Tanzania is a year-round safari destination, offering diverse experiences depending on the time of visit. Choosing the right season can significantly impact your safari experience, from wildlife sightings to accommodation costs and weather conditions. At Bornwild Tours & Safaris, we help travelers pick the best time to explore Tanzania based on their preferences, budget, and desired activities. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the high and low seasons, along with our recommendations.
High Season (June to October) – Peak Safari Experience
Why Visit During High Season?
The dry season from June to October is the most popular time for safaris in Tanzania. With minimal rainfall, vegetation is sparse, making wildlife easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. This period also coincides with the world-famous Great Migration in the Serengeti, offering breathtaking river crossings as wildebeests brave crocodile-infested waters.
Key Highlights:
- Best Wildlife Viewing: The dry conditions make it easier to see the Big Five and other animals in national parks like Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro Crater.
- Great Migration Action: Witness the dramatic Mara River crossings in July and August.
- Pleasant Weather: Cool mornings and evenings, with warm, dry days.
- Best Time for Hot Air Balloon Safaris: The calm, clear skies provide perfect flying conditions over the Serengeti.
Considerations:
- Higher prices for accommodations and park fees due to demand.
- Some popular areas may be crowded, especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Low Season (March to May) – The Green and Quiet Season
Why Visit During Low Season?
The long rains from March to May bring lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists. While some roads may be challenging due to mud, this period offers fantastic opportunities for those seeking solitude, lower prices, and dramatic photography.
Key Highlights:
- Budget-Friendly: Lower accommodation rates and discounts on safari packages.
- Rich Scenery: Vibrant landscapes, full rivers, and fewer crowds.
- Best for Birdwatching: Migratory birds are abundant, making it a paradise for bird lovers.
- Great for Canoeing: Parks like Arusha and Selous offer serene canoe safaris through flooded plains.
Considerations:
- Some lodges and camps may close due to rain.
- Wildlife disperses more, making game viewing slightly more challenging.
- Some activities, like hot air balloon rides, may be limited due to weather conditions.
Shoulder Season (November to February) – A Balanced Choice
For those looking for a mix of good weather, great wildlife sightings, and fewer crowds, the short rainy season from November to February is an excellent time to visit. This period offers a beautiful balance between the perks of the high and low seasons.
Key Highlights:
- Calving Season (January to February): The Southern Serengeti becomes a nursery for wildebeest calves, attracting predators and thrilling game viewing.
- Ideal for Walking Safaris: Comfortable temperatures and fresh greenery make it a great time for immersive nature walks.
- Night Game Drives: Cooler nights provide opportunities to witness nocturnal wildlife in parks like Tarangire and Lake Manyara.
- Less Crowded Parks: Enjoy more privacy and exclusivity in lodges and game reserves.
Our Recommendation
No matter what time of year you visit Tanzania, there is something special to experience. If witnessing the Great Migration and having optimal wildlife sightings is your priority, then the dry season from June to October is the best choice. During this period, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro offer spectacular game viewing, while activities like hot air balloon safaris and night game drives are at their peak. The weather is pleasant, and with minimal rainfall, accessibility to different parks is seamless, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience. However, this season also comes with higher costs and more visitors, so early booking is highly recommended to secure the best accommodations.
For travelers looking for a more budget-friendly safari with fewer crowds and stunning green landscapes, the low season from March to May is an excellent alternative. This period is perfect for photographers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a quieter, more immersive safari. The shoulder season from November to February is also a great option, offering a balance of good prices, fewer crowds, and unique wildlife experiences such as the wildebeest calving season. No matter your preference, Bornwild Tours & Safaris will tailor your adventure to match your needs, ensuring a truly unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s breathtaking wilderness.
