When Is the Best Time to Go on A Safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti?

Setting off for a safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti is a thrilling prospect for many. To fully enjoy this experience, it’s key to figure out the Best Time to Visit Serengeti and pick the right Serengeti Safari Tours.

The Serengeti, known for its rich array of animals and stunning views, offers a unique adventure. However, the timing of your Tanzania Safari Tours plays a big role in shaping your experience and what you’ll get to see.

The Magic of Serengeti- A Month-by-Month Guide

Every month introduces a unique aspect of this majestic landscape, making any time a potential Best Month to Visit Serengeti.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re drawn to the dramatic spectacle of the Great Migration or the serene beauty of the quieter months, the Serengeti’s rhythm is ever-changing, yet always enchanting.

Let’s get into a month-by-month exploration to help you pinpoint your ideal time to witness the Serengeti’s magic.

January to March is the Green Season

• Emerald Plains – January’s lush, green landscapes offer stunning views and excellent game viewing, with the Ndutu Plains being exceptionally popular.
• Calving Season– February is the Best Time to Visit Serengeti to witness the wildebeest calving, offering spectacular wildlife sightings.
• Tranquil March– The end of the green season and lower safari crowds make March a unique time for serene explorations at attractive rates.

April to June is The Transitional Months

• April Adventures– Despite being off-peak, April’s humidity and rain bring a unique, off-the-beaten-track Serengeti experience.
• May Migrations – Heavy rainfall yet quieter safari scenes; central and western Serengeti become hotspots for following the Great Migration Serengeti.
• June’s Dry Start– The beginning of the dry season, June is ideal for spotting the northward-moving Great Migration under drier conditions.

July to September is The Peak Season

• Spectacular Sightings – July to September is prime time for observing the Great Migration’s dramatic river crossings.
• August Action – This Peak Tanzania Safari Season brings the best wildlife encounters, especially the northern Serengeti’s river crossings.
• September Solitude– Southern Serengeti quietens down, offering a more secluded experience.

October to December is The Season of Transformation

• October’s Dry End– The parched plains await the rains, with spectacular game viewing still on offer.
• November Rains – The onset of short rains brings fresh grazing lands, lower rates, and fewer tourists.
• December Dynamics – A transition to lush landscapes, with the Great Migration heading to the southern plains.

Visiting Serengeti Beyond the Migration

There is more to Serengeti beyond the great migration. That means you can set on Serengeti Safari Tours anytime to witness Africa’s most iconic wildlife.  

Imagine spotting lions with their impressive golden manes, leopards hiding in the brush, and cheetahs sprinting across the plains at any time of the year.

Also, if you prefer a more private experience away from the crowds, think about visiting during the quieter seasons or exploring less-visited areas of the park.

Special Note on How to Avoid Crowds on Serengeti Safaris

Traveling during the low seasons (mid-March to mid-May, early November to mid-December) promises fewer crowds and lower rates.

Venturing beyond popular areas, like the Western Corridor or Mara Serengeti area, offers a more secluded safari experience.

Serengeti’s Weather Patterns

The Tanzania Safari Season is categorized primarily into Dry season and Wet Season. Below are all the details related to the two seasons.

Dry Season (June to October)

• What to Expect -This is a great time to see wildlife, as animals gather near water sources.
• Pros– You’ll enjoy clear skies, easier times spotting animals and less worry about malaria.
• Cons– Be prepared for cooler nights and potentially more people in the parks.

Wet Season (November to May)

• What to Expect– The landscape becomes beautifully green, attracting fewer tourists and offering more affordable rates.
• Pros– Witness the calving season, enjoy excellent birdwatching, and experience short, refreshing afternoon rains.
• Cons– Be aware that the peak of the wet season can bring more rain, and some areas might still attract crowds.

Finally, which is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania’s Serengeti?

We can summarise the ideal time to visit Tanzania’s Serengeti through the following points.

• Dry Season Splendour – For optimal wildlife viewing and the chance to witness the Great Migration, late June to October is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania Serengeti.
• Wet Season Wonders– Those seeking lush landscapes, calving season spectacles, and a peaceful safari experience should consider November to May as the Best Time to Visit Serengeti.

Your Serengeti Safari Awaits

To conclude our write-up, all we can say is Best Time to Visit Serengeti depends on what you seek from your safari. All our Serengeti Safari Tours cater to various preferences, whether you are after the spectacle of the Great Migration or the tranquillity of the green season.

Interested in exploring the wonders of the Serengeti with our Tanzania Safari Packages? Chat with our experts at African Scenic Safaris today and let us tailor the perfect safari experience for you!