A complete month-by-month guide to Tanzania's safari seasons, Great Migration timing, weather patterns, and wildlife viewing peaks across our key destinations.
June – October
Dry season. Best wildlife viewing. Mara River crossings July-September. Higher rates, book 6+ months ahead.
January – February
500,000+ wildebeest give birth in Southern Serengeti. Dramatic predator action. Moderate rates.
March – May, November
Green season with 30-50% lower rates. Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, excellent birdwatching.
Every month offers something unique. Here's what to expect across our key destinations.
| Month | Season | Temperature | Rainfall | Crowds | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Green Season | 25-30°C | High | Low | 4/5 |
| February | Green Season | 25-30°C | Medium | Low | 5/5 |
| March | Long Rains | 24-29°C | Very High | Very Low | 2/5 |
| April | Long Rains | 23-28°C | Very High | Very Low | 2/5 |
June to October is peak dry season with excellent wildlife viewing. July-September offers the iconic Mara River crossings. January-February is calving season with dramatic predator action in Southern Serengeti.
The Great Migration is a year-round cycle. Calving occurs January-February in the Southern Serengeti. Grumeti River crossings happen in June. The famous Mara River crossings occur July-September. Herds return south October-December.
Yes! Green season (November-May) offers lower prices, fewer tourists, lush landscapes, excellent birdwatching, and calving season (Jan-Feb). Roads can be challenging March-April, but the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire remain accessible year-round.
March-May (long rains) and November (short rains) offer the lowest rates, often 30-50% less than peak season. May and November are excellent value months with decent wildlife viewing as the rains ease.
Our safari experts will help you choose the perfect time and itinerary based on your interests, budget, and travel dates.
| May | Long Rains End | 23-28°C | High | Low | 3/5 |
| June | Dry Season | 20-27°C | Low | Medium | 5/5 |
| July | Dry Season | 19-26°C | Very Low | High | 5/5 |
| August | Dry Season | 20-27°C | Very Low | High | 5/5 |
| September | Dry Season | 21-28°C | Very Low | Medium-High | 5/5 |
| October | Short Rains Start | 22-29°C | Medium | Medium | 4/5 |
| November | Short Rains | 23-29°C | High | Low | 3/5 |
| December | Short Rains End | 24-30°C | Medium | Medium | 4/5 |
The Ngorongoro Crater offers excellent year-round game viewing due to its enclosed ecosystem. June-October has the driest weather and clearest skies. January-March offers lush green scenery with flamingos on the crater lake.