Best time to visit Tanzania
Every season offers a unique window into the wild. Here’s how to choose the perfect time for your safari.
Dry vs. green: two faces of paradise
Tanzania has two dry seasons (June–October & January–February) and two wet seasons (March–May & November–December). Each offers distinct wildlife experiences.
Dry season
June – October (peak)
Wildlife congregates around waterholes and rivers. The grass is short, making animals easier to spot. Ideal for the Great Migration river crossings (July–September). Sunny days, cooler nights.
Green season
November – May (except Jan–Feb mini dry)
Lush landscapes, newborn animals (calving Jan–Feb), and spectacular birdlife. Fewer tourists, lower rates, and dramatic skies. The migration is in the southern Serengeti (Ndutu) during calving.
Safari rating calendar
Best ⬤ / Good ⬤ / Mixed ⬤
Calving
Peak calving
Green/lush
heavy rain
end rains
start dry
peak
peak
river cross
end dry
short rains
green start
Follow the herds
December–March: calving in Ndutu (south). April–May: moving west. June–November: river crossings in the north (Mara River). We position you at the right place at the right time.
Best time for your interest
Big cats & wildlife
June–October: animals gather at water, easy to spot. Also January–February in Ndutu for lion and cheetah with cubs.
Elephant & large herds
Dry season (July–October) in Tarangire and Serengeti. Elephants congregate around rivers.
Birdwatching
November–April: migratory birds from Europe and Asia. Over 500 species, best in green season.
Kilimanjaro climb
January–February and June–October: clear skies, warmer temperatures. Avoid April–May (heavy rain).
Zanzibar & beach
June–October and January–February: sunny, dry. December–March also good, but short rains possible.
Photography
Dry season for sharp images (dusty but clear). Green season for dramatic skies and newborn animals.
When to go where
Year‑round, but migration follows the grass. North: Jul–Oct, South: Dec–Mar.
Excellent all year. Dry season (Jun–Oct) has best game viewing.
Dry season (Jun–Oct) elephants flock to river. Green season (Nov–May) birds and quiet.
Good year‑round for tree‑climbing lions and birds. Flamingos best in wet season.
From our founders
- ✓ If you want river crossings (Mara River), book July–September. It's peak but worth it.
- ✓ February is magical: calving in Ndutu, short grass, and fewer tourists than summer.
- ✓ April–May is low season — great rates, lush scenery, but some lodges close. We still operate.
- ✓ Avoid Kilimanjaro in April/May (rain).
Ready to pick your dates?
Tell us your travel preferences and we'll recommend the perfect season and itinerary.