Lorem ipWhen planning a safari in Tanzania, timing is everything. With its diverse landscapes and rich ecosystems, Tanzania offers incredible wildlife viewing all year round—but certain months bring unique experiences depending on the parks you visit. Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration, hoping to see newborn animals, or looking for the best predator action, here’s your complete guide on the best times to visit Tanzania’s national parks for wildlife watching.

🌿 Serengeti National Park

Best Time: June – October (Dry Season)

The Serengeti is famous for the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the plains in search of greener pastures.

  • June – July: Best for river crossings in the Grumeti and Mara Rivers.
  • October – November: The herds begin their journey back south.
  • January – March: Calving season in Ndutu, with thousands of newborns and plenty of predator activity.

Pro Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the shoulder months of May or November.

🌿 Ngorongoro Crater

Best Time: June – October (Dry Season)

As a self-contained ecosystem, Ngorongoro Crater offers incredible wildlife sightings year-round. But the dry season is ideal, as animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.

What you’ll see:

  • Black rhinos
  • Lions and cheetahs
  • Large herds of buffalo and wildebeest
  • Flamingos on Lake Magadi

🌿 Tarangire National Park

Best Time: June – October (Dry Season)

Tarangire is known for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. During the dry season, wildlife flocks to the Tarangire River, creating one of the most spectacular concentrations of animals in East Africa.

Highlights:

  • Elephants galore
  • Tree-climbing lions
  • Over 500 bird species

🌿 Lake Manyara National Park

Best Time: June – October (Dry Season)

Although Lake Manyara is smaller, it’s packed with wildlife and famous for its tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos.

Top sightings:

  • Hippos
  • Baboons
  • Flamingos (when the lake is full)
  • Leopards

🌿 Ruaha National Park

Best Time: June – October (Dry Season)

For a more remote safari experience, Ruaha is perfect. It’s less crowded and offers impressive predator sightings, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

Bonus: Ruaha has some of the largest lion prides in Africa!

🌿 Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park)

Best Time: June – October (Dry Season)

Selous is perfect for boat safaris and walking tours. During the dry months, the Rufiji River becomes a magnet for wildlife, from crocodiles and hippos to elephants and wild dogs.

🌿 Zanzibar’s Marine Life

While famous for its beaches, Zanzibar also offers incredible snorkeling and diving.
Best Time:

  • June – October: Cooler, dry weather with clear waters.
  • December – March: Warmer with calm seas, ideal for diving.

🔍 Quick Safari Planning Tips:

  • Dry Season (June – October): Best for most parks, fewer mosquitoes, and high wildlife visibility.
  • Green Season (November – May): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and better rates, with calving season happening from January to March.

🐾 So, When Should You Go?

The beauty of Tanzania is that there’s never a bad time to visit. Each season offers something unique, whether it’s dramatic river crossings, adorable newborn wildlife, or lush green scenery filled with migratory birds.