Tanzania’s northern parks are some of the best places for wildlife in Africa. The Serengeti follows the Great Migration through the year, and the Ngorongoro Crater is good in every season. This guide shows where the action is in each month.
Serengeti and Ngorongoro by period
| Period | Where the herds are | What it is like |
|---|---|---|
| December to March | Southern grasslands around Lake Ndutu. Calving takes place. | Largely rain-free but humid, with strong heat. |
| Mid to late March to June | Herds on the move and harder to locate. | April and May bring the main rains and the quietest months. |
| June to October | Northern Serengeti, crossing the Mara River and spilling into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. | The dry season. Best game viewing and the busiest months, July and August. |
| Mid-November to mid-December | Herds on the move again toward the south. | Short rains in late November and early December. |
Best time to see the Great Migration in Tanzania
The herds are in the north from about June to October, and in the south around Lake Ndutu from December to March. In between they are on the move. Read our Great Migration calendar for month-by-month detail.
Best time for a Kenya and Tanzania safari
Many guests combine the two. July to October is a strong window for the Maasai Mara and the northern Serengeti, because the herds cross between them.
Best time to avoid crowds
April, May and early November are quieter, though the rains can dampen the mood. September is a good balance of wildlife and space.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit the Serengeti?
June to October is the best overall for game viewing. December to March is best for calving in the south.
When is the Ngorongoro Crater best?
It is good all year and excels from June to November.
When are the rainy seasons in northern Tanzania?
The short rains fall in late November and early December, and the main rains in April and May.
Can I combine the Serengeti with the Maasai Mara?
Yes. We plan Kenya and Tanzania safaris together, and the herds themselves cross between the two.
Tell us your dates
Share your month and who is travelling, and a planner replies, usually the same day, with ideas and a clear quote.
Source: The Africa Specialists, Best Time to Visit Tanzania; Asilia Africa migration guide. Seasons and wildlife vary from year to year. Always check current conditions before you travel.