When it comes to planning your safari, the best time really depends on what you want to see and where you’d like to explore. Your travel budget can also play a big role in planning your adventure, as some months are more affordable than others.
Temperatures fluctuate across the year and regions, and so does tourists’ presence: certain periods can be busy and having a more intimate experience might be harder.
In this article we will dive into which are the best moments to visit Tanzania for a safari, looking at the weather conditions and other variables as how crowded it might be.
Alright, let’s get started.
Tanzania safari areas and the weather
When it comes to safaris, Tanzania has an incredible range of choices for tourists. From national parks to natural landmarks to nature rites, a lot is available.
Even though Tanzania’s weather is reasonably consistent, it is important to bear in mind which area one desires to visit to be able to prepare for it adequately.
Looking at it geographically, we can categorize safaris areas as follows:
- Northern Tanzania: it encompasses Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and national parks of Serengeti, Ndutu, Arusha, Tarangire and Lake Manyara.
- Southern Tanzania: it includes national parks of Ruaha, Nyerere, Udzungwa, Kitulo and Mikumi.
- Western Tanzania: three national parks are located in the western portion of the territory, Mahale Mountains, Gombe Stream and Katavi.
Western and Southern areas typically experience more rainfall during the long and short rainy seasons (more on this later). During these times, certain areas might become inaccessible, which is not what anyone looking for.
Also, the Southern area is generally more humid compared to the other two. Avoid planning your safari there during one of the rainy seasons.
For these reasons, typically the Northern area is the best option during both raining seasons.
Talking about them, let’s explore how these seasons look like.
Tanzania weather seasons
Tanzania has a tropical climate, which means the weather is generally pleasant, with warm days and cool evenings year-round. However, before you finalize your travel dates, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the different seasons in Tanzania and weigh the pros and cons of each.
There are three main seasons to consider:
- Dry season: June to October plus January and February.
- Short wet season: November to December.
- Long wet season: March, April and May.
These seasons affect each safari area differently. Let’s start with our hometown.
Arusha
Our headquarters are located in Arusha, right in the middle of Northern circuit. Most of safaris have a start point in Arusha, that is located at 1400 meters above sea level, on the southern slopes of Mount Meru. The climate is a typical temperate highland one, with two distinct seasons:
- Wet: known locally as Masika, it goes from March to May.
- Dry: called by Vuli by locals, it goes from June to December. The last two months are the driest.
So, if you want to improve your chances of enjoying your safari around Arusha with dry weather, choose between June to February.
Ideal seasons for a safari in Tanzania
Now, let’s have a look at how the different seasons unfold across Tanzania.
Dry season
Traveling during this time is absolutely fantastic! With the dry conditions and limited water sources, animals tend to gather around specific spots, making it much easier to spot them compared to other seasons.
Along with the thrilling game drives each day where you can see the famed African “Big Five” and other incredible wildlife in East Africa’s parks and reserves.
We can break this down into the different periods of the season.
June
It’s the transition from the wet season to the dry season, bringing along perfect weather. Just the right balance between not too hot and not too cold.
Additionally, safari prices this month are often more affordable than at other times during the season. Some accommodations offer better deals, which is always a nice bonus.
Typical safari temperatures range from 27°C (81°F) during the day to 14°C (57°F) at night.
Tourists numbers are high but lower than during other peak season months like from July to October. With our experienced safari guides, you can enjoy more exclusive game drives.
July through October
If you’re looking for an incredible wildlife experience, visiting the Northern Serengeti between July and early October is a perfect choice!
This is the time to witness the breathtaking Great Migration, where over 2.5 million wildebeests and zebras make their epic journey across the Mara River, all while being followed by some hungry crocodiles.
If catching the famous Mara River Crossing is on your bucket list, be sure to plan your trip during these months!
The weather during these months is great. However, the daytime heat can be intense and uncomfortable. During the safari, we recommend taking advantage of the early mornings (between 6 AM and 6:30 AM) and the evenings for game drives, as these times offer the best opportunities for spotting wildlife.
Average temperatures while on a safari typically vary from 28°C (82°F) during the daytime to 14°C (57°F) at night.
This is peak season, making it the most expensive time to travel. Remember that some accommodations might offer better prices after the second week of September and into October.
This is the busiest time of year, with many tourists, especially during July and August due to summer holidays. If that is an important aspect for you, consider visiting during September or October.
January and February
This is the time of the exciting Great Migration Calving Season! Ndutu, part of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Ecosystem, comes alive as around a quarter of a million baby wildebeests are born during this time.
It’s not just adorable. This period also attracts young predators who are honing their skills on the vulnerable little ones, giving you a front-row seat to some thrilling wildlife action. Plus, you can see numerous other animals and their adorable cubs.
Temperatures typically range from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F) during the day, while in the evening they drop to 13°C (55°F) and 16°C (61°F).
Prices are higher, since it’s the exciting peak of the season. Bear in mind that accommodation options near the Great Migration venues are limited, impacting both on price and availability.
Safari areas can be often crowded, still not as much as between July and October.
This season is ideal for safaris, featuring pleasantly mild weather and lush, vibrant scenery. It’s a magical experience not to be missed.
Notice: at times, during January and February, there might be chances of rain at night, especially in Ndutu and Southern Serengeti. However, these rainfalls should not interfere with game drives.
Short wet season
This is our absolute favorite time to travel! The lush green landscapes are stunning, and the weather is just perfect: not too hot and not too cold. Plus, you can find some great deals on safaris, and the best part is that the game drives are fantastic with fewer crowds.
During this period, Tanzania experiences its short rainy season. While the weather can be a bit unpredictable at times, it still offers amazing opportunities for wildlife viewing.
With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you can spot just as many animals as you would in the dry season. Since it’s wet, animals tend to come out near the main roads, making it easier to catch a glimpse of them!
If you’re visiting during this time, make the most of those early mornings (starting around 6am) and late afternoons for your game drives. It usually doesn’t rain during those hours! If it does rain, it’s more likely in the late afternoons or at night, so you still have plenty of time to enjoy your adventures in lovely weather.
One of the best highlights of this season is tracking the Great Migration on your typical game drive days! In November, the Great Migration is scattered across the lush Central Serengeti plains, and by December, they start to move down to the southern part of the Serengeti, getting ready for the calving season in January. It’s such an exciting time to be out in the wild!
The weather in the last two months of the year is excellent for safaris. Typical daytime temperatures during a safari range from 27°C (81°F) to 15°C (59°F) at night.
Crowd: the tourist numbers plummet compared to the busy months of July to October, allowing for a more intimate experience. This is absolutely the best time to savor private game drives and other excursions in a relaxed setting. Consider that the last two weeks of December, typical holidays in some countries, see a rise in the number of visitors.
Prices: November is an ideal time for an incredible safari experience at a great value. As it’s shoulder season, prices decrease, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable adventure without breaking the bank. On the same way, the last two weeks see a rise in the prices.
Long wet season
These months may not be the best for a safari, but don’t worry! There are still some opportunities for nice game drives and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
The first half of March is mostly dry and a wonderful time to experience the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu. This is when the Great Migration and Calving Season are in full swing. You’re in for some amazing sights!
The first week of April is also a lovely time for a safari. The weather is quite similar to what you’d find in November and December, with pleasant early mornings and afternoons perfect for game drives. The last week of April can also offer great experiences.
Moving into May, you’re in for a treat! Most of the month is fantastic for game drives, as it signals the end of the rainy season. The weather during May resembles that of June, with rain mostly falling at night. If there are showers during the day, they’re usually brief and won’t disrupt your adventures.
Special tip: if you’re planning to travel during this season, a friendly tip would be to steer clear of the last two weeks of March and the middle two weeks of April.
Weather: the first two weeks of March are generally dry, with occasional evening and nighttime showers or heavy rain that usually last just a few minutes. Don’t worry; these short rains typically don’t interfere with your game drives! However, the last two weeks of March mark the beginning of the rainy season
April is in the midst of the long wet season, which means poor road conditions and a number of lodges closed. During May rainfall decreases significantly, usually concentrated in the evenings or nights.
Temperatures: in March temperatures on safari typically range from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F). In the evenings, temperatures drop to between 13°C (55°F) and 16°C (61°F). During April they vary from a daytime high of 25°C (77°F) to an evening low of 12°C (56°F). In May it ranges from a high of 25°C (77°F) during the day to a low of 12°C (56°F) at night.
Crowd: during Long wet season game drives are private offering a sense of exclusivity. The same goes for accommodations.
Price: except for the first two weeks of March, this time of year is categorized as the low season, leading to considerable discounts on safari prices.
Climate change and safaris in Tanzania
Climate change is having a significant impact on Tanzania, and this extends to its renowned safari experiences. The rising temperatures and changes in rainfall patterns are affecting the natural habitats and wildlife that make safaris in Tanzania so special.
For instance, the increasing frequency of intense rainfall events is causing flooding, which can damage infrastructure and make certain areas inaccessible. This is particularly relevant for safari areas in the Western and Southern parts of Tanzania, which tend to receive more rainfall during the long and short rain seasons. As a result, a safari in these regions will require more careful planning due to the potential for poor road conditions and limited accessibility.
On the other hand, the Northern safari areas, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, are generally more accessible during the wet seasons. However, even these areas are not immune to the effects of climate change. The prolonged dry spells and water scarcity are impacting the availability of water sources, which in turn affects the movement and behavior of wildlife – essential for a game drive. This can influence the overall safari experience, as animals may gather around fewer water sources, making them easier to spot but also potentially leading to overcrowding at these locations.
In response to these challenges, Tanzania has developed several strategies and programs to adapt and mitigate the effects of climate change. These efforts aim to protect the environment and ensure that the unique safari experiences Tanzania offers can continue to thrive despite the changing climate.
Overall, while climate change poses significant challenges, Tanzania is taking steps to adapt and preserve its natural beauty and wildlife. By being mindful of the best times to visit and the potential impacts of climate change, you can still enjoy an unforgettable safari experience in this incredible country.
Your perfect safari requires planning!
Tanzania offers unforgettable safari experiences year-round, with each season bringing unique opportunities and challenges. Whether you’re drawn to the Great Migration, lush green landscapes, or intimate game drives away from crowds, there’s a perfect time for everyone.
Contact us today to receive expert guidance and full support in planning your dream safari adventure. Let’s make your Tanzanian safari an experience you’ll never forget!