Tanzania Has Two Distinct Seasons — Both Are Excellent
Tanzania's climate is simpler than most people expect. The dry season (June to October) is peak wildlife viewing — animals concentrate around water, roads are at their best, skies are clear. The green season (November to May) transforms the landscape into something lush and photogenic, with dramatically lower prices and fewer vehicles. Both seasons offer extraordinary wildlife experiences. This guide covers what to expect in every month.
Month by Month
Tanzania Safari Weather — 12 Month Calendar
| Month | Season | Temp | Rain | Wildlife | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Peak (Dry) | 16–30°C | Low | Calving season in southern Serengeti — predator action, elephants active, flamingos at Lake Manyara | Moderate |
| February | Peak (Dry) | 16–31°C | Very Low | Calving continues — best month for seeing newborn wildebeest and predator action. Flamingos still at Lake Manyara. | Moderate-High |
| March | Transition | 17–30°C | Increasing | Long rains begin late in month — wildlife still excellent. Elephants active. Birds migrating. | Low |
| April | Green (Wet) | 18–28°C | High | Landscape is stunning green. Birdlife exceptional. Roads can be difficult. Calving winding down. | Very Low |
| May | Green (Wet) | 17–27°C | High | Peak green season. Flowers blooming. Bird migrations. Roads challenging but passable with 4WD. | Very Low |
| June | Peak (Dry) | 15–27°C | Low | Beginning of the dry season — animals start moving north. Excellent overall wildlife viewing. | Moderate |
| July | Peak (Dry) | 14–26°C | Very Low | Great Migration river crossings begin in northern Serengeti. Dry season means animals concentrated. Peak wildlife viewing. | High |
| August | Peak (Dry) | 13–26°C | Very Low | Peak of Great Migration crossings. Large herds in northern Serengeti and Lamai Wedge. Best big cat viewing. | Very High |
| September | Peak (Dry) | 14–27°C | Very Low | Crossings continue early in month. Wildebeest starting to return south through the eastern corridor. | High |
| October | Peak (Dry) | 16–29°C | Low | Short rains may begin late in month — landscape starts to green. Wildebeest in eastern Serengeti and Ndutu area. | Moderate |
| November | Shoulder (Wet) | 17–29°C | Moderate | Short rains bring green landscapes. Wildebeest in eastern and southern Serengeti. Excellent birdwatching. | Low |
| December | Peak (Wet) | 17–29°C | Moderate | Green season in full effect. Wildlife excellent despite rain. Festive season — many travellers. | High (festive) |
Choosing Your Season
Dry Season vs Green Season — What to Expect
Dry Season: June – October
- ✓Wildlife concentrated around permanent water sources — easier to find
- ✓Clear skies and excellent visibility for photography
- ✓Roads are at their best — all routes accessible
- ✓Peak pricing and more vehicles at major sightings
- ✓Great Migration at its most dramatic (July–October)
- ✓Comfortable temperatures for game drives (15–27°C)
- ✓Ngorongoro Crater roads are excellent
Green Season: November – May
- ✓Lush green landscapes — dramatically different from the dry season
- ✓25-50% lower prices at most camps
- ✓Far fewer vehicles — sometimes the only car at a sighting
- ✓Extraordinary birdwatching — 500+ resident and migratory species
- ✓Wildebeest calving in southern Serengeti (January–March)
- ✓Dramatic afternoon storms and beautiful photography light
- ✓Some roads become difficult after heavy rain (4WD essential)
Park-Specific Notes
How Weather Affects Each Major Park
Serengeti
The dry season concentrates wildlife in the north and around water. In the green season, wildlife spreads across the plains. The Western Corridor and southern Ndutu are accessible year-round.
Ngorongoro Crater
The most reliable park in Tanzania regardless of season. The Crater floor has water year-round, so wildlife remains concentrated. Roads can be muddy but are rarely impassable in the green season.
Tarangire
Elephant herds concentrate at the Tarangire River in the dry season. In the green season, the park is beautiful but wildlife is more dispersed. Tarangire is generally accessible year-round.
Lake Manyara
Flamingos are most concentrated during the dry season. In the wet season, many birds disperse. The park is compact enough to do in half a day regardless of season.
Common Weather Questions
Safari Weather FAQ
What is the best month for a Tanzania safari?
Does it rain every day during Tanzania's green season?
What should I pack for Tanzania safari weather?
Is the Serengeti different in rainy season vs dry season?
What is the temperature at Ngorongoro Crater rim vs floor?
Can I do a Tanzania safari in April or May — is the weather too bad?
Ready to Choose Your Season?
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