Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari and the Great Migration

Planning a safari in Tanzania? One of the first questions travelers ask is: When is the best time to visit Tanzania? The answer depends on what kind of experience you want—whether it’s witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration, spotting the Big Five, or enjoying a quieter safari with fewer crowds.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best months for safari in Tanzania, the migration calendar, and what you can expect in each season.

Safari Seasons in Tanzania

Dry Season (June – October)

Peak safari season with clear skies and minimal rain.
Wildlife is easy to spot as animals gather near rivers and waterholes.
The Great Migration river crossings in the northern Serengeti happen during this period.
Best time for first-time safari travelers.

Green Season (November – March)

The landscape turns lush and green after the short rains.
Fewer tourists mean quieter game drives and better rates.
Calving season (January – March) in the southern Serengeti: over 500,000 wildebeest are born, attracting predators.
Excellent for birdwatching and photography.

Long Rains (April – May)

The wettest months, with some lodges closing temporarily.
Lower prices and fewer crowds.
Dramatic skies, lush scenery, and great opportunities for photographers.

Best Time to See the Great Wildebeest Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania is a year-round event, but its location changes with the seasons:

December – March: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area) – Calving season.
April – May: Central & Western Serengeti – Herds move north; lush, green landscapes.
June – July: Western Serengeti – Grumeti River crossings.
July – October: Northern Serengeti – Mara River crossings, the most dramatic migration event.
November: Eastern Serengeti – Herds move back south after the short rains.

When Should You Visit Tanzania?

For general safaris: June to October is ideal.
For the Great Migration river crossings: July to October.
For calving season: January to March.
For fewer crowds and great deals: November, April, and May.

There is no single “best” time—every season in Tanzania offers something unique. If you want dramatic wildlife encounters, plan around the Great Migration. If you prefer fewer crowds, choose the green season.

At Lomo Tanzania Safaris, we specialize in creating tailor-made itineraries that ensure you’re in the right place at the right time for the ultimate safari adventure.

Contact us today to start planning your Tanzania safari of a lifetime.