Best Time for Safari in Tanzania

While there are definitely popular tourism seasons, other factors depend on one’s personal preference. Read on to discover the best time for safari in Tanzania, based on your tastes and travel interests

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Best Time for Safari in Tanzania

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Best Time for Safari In Tanzania | When To Visit Tanzania

One of the most common questions travelers ask is, “When is the best time for a safari in Tanzania?” While there are popular seasons, the perfect time really depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Tanzania, situated near the equator and the Indian Ocean, has tropical weather with two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season offers sunny, warm days perfect for game viewing, while the wet season brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds, ideal for a more intimate connection with nature. Each season has its unique beauty, and even during the rains, Tanzania often surprises with sunny afternoons. So, whether you seek vibrant wildlife, serene landscapes, or fewer crowds, understanding Tanzania’s seasons will help you plan a safari that resonates with your travel dreams.

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Embark on an unparalleled safari adventure with us, where the majesty of Tanzania’s wildlife meets unbeatable value. At our company, we take pride in offering the best safari packages at reasonable prices, ensuring that your journey into the heart of Africa’s most iconic landscapes is not only extraordinary but also affordable.

Month-by-month guide | best time for Safari

The best time to go to Tanzania for safari is during the dry season, from late June to October. The best chance of seeing the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti is during June and July, and the time to see the wildebeest calving is late January to February. The southern and western circuit parks are best visited during the dry season (June to October), unlike the more popular northern circuit parks that can be visited year-round. Tarangire is the only exception, since its wildlife viewing is considerably better in the dry season as well.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

TANZANIA SAFARI IN JANUARY

The beginning of the year marks the short dry season in Tanzania. It’s an excellent time to witness the wildebeest calving season in the southern Serengeti. The weather is generally warm and dry, making it ideal for wildlife viewing.

TANZANIA SAFARI IN FEBRUARY

The dry season continues, making February another great month for safaris. The southern Serengeti and Ndutu Game Reserve remains a hotspot for witnessing the Great Migration, as thousands of wildebeest give birth to their young. The weather remains comfortable with clear skies.

TANZANIA SAFARI IN MARCH

March signals the end of the short dry season, but wildlife viewing remains excellent. It’s a transitional period, with lush green landscapes and fewer tourists. Birdwatchers will appreciate the migratory birds, and prices may be more budget-friendly.

TANZANIA SAFARI IN APRIL

The long rains begin in April, transforming the landscapes into vibrant greenery. While some areas may become inaccessible due to muddy roads, this is an excellent time for bird enthusiasts and those seeking a more intimate safari experience.

TANZANIA SAFARI IN MAY

May continues with the long rains, and while some parks might still be wet, the vegetation is lush, and wildlife is abundant. Many lodges offer discounted rates during this shoulder season.

TANZANIA SAFARI IN JUNE

The dry season starts to take hold in June, making it an ideal time for safaris. The Great Migration begins its journey towards the western corridor of the Serengeti. Wildlife congregates around water sources, providing excellent viewing opportunities. Note: This is one of the popular months, so book accommodations well in advance.

TANZANIA SAFARI IN JULY

July is one of the peak months for safaris in Tanzania. The Great Migration is in full swing in the western Serengeti, offering dramatic river crossings. The weather is dry and cool, making it comfortable for game drives. Note: This is one of the popular months, so book accommodations well in advance.

TANZANIA SAFARI IN AUGUST

Similar to July, August is prime time for safaris, with the Great Migration reaching the northern Serengeti and crossing into the Maasai Mara in Kenya. Wildlife is abundant, and the weather remains favorable. Note: This is one of the popular months, so book accommodations well in advance.

Day Trip Tour to Lake Manyara National Park

TANZANIA SAFARI IN SEPTEMBER

September continues the prime safari season, with the Great Migration still in the northern Serengeti. The dry weather and the landscapes are dustier, providing unique photo opportunities.

TANZANIA SAFARI IN OCTOBER

As the dry season persists, October is an ideal time for game viewing in the Serengeti and other parks. The crowds begin to thin, and the weather remains pleasant. It’s an excellent month to witness the diverse wildlife, including the Big Five, in their natural habitats.

TANZANIA SAFARI IN NOVEMBER

The short rains usually begin in November, bringing brief afternoon showers. While some areas may become muddy, the landscapes are lush and green. This is a quieter period, offering a more serene safari experience.

2 days mid-range safari to Tarangire to Ngorongoro

TANZANIA SAFARI IN DECEMBER

December marks the start of the short dry season, making it a good time for safaris. Wildlife is abundant, and the weather is generally warm and dry. It’s a popular time for holiday travelers, so plan and book in advance.

Favourable weather
Abundance of Wildlife
Scenery looks like many images of Africa; vast, dry grasslands and animals around watering holes
Holiday Seasons, and when most visitors have time-off
Good weather for an evening swim in the swimming pool at your hotel/lodge
Suggested time for a family vacation or honeymoon
Popular tourist time

Rainy Season: Pros and Cons

See Africa in a new way! Tropical climate with green forests and active animals
Photographers especially enjoy capturing wildlife during the rainy season, and the contrast of colors looks amazing.
Guests may receive low-season discounts
Parks are not crowded and guests feel they are on a private adventure

Some park roads may be inaccessible
Likely to experience some wet days - but it does not rain all day and typically there is significant sun at some point each day
Bring a rain jacket and shoes that are water resistant for your comfort
In some parks the animals are more dispersed during the rainy season

OUR SAMPLE TANZANIA SAFARI HOLIDAYS

Regarding safaris in Africa, Toto Africa Adventures is Tanzania’s top local tour operator, having a stellar reputation for offering a variety of safari tours and trips to fit your interests and budget. Please look through our pre-made adventures or get in touch with us to create a personalized itinerary.

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AFRICAN LUXURY COUPLE SAFARI

Tanzania Classic Safari

6 DAYS TANZANIA FAMILY SAFARI

Tanzania Family Safari

5 DAYS BIG 5 MID-RANGE SAFARI

Don't take our word for it— let their testimonials be your guide

We have been receiving reviews from our served clients and Toto Africa Adventures is rated 5/5 by customers. This honor is given to us by customers because we always remain committed to all our customers to do whatever is needed by them to make their safari fully satisfied.

     EXCELLENT  
     Based on 25 reviews 
    
 
 
   
 
 
        
   Eric Salley 
 2024-04-15
 
 
 Verified The Ultimate Luxury Family Travel Experience: Secure, Adaptable, Flexible, Affordable, with Helpful Staff and Beautiful Accommod
We recently returned from a 10-day Luxury family safari with Toto Africa Adventures, and we had an amazing time. While organizing our vacation, we looked at several safari operators; in the end, when we contacted Toto Africa in our first correspondence with Chris Japheth, we were impressed by his promptness and adaptability in creating a personalized safari itinerary we decided on Toto Africa Adventures because they provided the best itinerary accommodations for our Family requirements and were the most professional and attentive. Our safari was made extremely enjoyable, safe, and enlightening by our driver guide, Benard. He made an effort to find out what we were most interested in seeing at the start of the trip, and we were able to see a lot more than that. He has an extensive understanding of Tanzania's ecosystems as well as its animal and wildlife populations. He provided comprehensive answers to all of our inquiries and offered insightful commentary on Tanzanian culture and daily life. He made us laugh every day, drove very safely and skillfully, and was always polite. We visited Tarangire Park which is a beautiful park filled with Baobabs and Acacias with a large variety of game such as zebras, buffalo, giraffes, and waterbuck. Of note during this time are the massed elephants along the Tarangire River a tremendous sight and the healthy pride of lions. From there, we head to the Ngorongoro. This is the largest intact crater in the world abundant with wild game including elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, lions, leopards, and hyenas. we also visit the Serengeti, Tanzania’s most famous and largest national park and one of the most spectacular parks in the world. And we spend 4 days in Zanzibar with Toto Africa Adventures. Our chef Alli always prepares super tasty, fresh, and delicious meals every day. They brought various kinds of meals including meat, vegetables, fish, and fruits. We also had special dietary requirements that were met without a problem. We thank the Toto Africa Adventures team for the wonderful 10-day Luxury family safari. Without a doubt, we will tell our friends about Toto Africa Adventures in the future.
  
 
       
   Dan S 
 2024-04-13
 
 
 Verified Amazing family safari in Tanzania.
Miss Neema and Guide Mr. Ben of Toto Africa Adventures truly exceeded our expectations! Their personalized service and expertise made our journey through Tanzania unforgettable. Miss Neema's attention to detail ensured every aspect of our trip was seamless, while Guide Mr. Ben's extensive knowledge of the region's wildlife and culture enriched our experience beyond measure. Together, they created an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality that made us feel like family. We can't thank them enough for their dedication and professionalism, and we highly recommend Toto Africa Adventures to anyone looking for an authentic and rewarding African safari experience.
  
 
       
   Spencer M 
 2024-04-11
 
 
 Verified Really great trip
With the most amiable, knowledgeable, and compassionate local guide, Livingstone, my spouse and I enjoyed the most amazing nine-day customized vacation around Tanzania. Every activity, including game drives, boat safaris, trekking with gorillas and chimpanzees, really cozy hotels, and delectable cuisine, was well planned to let us to make the most of our time in the nation! I heartily suggest taking Toto Africa Adventures tour.
  
 
       
   Sienna H 
 2024-04-09
 
 
 Verified Excellent Adventure
It was an amazing five days on safari with Toto. Director Japheth ensured a smooth planning process by creating a custom schedule that included exhilarating game drives and luxurious lodge accommodations. Because of guide Livingstone's knowledge and enthusiasm for animals, amazing encounters and fascinating tales resulted. Everything about the experience—from breathtaking animal sightings to opulent lodgings—surpassed expectations. A trip that will never be forgotten is ensured by Toto's commitment to providing individualized excursions in conjunction with professionals like Japheth and Livingstone. Toto is a great choice for anybody looking for a customized safari experience full of unique experiences.
  
 
       
   Ruth M 
 2023-09-15
 
 
 Verified All amazing !
Our safari experience was all that we could have wished . It was relaxed with fabulous close up respectful views of the animals . We were a family of five on a camping safari.. Ben our guide , was a magician in finding the animals and was very easy company .Japheth punctually made our arrangements and Brighton cooked delicious local and European food helped by Inno who taught us Swahili
  
 
       
   Anna B 
 2023-09-15
 
 
 Verified A trip of a lifetime!
Toto Africa gave us a family holiday we will never forget! Our 6 day itinerary was the perfect combination of safari and culture that really showcased Tanzania. I can not recommend them highly enough for organising your perfect African adventure!
  
 
       
   Gareth 
 2023-09-07
 
 
 Verified Family Tanzania experience
We heard about Toto Africa Adventures from a good friend who had travelled with them recently. As a family of 5, mum dad and three daughters in their 20s, we were not disappointed, and the trip represented good value for money. A great combination of safari camping, cultural experiences and hot spring swimming was wonderfully put together by Japheth, who answered our many questions quickly prior to arrival. Special mention to our safari guide Ben, and also to the wonderful food cooked beautifully. Thank you Japheth, we will be back to conquer kili with you! Do remember to ‘ go with the flow’ as this is an adventure, Toto Africa adventures is thoroughly recommended.
  
 
       
   Pippa Watts 
 2023-08-18
 
 
 Verified Affordable tailored holiday in Tanzania
We had such an amazing two week holiday thanks to Chris Japheth and Toto Africa. He put together an itinerary that was exactly what we wanted and ensured we had some truly unforgettable experiences - seeing the Wildebeest crossing the Mara river in the Northern Serengeti, a wonderful picknick in the Serenget near the Kenyan border. A hot air balloon safari, stunning hiking in the Usambara Miuntains and a relaxing end to the holiday on the coast. The guides were wonderful. All in all a great experience. Would definitely recommend booking with Toto Africa.
  
 
       
   Tour41822323453 
 2023-08-11
 
 
 Verified A superb experience!
My spouse and I just finished an incredible 9-day journey through Tanzania to see the Great Migration and it was all thanks to Toto Africa and its owner, Chris Japeth. We shopped nearly half a dozen tour operators and this was the best value for our itinerary. We booked a 5-day safari and beach holiday opting for the mid range package (Note: We booked the all-inclusive resort in Zanzibar separately as that saved us a couple hundred dollars). During our initial emails with Chris, we were captured by not only his responsiveness but also his flexibility in crafting a custom Safari schedule to fit our unique travel needs - 9 days is super short for this type of trip. Whenever we had a request the answer was always “yes”. Chris put up with dozens of our emails/WhatsApp messages and responded quickly and made us feel at ease. He even took the time to message us early in the mornings to make sure we didn’t miss our flights. What a guy! Toto arranged everything from our tasty meals on the safari, beautiful accommodations, and last but not least, airport pickups and drop offs. Special shout-out to our Safari guide Ben with over 20 YEARS of experience who went above and beyond to make sure we saw the as many incredible animals as possible while patiently answering our endless questions about nature and the culture in this incredible country. When we were tired and wanted to give up, Ben kept pushing us to keep looking and it paid off. We saw a Leopard, Cheetah, nearly a dozen lions, and all the grazing animals as well. Most importantly, we were one of only 15-20 vehicles to see the largest wildebeest crossing the entire day in Northern Serengeti and this was all because of Ben. Ben was also very respectful of the animals and would keep appropriate distance while other younger and more inexperience drivers would get too close to the animals. It was evident the other Safari guides respect him a great deal. All in all everything was great and if we could do the trip again, we would make only a couple of changes. For example, we would break up our drive from Northern Serengeti to Arusha/Moshi into 2 days because it’s a very long 11 hour drive otherwise. I would spend extra time in the central Serengeti and skip Tarangire National Park since while beautiful, it has similar animals as the Serengeti and is almost 3 hours away from the Southern entrance to Serengeti National Park. Also, bring a mask and saline nasal spray since there’s lots of dust on the drive and you want to be able to keep the windows of the land cruiser open to keep cool. Mosquitos were surprisingly not a big issue on the Safari but at the resort in Zanzibar they came out in swarms. I wish someone had told us this stuff. Have a great journey with Toto Africa and tell them hi for us!
  
 
       
   Selma Turki 
 2023-01-08
 
 
 Verified Perfect experience
I did 7 days Kilimanjaro climb, 3 days safari and 4 days Zanzibar with Toto Africa Adventures. Japheth is the manager of the company. He was always available to respond to my questions and to reassure me about the process. I trusted him because of his availability months before coming. And I was totally right. He has a great team for Kilimanjaro and safari ( I did Tarangire Ngorongoro and lake manara) he also has good advice and he’s always present to help in case of a problem or a change of plans. He took care of every detail and every need that I felt. It’s the best trip that I never had thanks to his commitment and work !

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