anzania is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations—home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Manyara, and the mighty Kilimanjaro. The best part? You can visit Tanzania year-round, but wildlife sightings, weather conditions, and safari experiences vary by season.

This month-by-month guide will help your readers (and clients) choose the perfect time to travel based on their interests—whether it’s witnessing the Great Migration, seeing baby animals, avoiding crowds, or enjoying budget-friendly deals.

Overview: Tanzania’s Safari Seasons

Dry Season (June–October)

• Best wildlife visibility
• No thick vegetation
• Animals gather around water sources
• Ideal for Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire
• Peak tourism months

 Green/Wet Season (November–May)

• Lush landscapes, beautiful colors
• Fewer tourists
• Great photography
• Calving season (Jan–Mar)
• Some rain—but safaris still excellent

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January – Calving Season in the Serengeti

January marks the beginning of the Great Migration’s calving season in the Southern Serengeti (Ndutu Area).
Why visit:

• Tens of thousands of baby wildebeests are born

• Incredible predator action (lions, cheetahs, hyenas)

• Stunning lush landscapes

Expect:
Mild rains, great visibility, dramatic wildlife encounters.

February – Peak Calving and Predator Action

February is the best month to witness the beauty and drama of the calving season.
Why visit:

• High concentration of wildlife

• Excellent big cat photography

• Warm and pleasant weather

Expect:
A perfect balance—green season beauty with highly active wildlife.

March – End of Calving, Start of Long Rains

Migration herds begin to move northwards.
Why visit:

• Fewer tourists

• Good prices

• Dramatic skies for photography

Expect:
More rainfall, but wildlife still abundant.

April – Heavy Rains but Big Savings

April is the wettest month in Tanzania.
Why visit:

• Lowest safari prices of the year

• Quiet parks

• Amazing landscapes

Expect:
Some roads muddy; best for budget travelers or photographers wanting moody, green scenery.

May – Green, Fresh, and Opening Up

Rains begin to reduce.
Why visit:

• Excellent photography

• Good prices

• Migration starts moving toward Central and Western Serengeti

Expect:
Still wet but improving—very peaceful safari experience.

June – Start of Dry Peak Season

June marks perfect safari weather.
Why visit:

• Migration herds in Western Corridor

• Ideal for walking safaris

• Cooler temperatures

Expect:
Increasing visitors—start of peak season.

July – Grumeti & Mara River Crossings Begin

One of the most iconic months of the year.
Why visit:

• Early Mara River crossings (North Serengeti)

• Great for big cats and large herds

• Comfortable temperatures

Expect:
High demand—must book early.

August – Peak of the Great Migration

A dramatic safari month.
Why visit:

• Intense river crossings

• Massive herds in Northern Serengeti

• Best time for predator sightings

Expect:
High season, but unmatched wildlife experiences.

September – Excellent Wildlife & Perfect Weather

The movement continues in the north.
Why visit:

• River crossings still occur

• Clear skies and ideal temperatures

• Great for honeymooners

Expect:
One of the most reliable wildlife months.

 October – Last Month of the Dry Season

Still wonderful for game drives.
Why visit:

• Wildlife gathered at waterholes

• Good sightings across Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro

Expect:
Dustier and hotter—but fantastic for predators.

November – Short Rains & Migration Returns South

The short rains arrive, refreshing the landscape.
Why visit:

• Fewer tourists

• Beautiful green views

• Migration starts returning to Southern Serengeti

Expect:
Light showers—not disruptive.

 December – Festive Safaris & Return of the Herds

A very popular travel month.
Why visit:

• Migration herds in Southern Serengeti

• Baby animals appear

• Festive holiday atmosphere

Expect:
Busy season—book early for Christmas/New Year safaris.

Best Time Depending on Your Interest

For the Great Migration:

• Calving season: Jan–Mar

• Grumeti River: June

• Mara River crossings: July–Oct

For Dry Season Wildlife:

• June–October

For Photography (lush landscapes):

• December–May

For Fewer Crowds and Affordable Prices:

• March, April, May, November

For Birdwatchers:

• Nov–April (migratory birds)