Best Time to Go on a Tanzania Safari

Tanzania is one of Africa’s top safari destinations, home to the iconic Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Manyara National Parks. Whether you’re seeking the Great Migration, the Big Five, or a thrilling birdwatching adventure, choosing the right time for your Tanzania safari can enhance your experience.

At Everyday Safaris, we specialize in creating unforgettable safari experiences, ensuring you get the best of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes at any time of the year. Here’s a guide to the best times to visit Tanzania based on your safari interests.

The Best Time to Witness the Great Migration

The Great Migration is one of nature’s greatest spectacles, with over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands. The best time to witness this event depends on which part of the migration you want to see:

• January – March: Calving season in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains. This is the best time to see newborn wildebeest and dramatic predator action as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas prey on the vulnerable young.
• June – July: River crossing season begins as the herds move north. The Grumeti River crossings in western Serengeti take place in June, followed by the dramatic Mara River crossings in July.
• August – October: The herds are in the Northern Serengeti and Maasai Mara, offering breathtaking river crossings and predator-prey interactions.
• November – December: The herds begin their journey south again, moving back into the central and southern Serengeti.

The Best Time for Seeing the Big Five

If your goal is to spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), the best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season from June to October. During this period, wildlife gathers around water sources, making it easier to spot large concentrations of animals in places like:

• Ngorongoro Crater – A year-round Big Five hotspot with excellent game viewing.
• Serengeti National Park – Particularly great in the dry season when animals are easier to see in open grasslands.
• Tarangire National Park – Famous for its large elephant herds and baobab trees.

The Best Time for Birdwatching Safaris

Bird lovers will find Tanzania a paradise, especially during the wet season from November to April. This is when migratory birds arrive from Europe and Asia, and many resident species are in their colorful breeding plumage. The best places for birdwatching include:

• Lake Manyara National Park – Known for its pink flamingos and diverse birdlife.
• Tarangire National Park – Over 500 bird species, including hornbills, storks, and kingfishers.
• Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater – Great for spotting raptors, vultures, and a variety of water birds.

When to Visit for the Best Weather and Photography

For the best weather and photography conditions, the dry season from June to October is ideal. The skies are clear, landscapes are golden, and animals are easier to spot in open areas.

If you prefer lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, the green season (November – May) is fantastic. This period is also ideal for photographers who want vibrant scenery and dramatic skies after the rains.