When is the Best Time to Go for Safari in Tanzania?

Tanzania is one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife destinations, with its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique cultural heritage. Tanzania’s national parks and game reserves offer a wide range of safari experiences throughout the year, each with its own unique highlights and attractions. In this article, we will explore the best time to go for a safari in Tanzania, what you can expect to see in each season, and the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

When is the Best Time to Go for Safari in Tanzania?

Tanzania has two main safari seasons – the dry season and the wet season. The dry season typically runs from June to October, while the wet season runs from November to May. The best time to go on a safari in Tanzania depends on what you want to see and experience.

Dry Season (June – October)

The dry season is generally considered the best time to go on a safari in Tanzania. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the wildlife is concentrated around water sources, making it easier to spot them. The dry season is also the time of the wildebeest migration, which is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet.

Wildebeest Migration

The wildebeest migration is an annual event that takes place between the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. The migration involves over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, and it is one of the largest wildlife spectacles in the world.

The migration typically starts in June when the wildebeest leave the southern Serengeti plains and head towards the western corridor. In July and August, the wildebeest cross the Grumeti River, and in September and October, they cross the Mara River to reach the Maasai Mara in Kenya. The Mara River crossing is one of the most dramatic events of the migration, as the wildebeest have to cross the crocodile-infested river while avoiding predators like lions and hyenas.

Calving Season

The dry season is also the calving season for wildebeest, which takes place between January and February. During this time, over 500,000 wildebeest give birth to their young in a two to three week period, providing an incredible spectacle of new life.

Wild Dog Sighting in Selous

Another highlight of the dry season is the opportunity to see wild dogs in Selous Game Reserve. Wild dogs are one of the most endangered species in Africa, and Selous is one of the best places in Tanzania to see them. The dry season is the best time to see wild dogs, as they are more active during this time and can often be seen hunting in packs.

Ruaha and Mikumi National Parks

Ruaha National Park and Mikumi National Park are two of Tanzania’s most popular safari destinations, and each has its own unique attractions.

Ruaha National Park is known for its large populations of elephants and buffalo, as well as its predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The best time to visit Ruaha is during the dry season, when the wildlife congregates around the park’s rivers and waterholes.

Mikumi National Park is known for its open grasslands and large herds of giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. The park is also home to predators like lions and leopards. The best time to visit Mikumi is during the dry season, when the wildlife is easier to spot.

Wet Season (November – May)

The wet season in Tanzania runs from November to May and is characterized by heavy rainfall and lush green landscapes. The wet season is considered the low season for safaris, as some roads may become impassable, and the wildlife is harder to spot. However, the wet season also has its own unique attractions.

Bird Watching

The wet season is an excellent time for bird watching in Tanzania, as many migratory birds come to Tanzania during this time. The best places for bird watching in Tanzania are Lake Manyara National Park, Arusha National Park, and the Serengeti National Park.

Baby Animals

The wet season is also the time when many animals give birth to their young, providing an incredible spectacle of new life. The best places to see baby animals in Tanzania are the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

When is the Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro?

Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain and a popular destination for climbers from around the world. The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, from June to October and from December to February. During these months, the weather is dry and clear, providing excellent visibility and comfortable temperatures for climbing.

Lodge and Camp Pricing per Season

The pricing for lodges and camps in Tanzania varies depending on the season. During the high season, which runs from June to October, prices for lodges and camps can be up to twice as much as during the low season, which runs from November to May. However, some lodges and camps offer discounts during the low season, making it a more affordable time to visit Tanzania.

In general, lodges and camps in Tanzania offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly campsites to luxurious lodges. The cost of accommodations will depend on the level of comfort and amenities you require.

Conclusion

Tanzania is a spectacular destination for safari enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, with its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in witnessing the wildebeest migration, spotting wild dogs in Selous, or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania has something to offer for everyone.

The best time to go on a safari in Tanzania depends on what you want to see and experience. The dry season, from June to October, is generally considered the best time to go on a safari, as the weather is dry and sunny, and the wildlife is concentrated around water sources. The wet season, from November to May, is a great time for bird watching and seeing baby animals, but the heavy rainfall can make some roads impassable.

If you’re planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the best time to do so is during the dry season, from June to October and from December to February. Finally, the cost of lodges and camps in Tanzania varies depending on the season and the level of comfort you require.

Overall, Tanzania is a fantastic destination that offers something for everyone, and with careful planning, you can have an unforgettable safari experience.