Planning a trip to Tanzania is exciting, but one of the most common questions travelers ask is: When is the best time to visit Tanzania? The truth is, Tanzania is a year-round destination, offering unique safari and travel experiences in every season. With its diverse landscapes, from the endless plains of the Serengeti to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, the wildlife-rich Tarangire National Park, the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, and the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, there is always a reason to explore.

At Altaika Africa Safaris, we help you choose the perfect time to travel based on what you want to see and do.

Dry Season: June to October

• Highlights: This is the most popular time to visit Tanzania. The weather is dry, skies are clear, and wildlife viewing is at its best. Animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making game drives truly rewarding.

• Experiences:

  • Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti (July – October).

  • Explore Ngorongoro Crater, where spotting the Big Five is almost guaranteed.

  • Perfect conditions for Mount Kilimanjaro trekking.

  • Enjoy cool evenings and sunny days.

Green Season: November to March

• Highlights: Known as the “shoulder season,” this period includes the short rains (Nov – Dec) and a warm, lush period (Jan – Mar). The landscapes are beautifully green, and there are fewer tourists.

• Experiences:

  • Calving season in the Southern Serengeti (January – March) – thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators like lions and cheetahs.

  • Incredible birdwatching with migratory species arriving.

  • A quieter, more intimate safari experience.

  • Great time to combine safaris with a Zanzibar beach holiday.

Long Rains: April to May

• Highlights: This is Tanzania’s wettest season, with heavy rainfall in many regions. Some lodges and camps close during this time, but others remain open and offer excellent discounts.

• Experiences:

  • Fewer tourists mean exclusive wildlife encounters.

  • Lush, green landscapes perfect for photography.

  • Budget-friendly safaris with reduced rates.

 Zanzibar – Best Time for the Beach

• The best months for Zanzibar beach holidays are June to October (dry and sunny) and December to February (hot and vibrant).

• If you want peace and fewer crowds, avoid the peak festive season in late December.

Final Thoughts

So, when should you visit Tanzania? It depends on what you want to experience. For the Great Migration and Big Five safaris, the dry season (June – October) is unbeatable. For stunning landscapes, calving season, and fewer crowds, the green season (Jan – Mar) is perfect. If you’re seeking affordability and solitude, the long rains (Apr – May) might surprise you.

At Altaika Africa Safaris, we tailor your safari to the season, ensuring that every adventure is perfectly timed for unforgettable memories.