Best Time to visit Tanzania
Best Time for a Tanzania Safari Holiday
Best Time to visit Tanzania for safaris
Best time for safaris and holidays in Tanzania
Ideally, the best time to visit Tanzania for safaris and tours is during the dry seasons of the Year. These seasons are also known as peak and high seasons. That’s between January and March, which is the high season, and July to October, which is known to be the peak season. This season coincides with interesting events that happen in Tanzania, like the calving of wildebeests in February and the wildebeest migration and crossings in July to October.
Tanzania offers a wide array of safari activities that you can engage in at any time of the year. But the most important aspects that attract tourists to Tanzania are the wildlife sightings, the holiday in Zanzibar, and summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro. The Best Time to go on Safari in the Serengeti is between June and October every year. This is the best time to see the wildebeest migration in Northern Serengeti National Park.
You can also visit Ngorongoro Crater in all seasons, but when is the best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater? It’s between January and March. When the wildebeests are busy giving birth in Ndutu, a lot of wildlife is also seen in Ngorongoro, and these attract lots of big cats since food is plentiful.
Visit Tanzania between January and March to witness more than 8000 wildebeest calves being born daily. This is known as the start of a wildebeest’s life, as they look forward to conquering and trying to fight for their survival in the next few years they will live. It’s the best time to visit Tanzania, specifically the Ndutu Conservation Area, south of the Serengeti.
You can also be planning to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. With its own uniqueness and majestic views, this mountain offers an epic adventure to conquer at the right time. The Best time to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro is between January and March, and between June to December. At least when the weather is not that wet, and not that hot.
Tanzania Safaris offers authentic safari experiences throughout the year. Visit the famous Ngorongoro Crater, or even the Tarangire National Park, or fly to Zanzibar for a beach holiday; these can all be done despite rain or sun. But get the best facts to visit and plan accordingly to visit your desired destination in Tanzania.
Tanzania Safaris Seasonal Guide
Best Weather Guide to plan your Tanzania Safari. We have listed them according to months and major destinations in Tanzania.
| Season | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Serengeti | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Ngorongoro | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Tarangire | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Lake Manyara | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Karatu | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Lake Eyasi | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Arusha | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Moshi | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Dar Es Salaam | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Ruaha | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Nyerere | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Gombe | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Katavi | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
Detailed Month by month Tanzania Travel guide
TANZANIA TRAVEL GUIDE - best safari guide to Tanzania
We have detailed the best time to visit Tanzania by month, including the best times, the climatic conditions, and recommended places to visit within that month. Kindly note that the below monthly details are guided by our long experience through Tanzania Safaris. They might change due to changes in climatic changes.
January
Dry and Hot Season :- High Season
Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C
January offers an amazing opportunity to witness most of the wildlife species. One of the best months in Tanzania to visit the Ndutu Conservation Area in Tanzania. The country is hot and dry after short rains in November and December. It’s easy to spot big cats and other wildlife species. It’s also the best time to witness more than 8000 wildebeest calves i Ndutu and Serengeti South. It’s the best time to visit out of the busy seasons.
What to do in January
Best for a Safari in Ndutu and South Serengeti For Wildebeest Sightings
You can do so much in Tanzania during this time of the year. Some of the best things to do are summit the highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro, go on a beach holiday vacation in Zanzibar, and enjoy a safari in any of the National Parks. But one of the unique events that happens in January is the birthing season of wildebeests in Ndutu.
February
Dry and Hot Season :- High Season
Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C
February is a wonderful month for a Tanzania Safari. During this month, the wildebeest birthing intensifies, and you will witness lots of wildebeest being born every minute. It’s also the best time to spot big cats in action as they enjoy hunting down the calves since food is plentiful. The month tends to be hot and a bit dry and wet, as long rains start coming towards the end of the month to begin the wet season.
What to do in February
Best for a Safari in Ndutu For wildebeest Calving
You can do so much in Tanzania during this time of the year. Some of the best things to do are summit the highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro, go on a beach holiday vacation in Zanzibar, and enjoy a safari in any of the National Parks. But one of the unique events that happen in January is the birthing season of wildebeests in Ndutu.
March
Dry and Hot Season :- High Season
Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C
In March, the weather tends to change, and the start of the wet season begins. Rain is expected to stay long in so many parts of the country, including the Zanzibar beaches and the southern part of the country. The wildebeest’s calves and the adults start to move north towards the central side of Serengeti. The best time to spot them move in herds. The best mode of transfer during this time is by flight, to avoid muddy roads.
What to do in March
Best for a Safari in Serengeti - Tarangire - Ndutu
During this month of the Year, March has nothing much to do due to the rainy season. The start of wet season begins in March. The long rains that stay from March to June, also make these season low in tourism due to the rough roads and fewer wildlife sightings. During this wet season, you can not hike the mountains or visit the beach. Though these are not limitations, you can still make them happen. Safaris are cheap and affordable during this season but recommended you fly.
April
Wet Season :- Low Season
Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C
In April, the rains intensifies in most parts of Tanzania, making it hard to travel. Roads become impassable and hard to drive through them. Although it’s the best time to visit for a luxury safari and enjoy exclusive safari holidays, it will be hard to spot wildlife and enjoy sightings. The best way to safari during this season is by choosing our flying safaris. The wildebeests keep on moving north, staying around Seronera and the Eastern part of Serengeti.
What to do in April
Best for a Safari in Central Serengeti - Ngorongoro - Tarangire
During this month of the Year, April has nothing much to do due to the heavy rainy season. The long rains that stay from March to June also make this season low in tourism due to the rough roads and fewer wildlife sightings. During this wet season, you can not hike the mountains or visit the beach. Though these are not limitations, you can still make them happen. Safaris are cheap and affordable during this season, but it’s recommended that you fly.
May
Wet Season :- Low Season
Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C
In May, the rains continue to intensify in most parts of Tanzania, making it hard to traverse the different parts of the country. Roads become impassable and hard to drive through them. Although it’s the best time to visit for a luxury safari and enjoy exclusive safari holidays, it will be hard to spot wildlife and enjoy sightings. The best way to safari during this season is by choosing our flying safaris. In some cases, the month tends to be hot and wet, offering the best chances to enjoy safaris by road.
What to do in May
Best for a Safari in Central Serengeti - Ngorongoro - Tarangire
May has nothing much to do due to the ongoing rainy season from March. The long rains continue to pound most parts of the country. Although the month can be hot sometimes, the rains are common. May is still the low season for tourism due to the rough roads and fewer wildlife sightings. In May, you can hike the mountains or visit the beach. Safaris are cheap and affordable during this season, but recommended that you fly, or you can enjoy a 4×4 Land Cruiser jeep safari. Enjoy the rough roads and muddy patches.
June
Wet Season :- High Season
Temperatures:- High of 25°C and lows of 17°C
June offers a friendly environment and weather for a comfortable safari in Tanzania. The months tend to be cold and wet as the rains reduce, making the safari experience favorable. Although the cold season starts off in June and towards July. The wildebeest migration starts to form, and herds move closer to crossing points in Grumeti and other areas almost to the Mara River. It’s also best to tick that bucket list to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. The weather is favorable for doing some more excursions such as balloon safaris.
What to do in June
Best for a Safari in Central Serengeti - Ngorongoro - Tarangire - Kilimanjaro
May has nothing much to do due to the ongoing rainy season from March. The long rains continue to pound most parts of the country. Although the month can be hot sometimes, the rains are common. May is still the low season for tourism due to the rough roads and fewer wildlife sightings. In May, you can hike the mountains or visit the beach. Safaris are cheap and affordable during this season, but recommended that you fly, or you can enjoy a 4×4 Land Cruiser jeep safari. Enjoy the rough roads and muddy patches.
July
Cold and Wet Season :- Peak Season
Temperatures:- High of 25°C and lows of 17°C
July starts the peak season of safaris and tours in Tanzania. This month is best visited for the wildebeest crossings in Northern Serengeti. The month is a bit cold with lows of 15 degrees, which marks the winter season. The rains would have ended in June, but the cold season makes it a bit challenging for most people. You spot big cats, wildlife species, and much more, especially in the national parks.
What to do in July
Best for a Safari in Central Serengeti - Ngorongoro - Tarangire
July is the best month for the wildebeest migration, hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro, and engaging in most activities that this country offers. Witness the wildebeest crossings up north in Serengeti towards the end of July. Visit the Ngorongoro Crater and enjoy sightings of wildlife. There is much you can do in July.
August
Dry and Hot Season :- Peak Season
Temperatures:- High of 25°C and lows of 17°C
One of the best months of the year for wildlife sightings and safari holidays in Tanzania. August is hot and dry in most cases. The temperatures are high at 26 degrees, making it easy to spot most wildlife species. Big cats are easily spotted this month. The temperatures are high, 26 degrees, making it very hot. It’s also the best time to visit various popular safari destinations in Tanzania, such as Zanzibar, for beach holidays.
What to do in August
Best for a Safari in Central Serengeti - Ngorongoro - Tarangire
August tends to be a busy month, with lots of tourists and guests visiting Tanzania, some for safari holidays and others for business. The country receives enough guests, making safari destinations crowded. You witness the wildebeest crossings or spend some nights on Zanzibar beach, the best time to hike and summit Mt. Kilimanjaro, and also the best time to spot great wildlife sightings in Ngorongoro Crater.
September
Dry and Hot Season :- Peak Season
Temperatures:- High of 25°C and lows of 17°C
One of the best months of the year for wildlife sightings and safari holidays in Tanzania. September is hot and dry in most cases. The temperatures are high, making it easy to spot most wildlife species. Big cats are easily spotted this month. The temperatures are high 26 degrees making is so hot. It’s also the best time to visit various popular safari destinations in Tanzania such as Zanzibar for beach holidays.
What to do in September
Best for a Safari in Central Serengeti - Ngorongoro - Tarangire
September tends to be a busy month, but the number of guests reduces from August, with lots of tourists and guests visiting Tanzania, for safari holidays. The country receives enough guests, making safari destinations crowded. You witness the wildebeest crossings or spend some nights on Zanzibar beach, the best time to hike and summit Mt. Kilimanjaro, and also the best time to spot great wildlife sightings in Ngorongoro crater.
October
Dry and Hot Season :- Peak Season
Temperatures:- High of 25°C and lows of 17°C
The peak season ends in October. The Month is still hot and dry, but short rains usually arrive toward the end of the month. It’s a better month to enjoy wildebeest sightings and crossings with fewer crowds in the reserves and parks in Tanzania. The month is quiet and just easy to relax. The Temperatures are still early even during rainy days. The weather is favorable for Mt. Kilimanjaro hiking and a holiday on Zanzibar beach.
What to do in October
Best for a Safari in Serengeti - Ngorongoro - Ruaha
If you are looking to enjoy activities in October in any part of Tanzania, consider booking your safari for that month. It offers off-the-beaten-track safari experiences, including hiking on Mt. Kilimanjaro. You can fly to Zanzibar for your beach holiday, and visit the Ruaha N. park for wild dogs and the pride of lions. Easy to drive through the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
November
Dry and Hot Season :- Peak Season
Temperatures:- High of 22°C and lows of 17°C
In November, the rains are little and not much as compared to the long rains in Feb to May and June, but then welcome a cold season of June and July. The temperatures go down from a high of 22 Degrees to a low of up to 18 degrees. a better month to experience a comfortable luxury safari while the plains are green and lush. The grass are tall making sightings hard.
What to do in November
Best for a Safari in Central Serengeti - Ngorongoro - Tarangire
November offers a good chance to enjoy safaris and some other safari activities. The month is hot and wet, but the rains usually end during this month. You can visit the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and other premium parks in Tanzania. You will be lucky to spot wildlife such as big cats and other species. It’s also a good month to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru.
December
Dry and Hot Season :- High Season
Temperatures:- High of 25°C and lows of 17°C
December is the month of festivities, the Christmas holidays, and the New year. Lots of people plan for a family safari or a beach holiday during this time. The month is hot and dry. Making a perfect month for a beach holiday in Zanzibar. The start of December is noted to be the high season, but as the months close to the festivities, the Peak season comes in.
What to do in November
Best for a Safari in Central Serengeti - Ngorongoro - Tarangire
Since December is a festivity month, we recommend you book both a wildlife safari and a beach holiday. These best suit families looking to close the year refreshingly. You can also visit other premium safari parks in Tanzania, such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Top Kenya Safaris and Tour Itineraries
Best Customised Kenya Safari itineraries
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Cost: USD 4,905 PPS
No. of Nights 6
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Cost: USD 3,228 PPS
No. of Nights 3
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Book Your Tanzania Safari Holidays with Cheetah Safaris
Choosing Cheetah Safaris for your Tanzania safari adventure, you can be assured of a professionally guided experience that has been rooted in over 15 years of East African expertise. As safari experts on the ground, we ensure a safe and smooth booking process that takes care of all the logistical aspects, from airport pickups to high-end accommodations.
Our in-depth knowledge of the region enables us to take you off the beaten track and into the depths of the wild, providing a safe, professional, and intimate safari experience of Tanzania’s most renowned landscapes.
At Cheetah Safaris, we firmly believe that the key to a successful safari adventure is the expertise of your guide. Our staff comprises the best Silver and Gold-level professional guides who have an uncanny skill for tracking the Big Five and imparting knowledge about the ecosystem.
Whether you are exploring the endless plains of the Serengeti or the geological wonder of the Ngorongoro Crater, our guides will ensure that your game drives are both an educational and exhilarating experience.
Financial Protection
You are guranteed of a safe, and peace of mind booking process, and as well safari payments. We ensure that your payments are secure and safe.
Sustainable Practices
Keeping in mind our efforts in wildlife, environment and natural resources protections, we are sustainable travel conscious and aware.
Ground Safari Expert
We Know Africa more than any one. We love taking our guests to the less explored destinations. Experiencing the magical touch of African Wild.
Positive Impact
Our Safaris are not only sustainable, but create very positive impacts to so many. We engage in school programmes, that inspires our future leaders.
15 Years of Experience
Cheetah Safaris has a combined of 69 years of safari expertise and practice in Africa. We will take care of your safari from arrival till departure.
Proffessional Guides
We have the best safari guides in East Africa. All our guides are Silver and Gold Guides. Hence you will learn so much with them while on safari.
Tanzania safaris FAQs
Having Questions? Learn about our Tanzania Safaris Bookings Q&A
If you have any questions regarding any of our Tanzania Safari tours, you may find your answer below in our most frequently asked questions. However, don’t be afraid to get in touch if your query is not included for our experts to help you design your best Bush and Tanzania Safaris.
Our team is happy to help discuss any of our safari packages, destinations, or general information, so you have peace of mind! Get in touch with us now.
When is the wildebeest migration in Tanzania?
The wildebeest migration takes place in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve between July and October, with the peak river crossing taking place between August and September. During this time, large herds of wildebeests migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania to graze the lush grass of the Mara.
Which months are best for spotting predators in Kenya?
The optimal periods for predator sightings in Kenya are June to October (dry season/migration) and January to February. At these times, the limited vegetation and water availability cause animals to congregate, making it easier to observe lions, leopards, and cheetahs in the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and other major national parks.
Are there mosquitoes in Kenya?
Yes, there are mosquitoes in Kenya, and they are always present throughout the year because of the tropical climate, and their numbers are higher during the rainy seasons, which occur between April and June and between November and December.
What should I pack for a Kenya safari?
Pack neutral-colored, breathable layers (khaki/beige) to blend in and avoid tsetse flies. Bring a warm fleece for cooler mornings, closed shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and insect repellent. Most importantly, do not bring any plastic bags, as they are illegal in Kenya.
Pack For a Purpose
Cheetah Safaris is a serious advocate of sustainable safari practices in Africa. As part of our efforts and initiative, we engage and support schools and children who need knowledge to better their lives. The best gift a child can be given is education, skills, and creativity.
In this case, we request our guests booking with us, to bring an extra back of supplies. This can be in terms of books, sports materials, and any other items that would change the lives of these kids.
- Education
- Sustainable Travel
- Wildlife Conservation
Let us help you customize your trip
Like all of our holidays on this site, this is just an idea. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we’ll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert
Browse our Cheetah Safaris Website. We’ll match you with a Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you plan your next safari adventure. To start, submit your Safari Inquiries.
Prepare for your trip
Our Safari experts will be of help in planning your safari from start to end. They will advise you on all that you need to pack and travel documents, too. They will be ready to answer any queries you have.
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