At I Artist Adventure, we specialize in crafting unforgettable safari experiences across Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes. From the vast Serengeti to the lush Ngorongoro Crater, we provide expert guidance to ensure every safari is perfectly timed for an unparalleled wildlife experience. One of the most common questions we receive is: "When is the best time for a safari in Tanzania?" The answer depends on what you want to see and experience. Timing is everything when it comes to wildlife viewing. In this guide, we break down the benefits of Tanzania’s high and low safari seasons to help you decide the best time for your adventure with I Artist Adventure.

Quick Overview

High or Peak Season Low or Green Season
About June to October About November to April
Higher rates Lower rates
Need to book in advance Easier availability
Cool and dry weather Hot and rainy weather
Easiest to spot wildlife Wildlife disperses due to abundant water
Fewer baby animals and migrant birds Lots of baby animals and migratory birds
National parks are busiest Parks are less crowded

High Season (June to October)

When to Visit

Tanzania’s winter runs from June to October, bringing cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall. This is the dry season when wildlife is most concentrated around water sources, making it the best time for game viewing.

Weather & Climate

Mornings and evenings can be quite chilly, especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, while afternoons are comfortably warm. There is almost no rain, and the skies are clear, providing excellent conditions for photography.

What to Pack

Dress in layers! Early morning and evening game drives can be cold, so pack a fleece jacket, long trousers, a scarf, and closed shoes. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential for protection from the intense African sun.

Wildlife Viewing

This is the best time to see big cats and large herbivores, as animals congregate around shrinking water sources. The sparse vegetation makes it easier to spot predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs as they stalk their prey. The Great Wildebeest Migration is a highlight during this season, especially from July to September when dramatic river crossings occur in the Serengeti.

What You Might Miss

  • Fewer baby animals, as most births happen during the rainy season.
  • Migratory birds are absent, as they move to Europe and North Africa.
  • Some reptiles and amphibians are less active due to the dry conditions.

Advantages of High Season

  • Easier wildlife spotting with fewer hiding places for animals.
  • Cooler temperatures make for comfortable game drives and hiking.
  • Fewer insects, including mosquitoes, reducing the risk of malaria.
  • Best time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, as the dry conditions make the ascent safer and more manageable.

Disadvantages of High Season

  • Higher prices for accommodations and park fees.
  • More tourists in popular parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
  • Some areas, such as Tarangire, may become dusty.

Low Season (November to April)

When to Visit

Tanzania’s summer and rainy season runs from November to April. Though many assume rain disrupts safaris, showers are typically brief and occur in the late afternoon or evening, leaving plenty of time for game drives.

Weather & Climate

Expect warm to hot temperatures with occasional thunderstorms. The landscape transforms into lush greenery, making this the Green Season—a favorite for photographers.

What to Pack

Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors is best for warm days. Bring a rain jacket and waterproof bag for your camera. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent are essential.

Wildlife Viewing

  • Baby boom! Many animals, including wildebeest, zebra, and antelope, give birth, attracting predators like lions and hyenas.
  • Birdwatcher’s paradise. Migratory birds from Europe and Asia flock to Tanzania, making this the best season for birding.
  • Lush vegetation makes wildlife more challenging to spot, but experienced guides, like those at I Artist Adventure, excel at tracking elusive animals.

What You Might Miss

  • Some animals scatter due to the abundance of water.
  • More challenging conditions in parks with thick vegetation, such as Selous and Ruaha.
  • Some remote lodges close due to impassable roads in heavy rainfall.

Advantages of Low Season

  • Lower prices on accommodation and park fees.
  • Fewer tourists, offering a more private safari experience.
  • Rich, green landscapes perfect for stunning photography.
  • Incredible birdwatching opportunities.
  • The calving season in the Serengeti (January to March) is an unforgettable spectacle.

Disadvantages of Low Season

  • Higher humidity and more mosquitoes—malaria precautions are essential.
  • Some areas may become inaccessible due to muddy roads.
  • Wildlife is more dispersed, requiring more tracking effort.

So, When is the Best Time for a Safari with I Artist Adventure?

The best time depends on what you want from your safari:
  • For classic game viewing and predator action, visit during the high season (June–October).
  • For a more intimate experience with lower costs, lush scenery, and baby animals, visit during the low season (November–April).
No matter when you visit, I Artist Adventure ensures an unforgettable safari experience tailored to your preferences. Whether you want to witness the Great Migration, enjoy a birdwatching expedition, or explore the Serengeti under golden sunsets, we provide expert-guided tours with a deep passion for Tanzania’s wildlife and culture. Ready to plan your dream safari? Contact I Artist Adventure today and let’s make it happen!