Choosing the right time to visit is key to enjoying your first safari. Tanzania offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, but certain months are especially suitable for first-time visitors.

June – October | Dry Season (Best Overall Choice)

This is the most recommended time for a first safari.

Why it’s ideal:

• Wildlife gathers around rivers and waterholes, making animals easier to spot

• Short grass and thinner vegetation improve visibility

• Comfortable daytime temperatures

• Very little rainfall

• Excellent conditions in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara

Best months: July to September
(Prime wildlife viewing and Great Migration river crossings)

Things to note:
This is peak season, so advance booking is recommended and prices are slightly higher.

January – March | Green Season (Best Value and Photography)

A great alternative for travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value.

Why choose this period:

• Lush green landscapes and dramatic skies

• Calving season in the southern Serengeti

• Excellent birdlife

• Fewer visitors and lower lodge rates

• Still very good wildlife viewing

Best for photography enthusiasts and travelers who prefer quieter safaris.

April – May | Long Rains (Not Ideal for First-Time Safaris)

• Heavy rainfall can affect road conditions

• Some camps and lodges may close temporarily

• Wildlife is harder to spot due to dense vegetation

This period is generally not recommended for a first safari.

November – December | Short Rains (Good Shoulder Season)

• Short, occasional showers, usually in the afternoons

• Fewer crowds than the peak season

• Green scenery with good wildlife sightings

• Better value compared to June–October

Final Recommendation for First-Time Safari Travelers

For the smoothest and most rewarding experience:

• Best time: June to October

• Best alternative: January to March

• Ideal parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire

• Safari style: Private guided safari

Tanzania offers unforgettable wildlife experiences throughout the year, but choosing the right season will make your first safari truly exceptional.