Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania is a year-round destination offering world-class safaris, iconic landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. The best time to visit depends on what you want to experience—whether it’s the Great Migration, Big Five game viewing, beach holidays, or mountain trekking.

At Joyful Safaris and Tours, we help you choose the perfect travel season based on your interests, budget, and travel style.


Tanzania Seasons at a Glance

SeasonMonthsWhat to Expect
Dry Season (Peak)June – OctoberBest wildlife viewing, Great Migration river crossings
Short Dry SeasonJanuary – FebruaryCalving season, fewer crowds
Long RainsMarch – MayGreen landscapes, lower prices
Short RainsNovember – DecemberBrief showers, good value travel

Best Time for Safari in Tanzania

June – October (Best Overall Safari Season)

  • Dry weather and clear skies

  • Animals gather around water sources

  • Excellent visibility in Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro

  • Peak season for the Great Migration river crossings

Best for:
Big Five safaris, photography, first-time visitors


January – February (Calving Season)

  • Wildebeest calving in southern Serengeti (Ndutu area)

  • High predator activity

  • Short dry season with warm temperatures

Best for:
Migration calving, predator action, photography


March – May (Green / Low Season)

  • Long rainy season

  • Fewer tourists and discounted rates

  • Lush scenery and excellent birdlife

Best for:
Budget travelers, birdwatchers, photographers who enjoy green landscapes


November – December (Short Rains)

  • Short, scattered showers

  • Good wildlife viewing continues

  • Lower crowd levels

Best for:
Value-for-money safaris and relaxed travel


Best Time to See the Great Migration

ExperienceLocationBest Months
Calving SeasonSouthern Serengeti (Ndutu)Jan – Feb
Herd MovementCentral & Western SerengetiMar – Jun
River CrossingsNorthern Serengeti (Mara River)Jul – Oct

Best Time for Beach Holidays (Zanzibar)

  • June – October: Cooler, dry, ideal beach weather

  • January – February: Hot, sunny, perfect swimming conditions

Zanzibar pairs beautifully with a safari during these months.


Best Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

  • January – March: Clear views, colder nights

  • June – October: Most popular trekking season, stable weather


When Is the Cheapest Time to Visit Tanzania?

  • March – May (low season)

  • November (shoulder season)

These months offer lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds while still providing rewarding wildlife experiences.


Tanzania Weather Overview

MonthConditions
Jan – FebHot, dry
Mar – MayRainy, green
Jun – AugCool, dry
Sep – OctWarm, dry
Nov – DecShort rains

Our Recommendation

At Joyful Safaris and Tours, we recommend:

  • June–October for the ultimate safari experience

  • January–February for migration calving and fewer crowds

  • March–May for travelers seeking better prices and peaceful parks

Every season in Tanzania offers something special—we customize your safari to match your travel goals.


Plan Your Tanzania Safari with Joyful Safaris and Tours

Whether you’re dreaming of the Great Migration, a Big Five safari, a Zanzibar beach escape, or a Kilimanjaro climb, Joyful Safaris and Tours is here to design your perfect journey.

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