UncategorizedThe dry season, which runs from June to October, is widely regarded as the best overall time to go on a safari in Tanzania. During these months, the weather is consistently sunny with very little rainfall, making travel easier and safari drives more comfortable. The landscape changes during this time—the grass is shorter and the vegetation less dense—allowing wildlife to be more visible across the open plains and savannahs. Rivers and watering holes shrink, causing animals to congregate around these limited water sources. This natural behavior makes game viewing more predictable, as animals such as elephants, zebras, giraffes, and big cats are easier to locate and observe. It is also the ideal time for photographers, as clear skies and unobstructed views create perfect lighting for capturing wildlife in action.
One of the major highlights of the dry season is the opportunity to witness the Great Migration river crossings in the northern Serengeti, which typically occur from July to September. Seeing thousands of wildebeest and zebras attempt to cross the Mara River while avoiding crocodiles is an unforgettable spectacle and a bucket-list experience for any safari enthusiast. Beyond the migration, the dry season offers excellent wildlife spotting across all national parks, including chances to see the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—in their natural habitats. Safari drives are more comfortable during this time due to minimal mud and dry roads, and accessibility to lodges, camps, and remote areas of the parks is significantly easier compared to the wet season.
Overall, the dry season provides a combination of perfect weather, abundant wildlife, and ease of travel, making it the preferred choice for first-time safari visitors, photographers, and anyone seeking a classic Tanzanian safari experience. Whether you want to witness predator-prey interactions, herd migrations, or simply enjoy uninterrupted game drives across the breathtaking landscapes, the dry season offers the best conditions to experience all of Tanzania’s wildlife wonders.
Dry Season: June to October
The dry season, which lasts from June to October, is widely considered the best time for a safari in Tanzania. During these months, the weather is mostly sunny with very little rainfall, and the vegetation becomes less dense, making it much easier to spot wildlife across the plains. As rivers and watering holes shrink, animals tend to gather in concentrated areas, which makes game viewing more predictable and increases your chances of seeing a wide variety of species. This season is perfect for photographers and first-time safari travelers who want clear skies and unobstructed views of wildlife. Some of the major highlights include excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—as well as witnessing the Great Migration river crossings in the northern Serengeti from July to September. Safari drives are more comfortable during this period due to dry roads and minimal mud, and access to national parks, lodges, and camps is easier compared to the wetter months, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable safari experience.
Wet Season (Green Season): November to May
The wet season, also known as the green season, occurs from November to May in Tanzania. During this time, the country experiences either short or long rains depending on the month, which brings a dramatic transformation to the landscapes. The plains, forests, and hills turn vibrant green, rivers and waterfalls flow abundantly, and the scenery becomes breathtakingly lush, providing a beautiful backdrop for safari photography. While some roads may be more challenging due to mud and soft terrain, wildlife remains abundant throughout the parks, and you can still witness a wide variety of species including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. One of the major advantages of visiting during the wet season is the reduced number of tourists, which creates a more intimate and personal safari experience. This is also the time when the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area become the focus of the Great Migration calving season from January to February, attracting predators and newborn wildebeest, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters. Bird watchers will particularly enjoy this season, as migratory birds arrive and resident species are more active. In addition, safari lodges and camps often offer lower rates during the green season, making it a great choice for travelers seeking a high-quality safari experience at a more affordable price. Overall, the wet season offers a unique and serene safari experience, with lush landscapes, active wildlife, and fewer crowds, perfect for travelers who appreciate both beauty and adventure.
