Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best month depends on what you want to see. This guide shows the best time for the Great Migration, calving season, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar, so you can choose your dates with confidence.
The dry season from late June to October is the classic safari window: animals gather around water, the grass is short and roads are good. It is also the busiest and most expensive time. December to March is excellent for the calving season in the southern Serengeti, and the green season (March to May, and November) offers the lowest prices and the fewest visitors.
| Month | Conditions | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| January | Hot, mostly dry | Calving in Ndutu, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar |
| February | Hot and dry, peak calving | Calving season, predator action, Kilimanjaro |
| March | Rains start building | Green season value, Ndutu early in the month |
| April | Long rains | Lowest prices, lush scenery, few visitors |
| May | Long rains ending | Value safaris, Western Corridor from late May |
| June | Dry begins, cooler | Grumeti crossings, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar |
| July | Dry and cool | Great Migration in the north, all parks |
| August | Dry, peak season | Mara River crossings, Tarangire elephants |
| September | Dry | Mara River crossings, quieter than August |
| October | Dry, warming | Northern Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar |
| November | Short rains begin | Value, birdlife, herds heading south |
| December | Short rains, warm | Calving begins, Christmas safaris, Zanzibar |
Private departures with Maasai guides. Prices shown are current starting prices and each itinerary can be tailored.
For most travellers the dry season from late June to October is best for wildlife viewing, with the Great Migration river crossings from July to October. If you prefer fewer vehicles and want to see newborn animals, January and February are outstanding.
April and May during the long rains, and November, have the lowest accommodation rates. Roads can be slower and some camps close, but the landscape is green and the parks are quiet.
Yes. The herds are always somewhere in the Serengeti ecosystem, but their location changes through the year. See our month-by-month Great Migration guide for where they are in each month.
January to March and June to October are the driest periods and the most popular. We help you choose the best route and dates for your fitness and schedule.
Many travellers now book 9 to 14 months in advance, especially for July to October, February and Christmas. Last-minute availability can still exist, so contact us for current options.