:

• Great Migration river crossings in Northern Serengeti

• High wildlife density

• Clear skies and cool evenings

• Minimal vegetation for easy animal spotting

Wildlife Visibility:

• Lions resting in open plains

• Elephants gathering near water

• Leopards easier to track

• Hippos clustered in shrinking rivers

This is high season:

• Premium lodge rates

• Advanced booking required (6–12 months ahead)

• More safari vehicles in popular areas

For first-time safari visitors, this is the safest and most reliable period.

October: Transition Month

October remains dry but slightly warmer.

Why It’s Underrated:

• Excellent predator sightings

• Slightly fewer tourists than August

• Wildlife highly concentrated around water

Many safari planners consider October one of the most balanced months in terms of experience and crowd levels.

November – December: Short Rains & Green Return

The short rains arrive in November but rarely disrupt safari plans.

Benefits:

• Fewer tourists

• Lower prices

• Fresh green scenery

• Bird migration begins

December is popular for holiday travelers, especially families.

If you prefer a balance between wildlife, beauty, and moderate pricing, this period can still be an excellent time Tanzania safari planners recommend.

Month-by-Month Quick Summary