Tanzania is one of the world's most incredible safari destinations, offering spectacular landscapes and the famous Great Wildebeest Migration. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park and the beaches of Zanzibar, it offers something special throughout the year.
The best overall time
The best time for a Tanzania safari is generally the dry season, from June to October. Wildlife is easier to spot because animals gather around rivers, lakes and other water sources, and the vegetation is less dense. Because this is the popular season, some parks and lodges can be busier and accommodation prices may be higher.
When should you visit?
| Choose | If you want |
|---|---|
| June to October | Excellent general wildlife viewing and dry weather |
| December to March | The calving season and incredible predator action |
| April to May | Greener landscapes, fewer crowds and potentially better value |
| July to October | The Northern Serengeti and dramatic river crossings |
The Great Migration by season
The migration moves throughout the year, so the best location depends on the month you travel. See exactly where the herds usually are in our Great Migration calendar.
- December to March: calving season in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, when thousands of young wildebeest are born. Lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyenas follow the herds.
- April to May: the green season. The rains bring beautiful landscapes and quieter parks, though they can affect road conditions in remote areas.
- June to July: the migration moves through the western and central Serengeti, with dry weather and outstanding wildlife viewing.
- July to October: many travellers visit the Northern Serengeti hoping to witness dramatic crossings of the crocodile-filled rivers.
Because the migration is a natural event, the exact location and timing can change with rainfall and environmental conditions.
Best time for each park
Tarangire National Park is best in the dry season, especially June to October, when many animals gather around the Tarangire River.
Ngorongoro Crater offers excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year, thanks to its permanent water supply and large concentration of animals. The dry season offers pleasant weather, while the green season brings beautiful scenery and fewer visitors.
Zanzibar pairs well with a safari from June to October, or from December to February, when you can combine the Serengeti calving season with the island's beautiful beaches.
Tanzania safari by month
- January and February: excellent for the Serengeti calving season and predator sightings.
- March: good wildlife viewing, with the beginning of seasonal changes in some areas.
- April and May: the green season brings beautiful landscapes, fewer crowds and potentially better safari prices.
- June: the beginning of the dry season and an excellent time for wildlife viewing.
- July and August: among the most popular months, with excellent wildlife viewing and Great Migration opportunities.
- September and October: excellent dry-season months, particularly in the Serengeti and Northern Tanzania.
- November: a quieter period with changing landscapes and fewer visitors.
- December: a wonderful time for a safari as the migration moves toward the southern Serengeti.
Plan your safari with Lumara Expedition
We create Tanzania safaris around your interests, budget and preferred dates. Whether you dream of the Great Migration, the Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire's elephants or a Zanzibar beach holiday, our team can help you create the perfect itinerary.
