Tanzania is a year-round safari destination — but which month is right depends entirely on what you want to see.
The short answer
June to October is Tanzania's dry season: minimal rain, thin vegetation, dense wildlife around water sources and the Great Migration river crossings in the north. January to March brings the calving season on the southern plains — dramatic, green and photogenic.
Month by month
- June–October: Peak wildlife viewing. The Serengeti herds move through the western and northern corridors; river crossings usually peak July–September. Book 9–12 months ahead.
- November–December: Short rains arrive — brief, usually afternoon showers. Rates drop and landscapes turn green.
- January–March: Calving season around Ndutu. Around 8,000 wildebeest are born daily, drawing big cats. Excellent value and superb photography.
- April–May: The long rains. Some camps close; those that stay open offer their lowest prices — great for flexible travellers.
Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro and the coast
Beach weather is best June–October and December–March. Kilimanjaro treks run January–March and June–October.
Our advice
There's no single 'best' time — there's a best time for your goal. Tell us what you most want to see and we'll match the month, the park and the camp.
