Choosing the best time for a safari in Tanzania is one of the first questions every traveler asks—and for good reason. Tanzania’s climate, wildlife movement, and seasonal highlights make each month unique. Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration, looking for lush green landscapes, or hoping for fewer crowds, Tanzania offers something extraordinary all year round.

Below is your ultimate African Overland guide to understanding Tanzania’s seasons, wildlife patterns, and the ideal time for your safari—based entirely on your personal travel style.

Understanding Tanzania’s Climate

Unlike regions with winter, spring, summer, and fall, Tanzania’s weather is influenced by the equator and the Indian Ocean, resulting in two major seasons:

 Dry Season

June to October & January to February
Sunny, warm, and ideal for wildlife viewing.

 Wet Season

March to May & October to December
Lush, green, with occasional rain—perfect for photographers and solitude seekers.

Keep in mind: Rain in Tanzania is often short-lived, clearing into sunny afternoons.

Tanzania Safari Seasons Explained

January – March: Hot, Dry & Full of Wildlife

This is one of the most popular safari times.

• Hot temperatures (peaking in February)

• Great wildlife concentration around limited water sources

• Tarangire National Park becomes a wildlife hotspot

• Ideal for photographers and families

Expect: Bushes turning golden, active predators, beautiful sunsets.

March – May: Long Rainy Season (Green Season)

The landscape transforms into lush, green paradise.

• Morning and night rains

• Afternoons often sunny

• Roads may be muddy but main routes remain accessible

• Fewer tourists + low-season lodge discounts

Many travelers love this season for its intimacy, silence, and vibrant wildlife.

June – September: Cool Dry Season (Peak Travel Months)

Locals may call this the “cold season,” but visitors find it refreshing.

• Crisp mornings and sunny afternoons

• Prime time for wildlife viewing

• Peak season for the Great Migration in Serengeti

• Parks are busier but spectacular

If you dislike heat, this is your perfect safari window.

October – December: Short Rains & Blossoming Landscapes

• Short rains transform the parks into green oases

• Jacaranda trees bloom in purple (October)

• Blaze-red Flame Trees bloom in December

• Christmas season brings many visitors

• Weather becomes warm and pleasant

This season offers colorful landscapes, new life, and warm evenings.

Dry Season Pros & Cons

• Excellent weather

• Large wildlife concentrations around waterholes

• Great for families & honeymoons

• Perfect for evening swims

• Aligns with holiday travel schedules

Cons

• Crowds in popular parks

• Higher accommodation prices

• Can be dusty late in the season

Rainy Season Pros & Cons

• Lush green landscapes

• Rich photography opportunities

• Fewer tourists

• Off-season accommodation discounts

• Wildlife very active

Cons

• Some roads may be muddy

• Possible wet mornings

• Animals spread out due to plentiful water

The Great Migration: Tanzania’s Ultimate Wildlife Event

The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles, attracting visitors from every corner of the planet.

Highlights by Month

• February: Calving season — thousands of baby wildebeest are born daily

• March–April: Herds gather in the Seronera region

• May: Massive columns move north, preparing for the Grumeti River crossing

• July–September: Dramatic Mara River crossing (Serengeti ↔ Maasai Mara)

• October–January: Herds return south to fresh grazing lands

There are two major river crossings:

• Grumeti River → May & June

• Mara River → July & August

This continuous cycle has repeated annually for thousands of years— an unforgettable African Overland experience.

 So, When Is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?

 For the Great Migration River Crossing:

July – August

 For fewer crowds & lush greenery:

March – May (Green Season)
October – November

 For the coolest and most pleasant weather:

June – September

 For hot weather and classic African landscapes:

January – March

 The truth?

There is no bad time to visit Tanzania.
Each season offers something different—and magical.

Whether you prefer lush green forests, dramatic river crossings, quiet safaris, or sunny dry-season adventures, your perfect moment in Tanzania depends entirely on you.

Your African Overland safari awaits—full of life, movement, color, and unforgettable wildlife moments.