Tanzania Safaris & Vacations

June through October is Tanzania’s dry season and the best time to visit for safari. The dry season months arrive in June and last until mid-October, requiring animals to search for water and food, often congregating around resources. Rainfall rarely affects visibility during these months, and the lack of vegetation gives you a better view from which to see the wildlife, especially when visiting Tanzania for the Great Migration.

The dry season months in Tanzania coincide with the Southern Hemisphere’s winter, with lows dropping to an average of 70°F during the day and dropping to an average of 48°F at night. Most days have clear skies, sunshine, and excellent conditions for game drives.

Outside of the dry season, January to February have their own benefits. While a bit rainy at the beginning of the year, the wilderness blooms with greenery, migratory birds populate the landscapes, and the plentiful food means the birthing season for most wildlife.

Our best time to visit Tanzania for safari can help you find the right month for your visit.

We recommend spending a minimum of seven days on safari, though 12 days would allow you to explore a broader range of wildlife, landscapes, and culture throughout Tanzania.

One-week Tanzania safaris are great for exploring the Northern Circuit, which contains the most famous safari parks in the country, such as the Serengeti. With more time in Tanzania, you can explore the lesser-visited southern parks or enjoy time on the beaches of Zanzibar.

Ultimately, the length of your safari is dictated by your schedule and what you wish to see and do during your trip.

With its majestic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Tanzania is a top destination for safari-goers and adventurous travelers exploring stunning national parks.

From the Serengeti to Ruaha National Park, here are some of Tanzania's best places to visit:

• Serengeti National Park: As one of the best-known safari destinations in the world, the Serengeti is an exceptional place to view wildlife, especially during the Great Wildebeest Migration, which exemplifies the marvels of safari experiences.
• Lake Manyara National Park: With safaris by vehicle, canoe, or mountain bike, Lake Manyara National Park immerses you in views of an impressive number of flamingos, colorful birdlife, the world’s highest concentration of baboons, and tree-climbing lions.
• Ruaha National Park: Treasured by safari enthusiasts and overlooked by safari novices, Ruaha offers the wonders of safari without the crowds, with an abundance of lions and cheetahs seen with unique safari experiences.

The Serengeti is in northwest Tanzania, adjacent to the Kenya border. It is one of the oldest ecosystems on the planet, consisting of over 11,580 square miles of undulating plain. The best way to experience the Serengeti is with a guided safari. Your ranger and driver are trained in identifying, tracking, and spotting wildlife.

From game drives in search of the Big Five to witnessing the Great Migration, here are some of the best safari experiences in Tanzania:

• Witness the captivating scene of millions of wildebeest traveling between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara National Park in Kenya
• Take a walking safari on a chimpanzee trek through the forests in search of the elusive troops found around Gombe National Park and Mahale Mountain
• View the abundance of wildlife inside the Ngorongoro Crater to find the majestic harmony of wilderness in a small area
• Enjoy the diverse array of accommodation styles as you travel through safari destinations, finding luxury campsites, mobile safari areas, and traditional lodges
• Spend time on the quiet lakeshores and riverbanks of national parks in the south of Tanzania to enjoy the game drives and walking safaris away from the crowds

Few things compare to viewing a pride of lions in the wild or witnessing the power of a parade of elephants marching in the distance.From migratory birds to pools of hippos, here are some of the animals in Tanzania to see on safari:

• Lion
• Elephant
• Giraffe
• Leopard
• Wildebeest
• Cheetah
• Topi
• Hyena
• Caracal
• Red-Billed Hornbill

We suggest travelers come prepared for a safari tour in Tanzania by packing intentionally and with additional items beyond your typical packing list. Here are a few items to consider packing for your African adventure:

• Neutral, light-colored clothing
• Lightweight, waterproof rain jacket
• Long pants for bush walks
• Hiking boots or walking shoes
• Daypack
• Camera with a zoom lens and extra memory cards
• Binoculars
• Insect repellent
• UV protection, including but not limited to sunscreen, hats, lip balm, and sunglasses

A safari in Tanzania is safe.

Tanzania has an incredible reputation as a safari destination with wildlife posing little to no threat to your safety. Follow the instructions and guidance of your game rangers and the rules of the parks and reserves to keep yourself safe.

While some parks at higher elevations in Tanzania offer malaria-free safari experiences, we advise consulting your doctor to discuss safety precautions in areas with malaria. Petty crimes are possible but unlikely during a Tanzania safari and rare in Tanzania’s top national parks and game reserves.

The best Tanzania safari itinerary will showcase the beauty of the wilderness while adhering to your interests and travel preferences. From the Serengeti to Zanzibar, Mount Kilimanjaro to Maasai villages, we share a number of our most popular Tanzania itineraries you can customize to the experience you want:

• Whether you are interested in elephants or stunning views, the Great Migration, or grazing giraffes, 8-Day Tanzania: Big Five and Traditional Culture blends natural wonder and cultural heritage across Tanzania’s stunning landscapes.
• From walking safaris with an armed ranger to sweeping panoramas of lakes filled with pink flamingos, Tanzania Classic Weeklong: Iconic National Parks shines a light on the spectacle of wildlife across the country’s most famous protected landscapes and wildlife.

Combine discovery, relaxation, and comfort on our tour of Safari and Seascape: 9-Day Tanzania and Zanzibar, where you can search for signs of nocturnal big cats, snorkel the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, and picnic alongside a stunning waterfall.

Find more information in our frequently asked questions about planning a safari in Tanzania and inspiration in our Tanzania safari guide.