Best Months to Safari in Tanzania for 2025 & 2026: Tanzania is one of the world’s top safari destinations, offering incredible wildlife encounters year-round. However, the timing of your safari can greatly impact the quality of your experience. From witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti to spotting the Big Five in Ngorongoro, understanding the best months to safari in Tanzania in 2025 ensures you get the most out of your adventure. This guide covers the top months to visit and what to expect during each season.
Best Months to Safari in Tanzania for 2025 & 2026 : Understanding Tanzania’s Safari Seasons
Tanzania’s safari seasons are defined by the rains and the dry periods, which significantly affect animal movements and visibility. The dry season generally runs from June to October, while the wet season covers November to May.
Best Months to Safari in Tanzania for 2025 & 2026 : Key Safari Seasons:
- Dry season (June to October): Best for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
- Wet season (November to May): Best for birdwatching and seeing lush, green landscapes, though some parks may be harder to access.
Learn more about the best times for a safari in Africa.
2. January to February: Calving Season in the Serengeti
The start of the year is the perfect time to visit Tanzania if you want to witness the Great Migration’s calving season in the southern Serengeti. Thousands of wildebeest give birth during this period, which also attracts predators like lions and cheetahs. The short grass makes it easier to spot animals, and the weather is generally warm and dry.
Highlights:
- Wildebeest calving: See newborn wildebeest and their first steps.
- Predator activity: Watch lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunt during this vulnerable period.
- Great weather: January and February offer warm days with minimal rain.
Discover more about the calving season in the Serengeti.
3. March to May: Green Season and Birdwatching
While the long rainy season from March to May is not the most popular time for traditional safaris, it’s a fantastic period for birdwatching. Migratory birds flock to Tanzania’s wetlands, and the national parks come alive with vibrant greenery. This season also offers fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for those seeking a quieter experience.
Highlights:
- Birdwatching: Spot migratory species in parks like Lake Manyara and Tarangire.
- Lush landscapes: Enjoy beautiful, green scenery with fewer crowds.
- Off-season deals: Take advantage of lower prices on safari lodges and camps.
Read more about the best times for birdwatching in Tanzania.
4. June to October: Peak Wildlife Viewing and the Great Migration
The dry season from June to October is the most popular time for safaris in Tanzania, and for good reason. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around dwindling water sources. During these months, the Great Migration reaches the Serengeti’s western corridor and continues north toward the Mara River, where the dramatic river crossings occur.
Highlights:
- Great Migration river crossings: Witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras braving the Mara River, with predators lurking nearby.
- Big Five sightings: Head to the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire for excellent opportunities to see lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo.
- Cool, dry weather: Comfortable temperatures and little rain make for ideal safari conditions.
Learn more about the Great Migration river crossings.
5. November to December: Short Rains and New Beginnings
As the short rains begin in November, the Great Migration returns to the southern Serengeti. This is a beautiful time to visit, as the rains transform the landscapes into lush, green plains. November and December are great months for those seeking fewer crowds and the opportunity to witness the migration’s return journey.
Highlights:
- Great Migration return: See the herds make their way back to the Serengeti for calving.
- Fewer tourists: Enjoy quieter parks and more affordable accommodation options.
- Scenic landscapes: The rain rejuvenates the plains, making for beautiful photo opportunities.
Discover more about Tanzania’s short rainy season.
6. Best Parks to Visit by Month
While Tanzania’s national parks offer exceptional wildlife year-round, some are better during specific months. Here’s a breakdown of which parks to visit depending on the time of year.
January to February:
- Serengeti: Calving season, predator activity.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Great for spotting the Big Five, especially rhinos.
March to May:
- Lake Manyara: Best for birdwatching and lush landscapes.
- Tarangire National Park: Offers excellent elephant sightings and birdlife.
June to October:
- Serengeti: Great Migration river crossings.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Ideal for Big Five sightings during the dry season.
November to December:
- Southern Serengeti: Migration herds return, green landscapes.
- Ruaha National Park: Good for predator sightings and birdwatching.
Learn more about the best parks to visit in Tanzania by season.
7. Packing Tips for Your Safari
Regardless of the time of year, packing the right gear is essential for a comfortable safari. Tanzania’s climate can vary, so layering is key. Always bring light clothing for the hot days, but don’t forget warm layers for the cool mornings and evenings, especially if you’re visiting during the dry season.
Must-Have Items:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing: Ideal for hot daytime temperatures.
- Waterproof jacket: Essential if visiting during the rainy season.
- Binoculars and camera: Capture the incredible wildlife and landscapes.
- Sunscreen and hat: Protect yourself from the strong African sun.
Find more packing tips for safaris.
8. Planning Your Safari with Experts
To make the most of your safari, it’s important to plan with experienced guides who understand the local wildlife and seasons. Eddy Tours & Safaris offers tailored safari packages that match your travel dates with the best wildlife encounters in Tanzania’s top parks. Whether you’re interested in the Great Migration, birdwatching, or seeing the Big Five, Eddy Tours will ensure an unforgettable experience.
For those looking to combine a Mount Kilimanjaro climb with their safari, Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist offers personalized trekking packages that perfectly align with Tanzania’s prime safari seasons.
Start planning your safari with local experts today.
Best Months to Safari in Tanzania for 2025 & 2026 : Conclusion
Whether you want to witness the Great Migration, encounter the Big Five, or enjoy birdwatching during the green season, Tanzania offers a range of safari experiences throughout the year. The key to a successful trip is understanding the best months to safari in Tanzania in 2025, allowing you to plan your adventure around optimal wildlife sightings and comfortable weather conditions.
For expertly guided safari experiences and custom itineraries, visit Eddy Tours & Safaris. If you’re considering a Kilimanjaro climb, explore Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist for a combination of trekking and safari packages.