Tanzania Best times for safaris

Tanzania offers exceptional safari experiences throughout the year, but the best times to visit can vary depending on specific interests and wildlife viewing preferences. Here’s a detailed guide on the best times for safaris in Tanzania:

Best Time for Safari in Tanzania

Dry Season (June to October)

Weather: Dry, sunny, and cooler temperatures.

Wildlife Viewing: Excellent as animals gather around water sources and the vegetation is less dense.

Highlights:

Great Migration: Witness the dramatic river crossings in the Serengeti.

Peak Season: Ideal for most parks, with abundant wildlife sightings.

Best Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Ruaha.

Short Dry Season (January to February)

Weather: Warm with occasional rains, generally pleasant.

Wildlife Viewing: Very good, particularly for calving season.

Highlights:

Calving Season: In the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu areas, thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators.

Best Parks: Southern Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Detailed Breakdown by Month

January to February

Weather: Warm with some short rains.

Highlights: Calving season in the Serengeti, good predatory activity.

Best Parks: Southern Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

March to May (Long Rainy Season)

Weather: Heavy rains, more challenging road conditions.

Wildlife Viewing: Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices.

Best Parks: Southern Serengeti, but generally, this is the least popular time due to rain.

June to October (Long Dry Season)

Weather: Dry and sunny, cooler temperatures.

Highlights: The Great Migration to the Serengeti, excellent wildlife viewing, and clear skies.

Best Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Ruaha, Selous.

November to December (Short Rainy Season)

Weather: Short rains, generally not disruptive.

Wildlife Viewing: Fresh green landscapes and migratory birds arrive.

Highlights: Start of the migration back to Serengeti.

Best Parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Best Parks and Their Optimal Visiting Times

Serengeti National Park

Best Time: June to October for the Great Migration; January to February for the calving season.

Highlights: River crossings, predator-prey interactions, vast savannahs.

Ngorongoro Crater

Best Time: Year-round, but best from June to October.

Highlights: Dense wildlife populations, stunning crater views, Maasai culture.

Tarangire National Park

Best Time: June to October.

Highlights: Large herds of elephants, baobab trees, bird watching.

Lake Manyara National Park

Best Time: June to October for large mammals; November to May for bird watching.

Highlights: Tree-climbing lions, flamingos, diverse ecosystems.

Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park)

Best Time: June to October.

Highlights: Boat safaris, walking safaris, diverse wildlife.

Ruaha National Park

Best Time: June to October.

Highlights: Large elephant and lion populations, remote wilderness, baobab trees.

Tips for Planning Your Safari

Book in Advance: Especially during peak seasons (June to October and January to February) to ensure availability.

Health Precautions: Ensure vaccinations are up to date and take malaria prophylaxis if recommended.

Packing Essentials: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a good camera.

Respect Wildlife: Follow guidelines from guides, maintain a safe distance, and avoid disturbing animals.

Sample Safari Itinerary

Day 1-2: Arrival in Arusha

Arrive and rest from your journey.

Explore local attractions and prepare for your safari adventure.

Day 3-5: Tarangire National Park

Drive to Tarangire National Park.

Enjoy game drives and witness large herds of elephants and baobab trees.

Day 6-7: Lake Manyara National Park

Head to Lake Manyara National Park.

Experience diverse ecosystems, bird watching, and sightings of tree-climbing lions.

Day 8-10: Serengeti National Park

Transfer to the Serengeti National Park.

Embark on game drives to witness the Great Migration or calving season.

Take a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective.

Day 11-12: Ngorongoro Crater

Travel to Ngorongoro Crater.

Explore the crater's dense wildlife and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Day 13-15: Zanzibar

Fly to Zanzibar for a beach extension.

Relax on pristine beaches, explore Stone Town, and enjoy water activities.

Day 16: Departure

Return to Arusha and depart for home.

Tanzania offers incredible safari experiences year-round, but planning your trip around the best times for specific wildlife events and weather conditions can significantly enhance your adventure.

Tanzania best times for safaris
Posted by:
Wildmaptravel
March 2024
Tour Expert
Related Articles