When to Go on Safari

There is no single “best” time — it depends on what you want to see. Here is how Tanzania and Kenya’s seasons line up with wildlife, weather and crowds so you can pick the right window.

The seasons

The Great Migration calendar

The herds move year-round; roughly:

Best time by interest

• First safari / Big Five: June–October.
• Migration river crossings: July–October (northern Serengeti / Mara).
• Calving & predators: January–March (southern Serengeti).
• Kilimanjaro: January–March and June–October.
• Zanzibar beach: June–October and December–February.
• Best value / fewest crowds: November and April–May.

Frequently Asked Questions