Safari seasons in Tanzania are shaped by the rains. There is a long rainy season roughly from March to May, a short one around November, and dry months in between. Each season has its own benefits.
Dry season: June to October
The main safari season. Vegetation thins and animals gather near water, making them easier to see. The weather is mostly sunny and dry, nights are cool, and roads are in good condition. July to October is the time of the river crossings in the north of the Serengeti. It is also the busiest season, so book early.
Short dry spell: December to February
Warm weather, with some showers around November and December. January to March is the calving season on the southern Serengeti plains, which means lots of young animals and active predators. Tarangire stays good in many years. This is a very rewarding period for those who like the combination of wildlife and green landscapes.
Long rains: March to May
The wettest months. Showers are often short and in the afternoon, but some days are rainy. The landscape is lush, the skies are dramatic, prices are generally lower and there are far fewer vehicles. Some lodges and camps close, and some roads are difficult. It is an interesting season for birders and for travellers who prefer quiet.
Birdwatching
Resident birds are present all year, and migratory species arrive from Europe and Asia between roughly November and April. That makes the green season a good time for birders.
Matching the season to your wishes
- Maximum wildlife and settled weather: June to October.
- Newborn animals and predators: late January to March, southern plains.
- River crossings: July to October, northern Serengeti.
- Quiet trails and lower prices: April, May and November.
- Combining safari with a beach: June to October, or January and February, work well for Zanzibar too.
Combining safari with Kilimanjaro
January to March and June to October are the best months for climbing Kilimanjaro as well, so a mountain and safari trip fits nicely in those windows.
Tell us your dates
If your dates are fixed, we will explain what you can expect to see and suggest the parks and camps that suit your travel month.
Updated 15 October 2026
