Best Time to Visit Tanzania

The best time for game drives in Tanzania from June to October. Discover the country’s magnificent wildlife during these cool, dry months of the Southern Hemisphere's winter for the perfect climate for game drives. Mild, sunny days are ideal for exploring vast national parks and intimate private reserves. This peak season allows you to experience the region’s iconic wildlife without the intense summer heat or the viewing challenges of the wet season.

Embark on a morning game drive in the Serengeti as predators return from their nightly hunts or watch as herds of elephants gather at a waterhole in Tarangire National Park. With lower grass and less foliage, wildlife is easier to spot and the mild weather means animals are more active throughout the day. The pleasant climate and exceptional visibility make these months the premier time for a classic safari adventure.

What to Expect

• Optimal Viewing: Dry conditions and short grass make it much easier to spot animals from a distance.
• Active Wildlife: Animals congregate around rivers and waterholes, creating predictable and rewarding sightings.
• Comfortable Temperatures: Mild, sunny days and cool mornings are perfect for long hours in an open safari vehicle.
• Clear Skies: Expect bright, sunny days and dramatic sunsets, perfect for photography.
• Fewer Insects: The dry season means fewer mosquitoes and other bothersome insects.

Best Months

• June
• July
• August
• September
• October

Learn more by having a look at our Tanzania safari tours and packages.

The best times for the Great Migration crossing are late June, July and October. These months offer the best chances to see thousands of wildebeest and zebra brave crocodile-infested waters as they move between the Serengeti and Kenya's Maasai Mara.

This is the time to fully embrace the drama of the African savanna. Position yourself near the Mara River in July to witness the thunderous northbound crossing, a spectacle of dust, sound, and raw survival. In October and November, witness their return journey to the Serengeti’s plains. The predictable, cyclical nature of this event ensures your plans will be centered around one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife events on Earth.

What to Expect

• Dramatic Crossings: Witness the iconic spectacle of herds crossing the Mara River.
• Abundant Wildlife: Massive herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelles dominate the plains.
• Predator Action: Lions, hyenas, and cheetahs are frequently seen trailing the migrating herds.
• Incredible Photography: Unforgettable opportunities to capture nature's power.
• Expert Guides: Rely on skilled guides to position you for the best possible viewing experiences.

Best Months

• June
• July
• October
• November

Allow our Tanzania Great Migration safaris to inspire your journey.

The best time for walking safaris in Tanzania is primarily from July to October. There is no more exciting time to experience the bush on foot than during the dry season, which primarily takes place between these months. This is when the vegetation is sparse and the ground is dry, so conditions are safer and visibility is improved. The air is cool and clear, and a sense of intimacy with the wilderness is palpable as you follow animal tracks with an expert guide.

Visiting during the dry season offers a unique opportunity to engage all your senses. A walking safari allows you to notice the smaller details of the ecosystem, from intricate insect life to the medicinal uses of native plants. This is a time for spoor spotting, bird watching, and appreciating the vastness of the landscape, offering a thrilling and deeply personal connection to the African bush.

What to Expect

• Better Visibility: Low grass and sparse bush make it easier and safer to see wildlife from a distance.
• Cooler Weather: Comfortable temperatures are ideal for walking during the morning hours.
• Expert Guidance: Learn about tracking, plants, and animal behavior from armed, professional guides.
• Intimate Experience: Connect with the wilderness on a deeper, more personal level.
• Unique Perspective: See the landscape and its inhabitants from the ground up, a thrilling change from a vehicle.

Best Months

• July
• August
• September
• October

Zicasso’s Specialized Safari Experiences includes a wealth of information on the different types of safaris.

The best time for birdwatching in Tanzania is during the “green season”, from December to February. You will be treated to a celebration of color and sound during these months, as the resident bird populations are joined by migratory species from Europe and northern Africa. The short rains have revitalized the landscape, creating a lush environment with abundant food sources, and many birds are displaying their vibrant breeding plumage.

Embark on a safari where you can spot hundreds of species in a single day. Join a guided walk in Arusha National Park to find forest dwellers or scan the wetlands of the Ngorongoro Crater for flamingos and waterfowl. This is when the bush is at its most vibrant and sonorous. It’s a true feast for the eyes and ears that showcases the incredible avian diversity of East Africa.

What to Expect

• Migratory Species: Spot a huge variety of birds that have traveled from the northern hemisphere.
• Breeding Plumage: See many birds in their most colorful and spectacular feathers.
• Lush Scenery: The green, vibrant landscape provides a beautiful backdrop for photography.
• Active Birdlife: Abundant food sources mean birds are highly active and easier to spot.
• Vocal Mornings: Wake up to a symphony of birdsong that fills the African bush.

Best Months

• December
• January
• February

Learn more by taking a look at our Reasons You Should Choose Tanzania for Your Safari.

The best times for a Zanzibar beach escape are June, September, and January. Enjoy the stunning coastline of the archipelago, with its warm waters and relaxed atmosphere at times that avoid the heaviest rains. You will experience idyllic beach weather and more manageable humidity. The Indian Ocean is comfortably warm for swimming and the sun is bright and plentiful, creating a perfect tropical escape.

Along the coast, you’ll find luxurious accommodations where you can rent a comfortable lounger and enjoy the turquoise waters. Explore the historic alleyways of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take a tour of a local spice farm. Whether you prefer a vibrant scene or a quiet natural retreat, visiting during these months allows you to savor the beauty of the Spice Islands.

What to Expect

• Warm Sea Temperatures: Perfect conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
• Abundant Sunshine: Consistently sunny days are ideal for lounging and enjoying the coastal scenery.
• Lower Humidity: More comfortable conditions compared to the peak of the wet seasons.
• Cultural Exploration: Ideal weather for exploring historic Stone Town and spice farms.
• Vibrant Marine Life: Clear waters offer excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving excursions.

Best Months

• June
• September
• January

Browse our Tanzania honeymoon packages to find out what is on offer in this glorious destination.

The best time for family travel in Tanzania is during the dry season, from June to September. These months provide the ideal ingredients for a successful family vacation: pleasant weather that’s not too hot for children, exceptional wildlife viewing that keeps all ages engaged, and a lower risk of malaria.

This is the perfect time to create lasting memories together. Spot lions and giraffes on a game drive in the Serengeti, learn about Maasai culture from local guides, or enjoy a picnic lunch in the Ngorongoro Crater. The ease of spotting wildlife during the dry season ensures children remain captivated and excited. Traveling during these months ensures a more relaxed, enjoyable, and enriching experience for the entire family.

What to Expect

• Excellent Game Viewing: Dry, open conditions make it easy for children to spot their favorite animals.
• Mild Temperatures: Comfortable weather perfect for outdoor activities and long game drives.
• Healthier Conditions: Fewer mosquitoes reduce the risk of malaria, a key consideration for families.
• Engaging Activities: Many lodges offer family-friendly activities like guided walks and cultural visits.
• Relaxed Pace: A less-crowded environment outside of the August peak allows for more stress-free travel.

Best Months

• June
• July
• August
• September

Learn more from our Tanzania family safaris and tours.

The best time for couples to visit Tanzania is during the dry season, especially in June, July, and September. During these times, Tanzania exudes a deeply romantic ambiance. The landscape glows under the African sun and a sense of adventure and intimacy pervades the safari experience. The wildlife is spectacular, the sunsets are breathtaking, and the lodges offer unparalleled luxury and seclusion.

This is the season for romantic experiences. Share a bottle of wine while watching elephants at a waterhole from your private veranda. Take a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise over the Serengeti plains, followed by a champagne breakfast. Enjoy a gourmet meal under a canopy of stars in the middle of the bush. The combination of thrilling wildlife, stunning scenery, and intimate accommodations makes this the ultimate season for a passionate Tanzanian getaway.

What to Expect

• Romantic Landscapes: The vast savanna, dramatic sunsets, and starry nights create a magical backdrop.
• Intimate Atmosphere: Many camps offer private, secluded tents or suites with stunning views.
• Exclusive Experiences: Arrange for private game drives, bush dinners, and sundowners for two.
• Hot-Air Ballooning: A sunrise balloon safari is an unforgettable and incredibly romantic activity.
• Bush-to-Beach Combo: Easily combine your thrilling safari with a relaxing and romantic escape to Zanzibar.

Best Months

• June
• July
• September

For more information on what to expect if you are seeking a romantic getaway in Tanzania, see our Tanzania honeymoon packages.

The best time for seniors to visit the country is from June to October. During this dry season, you will experience an excellent blend of comfortable weather and superb wildlife viewing. The intense summer heat is absent and the dry conditions make travel between parks smoother. Choosing months just outside the peak of August, such as June or September, ensures a tranquil environment for a more relaxed and enjoyable luxury safari.

This is the season for comfortable and immersive experiences. You can enjoy game drives without oppressive heat and witness incredible wildlife congregations at water sources. The gentle climate is ideal for relaxing at your lodge, enjoying the views, and listening to the sounds of the bush. Indulge in high-quality service, comfortable accommodations, and expertly guided excursions for a true taste of safari luxury.

What to Expect

• Comfortable Climate: Mild daytime temperatures are ideal for game drives and relaxing at the lodge.
• Thinner Crowds: Traveling in June, September, or October avoids the main tourist rush of August.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: A calmer season allows for a more leisurely pace, perfect for soaking in the experience.
• Excellent Viewing: Optimal conditions for spotting wildlife without strenuous effort.
• Smooth Travel: Dry roads and well-maintained airstrips ensure comfortable and reliable transfers between destinations.

Best Months

• June
• September
• October

Let our Tanzania safaris for seniors inspire you.

The best time to visit Tanzania for spring and summer activities is from October to February. The vibrant "green season” transforms with the arrival of the short rains. It brings lush scenery, newborn animals, and a spectacular show of birdlife. This period offers a unique and beautiful perspective on the Tanzanian wilderness.

This is the time to experience the circle of life in action. Witness the Great Migration herds returning to the southern Serengeti, followed by the calving season in January and February, when thousands of wildebeest are born each day. It's the prime season for bird watching, as migratory species arrive in their thousands. While there may be afternoon showers, the dust is settled, the scenery is stunning, and the parks are less crowded.

What to Expect

• Calving Season: From late January to February, witness thousands of wildebeest calves being born daily on the Ndutu plains, which attracts a high concentration of predators.
• Bird Watching: Experience the peak of birding season as migratory species from Europe and Asia join Tanzania's resident birds, many in their vibrant breeding plumage.
• Lush Photography: Capture the stunning, emerald-green landscapes that follow the rains, offering a vibrant and colorful backdrop for wildlife photography, often with dramatic skies.
• Newborn Wildlife: See a variety of baby animals, from wobbly zebra foals to tiny gazelles, taking their first steps, providing heartwarming and photogenic moments.
• Fewer Crowds: Enjoy a more intimate safari experience with fewer vehicles at sightings, along with the potential for lower prices at lodges and camps.
• Southern Plains: Watch the massive Great Migration herds as they congregate on the nutrient-rich grasses of the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains to graze and give birth.

Best Months

• October
• November
• December
• January
• February

The best time for fall and winter activities in Tanzania is from April to September.  This time sees the end of the long rains and the peak of the dry season. While April and May can be challenging due to heavy rain, the period from June to September is considered the ultimate time for a safari, offering exceptional wildlife viewing and pleasant, cool weather.

The season kicks off as the rains subside and the landscape dries out. This is the time for classic game drives, thrilling walking safaris, and witnessing the dramatic Great Migration river crossings in the northern Serengeti. The clear, cool air of August is perfect for a hot-air balloon ride, while the sparse vegetation ensures that every game drive is filled with incredible sightings.

What to Expect

• River Crossings: Witness the high drama of the Great Migration as huge herds of wildebeest and zebra brave crocodile-infested waters at the Mara River in the Northern Serengeti.
• Walking Safaris: Explore the bush on foot with an expert guide during the cool, dry weather, when low vegetation allows for safe and intimate encounters with nature.
• Classic Game Drives: Enjoy the quintessential safari experience with optimal conditions for spotting the Big Five as animals congregate around rivers and waterholes.
• Balloon Safaris: Float silently over the Serengeti plains at sunrise for a breathtaking, bird’s-eye view of the vast landscape and the wildlife roaming below.
• Wildlife Photography: Capture iconic African images with golden light, dusty plains, and high concentrations of wildlife against the stark, beautiful backdrop of the dry season.
• Boating Excursions: Take a boat safari on the rivers and lakes of Nyerere National Park, offering a unique perspective for viewing hippos, crocodiles, and elephants.

Best Months

• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September

Tanzania is the embodiment of the African safari. With endless plains, dramatic craters, iconic wildlife, and charismatic cultures, it is one of Africa’s top destinations. From the Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar to Tarangire, you can enjoy the most wonderful experiences.

With plenty to see and experience on your vacation, explore our comprehensive Tanzania safari guide for invaluable insights, inspiring travel ideas, and practical tips to help you meticulously plan your dream trip. Our specialists are ready to ensure every moment perfectly aligns with your desires, transforming your luxury Tanzanian tour into an unforgettable journey.