Blog Post
When to Safely Venture: Best Time for Safari in Tanzania
Embarking on an adventure across the distinctive landscape of Tanzania on a safari presents travellers with the unforgettable opportunity to witness the sprawling wildlife in their natural habitat. Deciding the ideal time for such an expedition, however, involves more than simply picking a date. A well-informed choice should factor in the diverse Tanzanian Safari seasons, the timing of the world-famous wildebeest migration, and the visitors’ individual wildlife spotting preferences. This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on the various factors one would need to consider for an unparalleled Tanzanian safari experience, presenting an in-depth discussion on safari seasons, a detailed monthly breakdown of what each offers, as well as insightful tactical considerations in planning your trip.
Understanding the Tanzanian Safari Seasons
Understanding the Tanzanian Safari Seasons
Tanzania boasts a wide range of wildlife activity year-round, but the best time for a safari largely depends on the specific wildlife events you wish to witness. The prime seasons for a safari in Tanzania mainly revolve around the dry and wet seasons, each drawing different types of wildlife and offering unique experiences.
Wet vs. Dry Season
The dry season, from late June to October, is considered the best time for game viewing. This is when the vegetation is less dense and animals gather around rivers and watering holes, making them easier to spot. It’s also the time when you can witness one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth: the wildebeest migration.
During the wet season, from November to May, the parks become greener and more scenic, and it’s the best time for bird watching. This is also the season when many animals give birth to their young, giving you the chance to witness very unique moments.
Wildebeest Migration
The Great Wildebeest Migration is the largest overland migration in the world, and it’s truly a sight to behold. The bulk of the migration takes place from July to October. During this time, over a million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move in a clockwise direction from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya in search of fresh grass and water.
Bird Watching Seasons
For bird watchers, the best time to visit Tanzania is during the wet season, from November to April. The country is home to more than 1000 bird species, and many migratory birds from Europe and Asia come to Tanzania during these months.
Fewer Crowds In Parks
If you value a less crowded safari experience, the long rainy season, from March to May, is the best time to visit. This period sees fewer tourists, allowing for more privacy. However, while you might still see a great variety of wildlife, some regions and roads may be inaccessible due to heavy rains.
Concluding Thoughts
The optimal time for a safari in Tanzania greatly depends on individual preferences. Whether desiring to partake in the excitement of the wildebeest migration, partake in bird watching, or savor the tranquility of the parks with fewer visitors, Tanzania is a year-round destination offering something for everyone. However, it’s essential to note the climate can vary greatly between different regions of Tanzania. As such, it’s fundamental to get accustomed to the projected weather conditions of your chosen park or region.
Factors To Consider When Planning for a Tanzanian Safari
Deciphering the Tourist High and Low Seasons in Tanzania
The busiest tourist seasons in Tanzania generally align with the dry seasons, which take place from late June to October and from late December to March. At these times, favorable weather conditions result in enhanced wildlife visibility, drawing in a high volume of tourists. The Serengeti National Park, in particular, is a hot spot to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration during these dry times. On the other hand, visitor numbers drop during the rainy seasons, specifically from April to early June (the extended rains) and in November and December (the brief rains). Despite reduced tourism, these periods offer a unique opportunity to appreciate the verdantly lush and vibrant landscape.
Appreciating the Weather Patterns in Tanzania
The weather patterns in Tanzania are a key factor in determining the best time for a safari. The dry seasons with their little to no rainfall provide optimal wildlife viewing conditions due to scant foliage and the lack of water forcing animals to congregate around the remaining water sources. The visibility is excellent during this time and the risk of malaria is lower. On the other hand, the wet seasons may provide a less idyllic experience for some, as torrential rains can make some roads impassable and the increased vegetation can make wildlife viewing more challenging. However, birdwatchers often prefer the rainy seasons as migratory birds are abundant.
Availability of Animals in National Parks
The various national parks in Tanzania offer different experiences throughout the year, directly tied to the movement and behavior of the animals. For instance, the calving season of the wildebeest in the Serengeti occurs from late January to February, attracting a high number of tourists. The Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant populations, is most rewarding during the dry season, when large herds of elephants can be seen. Ngorongoro Crater offers consistent year-round wildlife viewing, while Selous Game Reserve is mostly closed during the heavy rains of March and April. Knowing the animal behavior in each park will help determine the best time for a visit.
Variation in Safari Costs Throughout the Year
The cost of a safari in Tanzania can significantly vary depending on the time of year. The high season, correlating with dry months and animal migration events, sees a surge in safari prices due to the high demand. The off-peak seasons are generally more affordable as lodges and safari operators often offer attractive discounts during these times. However, it’s worth noting the costs don’t fluctuate as significantly as the visitor numbers do, so planning for cost-effectiveness should include other factors such as flight prices and personal convenience.
Choosing the best time to embark on a safari in Tanzania can vary greatly depending on individual goals, your budget, and your available dates. Each season throughout the year offers its own unique and special encounters in this wildlife haven in East Africa.
Detailed Breakdown of Each Safari Month in Tanzania
January – Commencing the Year in the Wilderness
Traditionally, January falls within the short dry spell in Tanzania, which sees fewer tourists, ensuring a tranquil safari experience. During this period, there’s an abundance of wildlife to be seen congregating around the watering holes, making it a perfect timing.
February – Calving Season
In February, thousands of wildebeest and zebra give birth in the Southern Serengeti. This attracts numerous predators, offering the chance to witness high action predator-prey interactions. This is also a great month for bird watching, as migratory birds from Europe and Northern Africa are present in the region.
March – End of Calving Season
As the rainy season approaches in March, the landscape turns green and lush. While game viewing can be slightly more challenging due to the high grasses, this is offset by the opportunity to see newborn animals and active predators.
April – The Rainy Season
Travel is less ideal in April due to the heavy rains. Nevertheless, it’s a quiet month for safaris, reducing the number of tourist vehicles you’ll encounter. For those after a quieter safari experience, this can be a good time to visit.
May – The Green Season
Despite being a rain-filled month, May still offers a great wildlife spotting experience, including birdwatching. The landscapes are rich and green, enhancing the scenic beauty for photography.
June – Start of The Great Migration
June indicates the beginning of the dry season. Wildebeest and zebra herds start their annual migration toward Maasai Mara in Kenya. It’s also a great time for chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains National Park.
July – Peak of The Great Migration
July is a peak month when herds trek across the Grumeti and Mara River. This period offers the best opportunity to witness dramatic river crossings and potential predator-prey action.
August – Wildebeest in The North
During August, the migration continues in the Northern Serengeti. This is a great time to see large herds of wildebeest and zebra, as well as the predators that follow them.
September – Predator’s Paradise
September experiences pleasant weather with less rain, making it an excellent time for safaris. Predators are more active and visible due to the ongoing migration.
October – Preparing for Short Rains
October sees the restart of the short rainy season. The animals begin to migrate back to the Serengeti, offering another chance to witness the mesmerizing movement of the herds.
November – Birdwatchers’ Paradise
Due to the short rains, November brings an influx of birds making it an ideal month for bird watching. The late part of November also marks the beginning of the calving season in the south.
December – Filled with Newborns
December is a special time in the wildlife calendar as more young wildebeest and other animals are born. It’s an excellent time to enjoy predator sightings, as they flock to prey on the vulnerable newborns.
Choosing the best time to plan a safari in Tanzania essentially boils down to personal preference, however, an understanding of the different variables involved can significantly enhance your experience. Every season and month in the Tanzanian calendar offers a uniquely different perspective on the thrills of engaging with wildlife. Whether your adventure includes marveling at the grandeur of the wildebeest migration, experiencing the captivating world of bird watching or seeking an encounter with the Big Five, Tanzania always has something unique to offer. Ultimately, the magic of Tanzanian safari is not confined to a specific slot on the calendar, but rather, it unfurls itself throughout the year, awaiting discovery by the thrill-seeking and nature-loving travellers.
