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Nomad Drive
Nomad Drive

Best Time to Visit
Tanzania for Safari

In a country so large and diverse, it pays to have expert advice about when each aspect of Tanzania is at its peak. We’ll give you month-by-month guidance about animal behaviour, weather, travel conditions and visitor numbers, along with answering frequently asked questions. There are options for any choice, whether it is a luxury and private safari, a family adventure, relaxing in Zanzibar, or even climbing Kilimanjaro. In a country so large and diverse, it pays to have expert advice about when each aspect of Tanzania is at its peak. We’ll give you month-by-month guidance about animal behaviour, weather, travel conditions and visitor numbers, along with answering frequently asked questions. There are options for any choice, whether it is a luxury and private safari, a family adventure, relaxing in Zanzibar, or even climbing Kilimanjaro.
In a country so large and diverse, it pays to have expert advice about when each aspect of Tanzania is at its peak. We’ll give you month-by-month guidance about animal behaviour, weather, travel conditions and visitor numbers, along with answering frequently asked questions. There are options for any choice, whether it is a luxury and private safari, a family adventure, relaxing in Zanzibar, or even climbing Kilimanjaro. In a country so large and diverse, it pays to have expert advice about when each aspect of Tanzania is at its peak. We’ll give you month-by-month guidance about animal behaviour, weather, travel conditions and visitor numbers, along with answering frequently asked questions. There are options for any choice, whether it is a luxury and private safari, a family adventure, relaxing in Zanzibar, or even climbing Kilimanjaro.
When to Go on a Luxury Safari to Tanzania & Zanzibar
The months of July to September, the dry season, are considered to be the best months for a Tanzania safari. It’s then that the Great Migration is in full swing and can be enjoyed in privacy or as a family. You can also spot the Big 5 and countless other species, trek in Mahale to see chimps, climb Kilimanjaro, or enjoy a beach holiday in Zanzibar.

However, there is plenty to experience outside of these months, and the best time to visit will depend on the activities you are interested in and the wildlife you'd like to spot. Tanzania's seasons and wildlife numbers are governed by the rains, so your experience will vary depending on when you choose to travel.

Located just south of the Equator, Tanzania has generally dry, warm weather. The exception is from mid-April to mid-June, when the main rains arrive. Tanzania also sees some rain for part of November. These November “short rains” don’t really interfere with your safari. The coast and Zanzibar receive more rainfall and are hotter and more humid than the inland safari regions.

Below we share a month-by-month seasonal guide and respond to your most popular Tanzania safari questions.
Game Drive Zebra Wildebeest One Nature Nyaruswiga 392023 Jan

JANUARY - Gathering for the Great Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti

You really can’t beat January for your trip to Tanzania. First of all, it’s time for the Great Migration: two million wildebeest, zebra, and antelope are moving across the Serengeti accompanied by large prides of by now well-fed lion, licking their lips.

At this stage, the largest numbers are to be found between the southern Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. There are also large numbers of animals to see in the Nyerere National Park, in particular giraffe, zebra, and buffalo.

Just after the short rains, the landscape is green and lush, and visitor numbers are relatively low.
Africa Tanzania Serengeti Buffalo Crater Ss
Africa Tanzania Asilia Ubuntu Great Migration
Africa Tanzania Giraffes Ss
Chimpanze 315298 Feb

FEBRUARY - Calving Season in the Serengeti & Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale

Birth is a remarkable thing, whatever the species, and visiting Tanzania in February you’ll be first on the scene as wildebeest calves take their first faltering steps in this world. In a matter of weeks some 600,000 calves will be delivered.

February is an ideal time to see the wildebeest birthing in the Ngorongoro Crater before tracking chimpanzee through the Mahale Mountains. This incredible combination of experiences is easy to enjoy in February.
Africa Tanzania Serengeti Istock 1386773264 Credit Kencanning
Africa Tanzania Serergeti Istock 177762020 Credit Stuports
Africa Tanzania Mahale Istock 157593757 Credit Guenterguni
Sunset Boat Safari Rufiji River Roho Ya Selous Nyerere

MARCH - Travel with the Great Migration & Safari Off the Beaten Path

By March, the Great Migration is in full swing in the southern portion of the Serengeti, with enormous numbers of wildebeest, zebra and antelope moving northward across the plains. You could sit and wait for them in one place, but it’s far more exciting to journey with the animals on a mobile camping safari, getting a new viewpoint each day.

For a quieter alternative, Nyerere National Park offers a peaceful, away-from-the-crowds experience, with superb birding in March and gentle boat safaris along the Rufiji River — a tranquil counterpoint to the drama of the Serengeti plains. Round off your journey with barefoot relaxation on Zanzibar's white-sand beaches.
Family Relaxing Lounge Tent Serengetisafaricamp
Walkway To Kendwa Beach Zuri Zanzibar
Africa Tanzania Serengeti Zebra Herd In Serengeti Istock By Serengeti130
Tree Climbing Lion 013304 April May

APRIL & MAY - Green Season Safaris & Dramatic River Crossings

Thunderstorms of the long-rain ‘Masika’ season add drama to April and May days, but rains are far from constant and when it does come it makes the temperatures pleasantly cool. At the same time, the wildebeest are forced through the rising Grumeti River, dicing with death as the crocodile snap from below. Tree climbing lion and large herds of elephant move across to the shores of Lake Manyara. The rains arrive slightly later in the Ngorongoro Crater, and turn this vast caldera into a lush, verdant spectacle. April and May are prime months for birdwatching in all locations around Tanzania, and photos are all the better for the deep green foliage. Visitor numbers are also lower, making for more private safaris and more economical adventures.
Wildebeest Migration Ss 2
Tanzania, Home to the Great Migration
Unrivalled Safaris
Africa Tanzania Serengeti Rainbow Over Wildebeest Serengeti Istock 510240803 By Seppfriedhuber
Africa Tanzania Serengeti Istock 1358063108 Migration
Africa Tanzania Serengeti Gray Headed Kingfisher Istock 896441694
Wildlife In The Crater Seppfriedhuber 764631 June

JUNE - Western Serengeti Migration & Big Game in Ngorongoro Crater

In June, the migrating herds continue through the beautiful forested western corridor towards the Mara River. Travelling with them is a remarkably rewarding experience, particularly as this is the start of the dry season before most visitors arrive. June is a chance to be quiet, take stock, and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

The Ngorongoro Crater is likely still to be at its green best, so it’s ideal to add on as an additional highlight. Indeed, the crater is excellent in any month and has 25,000 animals to keep you busy!
Cheetah Yawn By Hu Chen 526064 Unsplash
Africa Tanzania Ngorongoro Crater Istock 1095646852 Credit Nnehring
Olakira Elephant In Camp
Roho Ya Selous Fly Camping Sundowners At The Fly Camping Site For The Night

JULY - Northern Serengeti Migration & Off-the-Grid Walking Safaris

July onwards is high season in Tanzania as the weather is guaranteed to be dry, and temperatures are comfortable. By July, the Great Migration has reached the remote northern Serengeti, where we can arrange superb viewing experiences on private concessions.

This is also a month when we recommend alternatives such as an adventurous walking safari with Andrew Moinaro in Ruaha or sleeping out beneath the stars in Nyerere National Park. From July, all the way through to October, time spent on Tanzania’s coast at places such as Zanzibar will always be rewarded with warm, dry weather.
Africa Tanzania Nyerere Np Elephant In The Selous
Africa Tanzania Serengeti Walking Safari 215629
Woman Enjoying Dhow Cruise Zanzibar
Children Camp Breakfast 342748 Aug

AUGUST - Family Safaris in the Northern Serengeti & Elephant Watching in Tarangire

As if designed with kids in mind, the Great Migration in the northern Serengeti is perfectly timed for school holidays. There’s no better place to lay down the memories of a lifetime than Mkombe’s House, a stunning private home near the border with Kenya. You’ll be far from the crowds but placed amid the migrating herds.

If there’s a way to improve this even further, it could be to spend a few days at Oliver’s Camp in Tarangire, where you can witness the elephant migration.
Child In Pool Mkombes House
Little Olivers Elephant Herd
Sundowners On Deck Mkombes House
Kilimanjaro Climbers Istock Thinair28 900252 Sept Oct

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER - Prime Wildlife Viewing & Kilimanjaro Climbs

By September and October, Tanzania’s dry season is well underway. Vegetation has died back, water levels are low, and wildlife gather at the remaining waterholes, creating superb conditions for game viewing. With schools back in session, these are ideal months for couples and independent travellers seeking quieter, more exclusive safaris. The dry weather also makes it easier to access the remote southern reserves by plane. Locations like Katavi, Mahale and Ruaha are all reachable by light aircraft, opening up some of Tanzania's most secluded safari experiences. It’s also a great time to climb Kilimanjaro, with clear skies, warm temperatures, and fewer people on the mountain. The short rains (Vuli) may arrive by late October, but rather than disrupting your journey, they often bring a welcome touch of drama to the landscape.
Jabali Ridge Infinity Pool
Africa Tanzania Impalas Drinking Ss
Jabali Ridge Leopard
Elephant In The Tarangire
Tanzania is there to be discovered
Luxury Safari Perfection
Dramatic Cloud With Rain Over The Landscape Of The Serengeti Tanzania Istock 1429665605

NOVEMBER - Spectacular Storms & Predators on the Move

November in Tanzania offers photographers dramatic thunder and lightning storms that light up the Serengeti skies at night, creating a unique atmosphere and excellent opportunities for striking images. During the day, there is still plenty of sunshine, making game drives comfortable and enjoyable.

The migrating herds begin moving south in search of fresh pastures after the short rains. The new growth attracts a variety of antelope species, which in turn draw predators like cheetah, often seen stalking and hunting in the open grasslands. November also marks the arrival of the first migratory bird species, signalling the start of Tanzania’s peak birding season.
Cheetah Wildebeest Tanzania Plains Istock 2151089320
Lion With Cubs Game Drive Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge
Von Der Deckens Hornbill On Bush Tarangire Istock 2150425410
The Wilderness Collection Jack Swynnerton 14

DECEMBER - A Wild Christmas in the Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar

Wake up on Christmas morning to guaranteed sightings of large herds at the Ngorongoro Crater, a spectacular natural amphitheatre stretching 10 miles wide. This remarkable ecosystem is home to around 25,000 animals, including elephants, lions, wildebeest, and buffalo, all thriving within its lush walls.

Meanwhile, the nearby island of Zanzibar enjoys dry weather and crystal-clear waters, perfect for diving enthusiasts and snorkelers eager to spot majestic whale sharks. With calm seas and excellent visibility, it’s an ideal time to explore vibrant coral reefs or simply relax on pristine white-sand beaches after your safari adventure.
Zanzibar Mnemba Island Arrival Family Greeting Butler On The Beach
Adult Female Showing Peace Sign While Snorkeling Around Tropical Starfish Zanzibar Istock 1080981140
Africa Tanzania Ngorongongo Crater Lake Magadi Ss
What You Need to Know about the Weather in Tanzania

Tanzania is located just south of the Equator and has generally dry, warm weather. The exception is from mid-April to mid-June when the main rains arrive. Tanzania also sees some rain for part of November. These November “short rains” don’t really interfere with your safari. The coast and Zanzibar receive more rainfall and are hotter and more humid than the inland safari regions.Tanzania is located just south of the Equator and has generally dry, warm weather. The exception is from mid-April to mid-June when the main rains arrive. Tanzania also sees some rain for part of November. These November “short rains” don’t really interfere with your safari. The coast and Zanzibar receive more rainfall and are hotter and more humid than the inland safari regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit the Serengeti?
The best time to visit the Serengeti depends on what you hope to experience. While it’s a truly year-round safari destination, the landscape and wildlife dynamics shift with the seasons. From January to March, the southern plains are teeming with new life during the wildebeest calving season, drawing predators and offering unforgettable sightings.

The dry season from June to October is ideal for classic big game viewing, with wildlife gathering around water sources. During July to October, the action moves north as the herds cross the Mara River – one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles. In November, the short rains return, bringing spectacular skies of thunder and lightning that set a striking backdrop for photography, while the Great Migration begins its journey south and migratory birds arrive, marking the start of excellent birding months.

By December, the wildebeest and zebra herds return to the lush southern Serengeti, feasting on fresh grass. Christmas and the festive season are a particularly special time to visit, with warm days, clear skies, and exceptional wildlife encounters.

The Serengeti is also a wonderful choice for families, with key school holiday periods – including February half-term, spring break, Easter, the summer holidays, and the October break – aligning beautifully with some of the year’s most rewarding safari moments.
When is the best time to visit Tanzania for the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is cyclical, with herds gathering in the south of the Serengeti in January and February for calving before moving north over the months to beyond the border with Kenya by August. From then until the end of the year, the herds track south through the eastern part of the region to return to their starting point for January again. Along the way, there are plains and rivers to cross, each with their own character. We can arrange for you to follow the migration by staying in a mobile camp or offer the alternative of a luxury lodge perfectly located for a river crossing. March to September see herds crossing the major rivers of the Serengeti, with the Grumeti River being reached in March and the Mara River in August and September.
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
One answer to that is to say that Zanzibar is the perfect way to end any safari, so the best time to relax on a beach will depend on your wildlife priorities. The Tanzanian coast experiences rainy periods from March to May, and from November to December, so if you want guaranteed sun, then we suggest June to October and January to February. The waters in Zanzibar are particularly clear in January and February.
When is the best time for a beach holiday in Tanzania?
With nearly 900 miles of Indian Ocean coastline, there are plenty of places to enjoy beaches in Tanzania. Zanzibar itself is more than just one island; it’s an archipelago which, alongside the main islands, comprises dozens of smaller islets and private island retreats such as Mnemba, Fanjove and Thanda. On Pemba, you’ll find the laid-back charm of Fundu Lagoon, and just a short boat ride away lies Jambangome, the island’s ancient capital.

Even on the main island of Unguja (commonly known as Zanzibar), there are beaches with different characters. For example, Kendwa isn’t tidal, so you can enjoy swimming and snorkelling all day. While many travellers combine Zanzibar with a safari, it also stands beautifully on its own as a luxury beach destination.

We recommend visiting between June and October, or during the shorter dry season in January and February, when the weather is warm, dry, and the sea is wonderfully calm.
When is the best time to combine Tanzania with Kenya?
It’s a great idea to combine these neighbouring and friendly countries, so consider a multi-centre trip that takes in both. Sharing a similar climate, the best time to see them is in the dry season of June to October, with January to February also being an option (with fewer visitors). Indeed, we often cater to people wanting to visit Kenya’s Masai Mara and the Serengeti of Tanzania so that they can get an unsurpassed experience of the Great Migration. A safari in Kenya followed by an ascent of Kilimanjaro is also popular, and good months for this are September and October.
When is the best time to visit the Ngorongoro Crater?
While some wildlife migrates in and out of the crater, the majority remains year-round, making Ngorongoro Crater a consistently rewarding safari destination in any season. Its reliability makes it an excellent location to pair with other, more seasonally dependent areas. The dry season from May to October is the most popular time to visit, with clear skies and superb wildlife viewing. However, the short rains from November to February have little impact on game viewing, and this period also brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds – a wonderful time to explore.
When is the Green Season in Tanzania?
The Green Season in Tanzania typically runs from November to May, with two distinct rainy periods: the short rains from late October to early December, and the long rains from March to May. During this time, the landscapes are lush and vibrant, migratory birds arrive in their thousands, and wildlife viewing remains excellent—particularly in the southern and central Serengeti, where the Great Migration gathers between January and March for the calving season.

This is also a quieter time for travel, with fewer visitors and excellent value at many camps and lodges. If you're a keen photographer, birder, or simply prefer a more peaceful safari experience surrounded by dramatic skies and green plains, the Green Season can be a wonderfully rewarding time to visit.
Is there any season to avoid in Tanzania?
There’s no truly bad time to visit Tanzania, but certain seasons may suit some travellers better than others. The long rains, typically from March to May, bring heavier showers, particularly in the afternoons. In some regions—like Nyerere and Ruaha National Parks—this can mean wet, muddy conditions and seasonal camp closures, so March and April are often best avoided there. That said, destinations like the Ngorongoro Crater remain excellent year-round.

What some consider the “off-season” is actually a hidden gem for others. During the Green Season, birdwatchers and photographers revel in the vivid landscapes, dramatic skies, and the arrival of migratory species. You’ll also find fewer visitors, greater privacy, and excellent value at many of Tanzania’s finest lodges and camps.

The best thing to do is speak with one of our Journeysmiths. We’ll tailor a journey that fits your travel window—ensuring the best possible experiences, wherever and whenever you go.
Great Rift Valley Tanzania
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Your Tanzania Safari Awaits

Why Travel with Journeysmiths

We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made safaris to the timeless savannahs of Africa. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made safaris to the timeless savannahs of Africa. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.

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