What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go On A Photo Safari in Tanzania
The best time of year to go on a safari in Tanzania depends on what you want to see and your preferences for weather. Tanzania offers great safari experiences year-round, but there are some seasonal variations to consider:
Dry Season (June to October): This is generally considered the best time for safaris in Tanzania. The weather is dry and cooler, and wildlife tends to concentrate around water sources, making animals easier to spot. July to September is particularly popular as it coincides with the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti.
Great Wildebeest Migration: If witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration is a priority, plan your safari between June and August when the herds are typically in the Western Corridor of the Serengeti, or between September and October when they move to the Northern Serengeti and cross into Kenya's Maasai Mara.
Shoulder Seasons (November to March; June): These months mark transitional periods between the wet and dry seasons. November to December is when short rains occur, but safaris are still possible, and the landscape is lush and green. January to March is the calving season in the southern Serengeti, a great time to see baby animals. June is also a good time due to the early dry season and fewer tourists compared to peak months.
Wet Season (April to May): This is the low season for safaris due to the long rains. Some lodges and camps may be closed, and driving on unpaved roads can be challenging. However, this is a good time for birdwatching as migratory birds are present, and the scenery is lush and beautiful.
In summary, the best time for a safari in Tanzania is typically during the dry season from June to October, with July to September being peak months. However, the shoulder seasons and even parts of the wet season can offer unique experiences depending on your interests, such as birdwatching, the calving season, or fewer crowds. It's essential to research specific parks and regions within Tanzania based on your priorities to make the most of your safari experience.
Our preferences for our safaris are based on the best wildlife events. We have chosen three different times of the year to go.
The calving season is in February. This is the time of year when the Wildebeest migration is in southern Tanzania. There are thousands of newborns each day. This attracts the predators.
The Mara crossing in September. This is the time of year when the fabled Mara River crossing occurs.
The beginning of the dry season in June. It is a time of year when the Serengeti is alive with wildlife.
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