June 30

When is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?

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By Ian Rowett on
June 30, 2022

Is Tanzania on your travel bucket list? Well, it should be! Who doesn't want to see the Great Wildebeest Migration, vast savannahs, to-die-for sunsets, flamingo-dotted lakes, snow-capped Kilimanjaro, and tropical beaches? We want to ensure that your travel plans don't disappoint. Therefore, as the World's Leading Safari Company, we share the best time to travel to Tanzania and what to expect with you.

The Great Migration on the Serengeti - the best time to visit Tanzania

Get up close to Tanzania's abundant wildlife

January and February: The Short Dry Season

During this dry season, the short rains of November and December abate, leaving behind a lush landscape. And  the Great Migration spreads out across the southern Serengeti to feed on the fresh new grass. Thousands of calves are born daily – easy pickings for lion, cheetah, leopard, African wild dog, hyena and many smaller carnivores. And as a result, predator action peaks.

When is the best time to visit Tanzania - elephants close to a game drive vehicle

Book with us to experience the magic of Tanzania

The short dry season is a good time for general safaris in the south and west. Diving off the coast is also at its best because tropical beaches are at their warmest. Plus, it's an ideal time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, offering clear views and warmer temperatures at the summit. 

With lower visitor numbers than the long dry season and so many highlights, the short, drier interlude is one of the best times to visit Tanzania.

March, April and May: The Long Rains

The main rainy season is a relatively quiet time for Tanzania. Starting in late March, the monsoon rains feature spectacular downpours drenching the country with life-giving water almost daily.

During this time, migratory birds arrive from the northern hemisphere to breed. And by May, Lake Natron in the north of Tanzania is inundated with millions of flamingos also on a breeding mission.

Pink flamingos in Tanzania

Flamingos and other birds offer excellent photo opportunities

The Great Migration's wildebeest spread across the southern Serengeti during March and April. And, by May, they've gathered to begin their journey northwest. 

With its altitude and accessibility, the Ngorongoro Crater is excellent all year round, offering an exceptional Big 5 safari regardless of the season.

June to September: The Long Dry Winter Season

The long dry season is prime time for an East African safari. Therefore, Tanzania is also at its busiest during winter. And this is no surprise as all the attractions, from the continent's highest peak to the Wildebeest Migration, are at their best.

The Great Migration hits its first major obstacle, the crocodile-filled Grumeti River in northern Serengeti. But it only gets harder for this million-plus swarm of ungulates, as the Mara River is their next great ordeal.

Elephants wander with the snow-capped Kilimanjaro in the back

Climb Africa's highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro

Safaris in the south and west offer incredible wilderness and significantly fewer visitors. This is also the best time to experience the chimpanzees in the western national parks of Gombe and the Mahale Mountains. 

By now, the flamingos of Lake Natron are well into their breeding routine, and the beaches are also worth a visit. Furthermore, Mount Kilimanjaro's conditions are excellent – ideal for passionate hikers and climbers. Travelling to Zanzibar? Read more about the best time to visit this spice island.

If it's a best-of-everything holiday and safari you're after, and you're okay with it being the busy season, then June to September is the best time to visit Tanzania.

October: The Wildcard Month

October marks the beginning of the short rains after a long dry spell. Generally arriving towards the end of the month, you'll have the best of the dry winter interspersed with spectacular downpours. During this time, stragglers of the Great Migration also loiter around the northern Serengeti bordering Kenya's Maasai Mara. 

Best time to travel to Tanzania to go on a safari to see lions

Tanzania, a Lion King dream come true

Therefore, October is an excellent time to visit Tanzania if you want to avoid the crowds, experience the best of this great country, and don't mind the rain potentially affecting your plans.

November and December: The Short Rains

The short rains feature nighttime downpours and usually short-lived daytime showers. Most safari lodges are open during the short rains, unlike the long rains when some of the more remote camps are closed.

The Great Migration begins their southward journey to enjoy the fertile grasslands of the eastern Serengeti. And by December, they arrive, ready for breeding.

At this time of year, the country offers excellent wildlife sightings but without the crowds. Also, the incredible lush landscapes and good, clear photography conditions are a bonus.

Bird's eye view of the Serengeti plains

Admire Tanzania from all perspectives

So, When Is The Best Time to Visit Tanzania for My Safari?

As you can see, the best time to visit Tanzania is not necessarily the peak safari season. Instead, it depends on what you want to see and experience. 

So, talk to one of our Travel Experts for a tailor-made itinerary to make the most of your time in this incredible East African country.

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About the author 

Ian Rowett

Born in Zimbabwe and, having bluffed his way through a Journalism Degree at Rhodes, Ian turned his reluctantly nomadic life into a successful career as a travel writer. With stints in Harare, Joburg, Cape Town, Swakopmund, Port Shepstone and Greyton, he has travelled the length and breadth of southern Africa. Now living in Knysna, Ian combines his innate tendency to write for a living with a deep-rooted love of Africa’s wilderness and a keen interest in the hospitality trade.

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