Tanzania through the seasons
The right place.
The right time.
Calving on the southern plains, dry-season wildlife and time beside the Indian Ocean. Discover when Tanzania is right for you.
Your seasonal guide.
See how the parks and islands change throughout the year, then build a journey around what matters most to you.
Seasons at a glance
A seasonal pattern, not a forecast.
Scroll across to compare all months →
Temperature and rainfall are Serengeti monthly averages from Serengeti.com. Conditions vary across the park with altitude and location; these figures are a guide, not a forecast. Migration regions are approximate and shift with rainfall. See the detailed migration guide ↓
Warm, generally dry & clear
On safariThis is the short dry season across much of northern Tanzania. The southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains are particularly rewarding during the main calving period, while Ngorongoro remains reliable year-round. The south and west are greener, hotter and less predictable, with some access affected by rain.
On the beachZanzibar is hot, humid and generally sunny, with occasional showers. Sea conditions vary by coast, but this is broadly one of the stronger periods for a beach stay, diving and snorkelling.
Migration locationSouthern Serengeti & Ndutu — calving on the short-grass plains.
The long rains
On safariUsually the wettest period. Landscapes are lush, visitor numbers fall and rates can be attractive, but some camps close and heavy rain can affect roads, airstrips and activities. The exact onset and intensity of the rains varies from year to year.
On the beachThis is normally the wettest and most humid period on Zanzibar, Pemba and the smaller islands. Heavy showers can be prolonged, seas may be rougher and some hotels close temporarily; choose it for value rather than guaranteed beach weather.
Migration locationSouthern and central Serengeti, moving towards the Western Corridor.
The long dry season
On safariExcellent safari conditions across Tanzania. Wildlife becomes increasingly concentrated around permanent water in Tarangire, Ruaha and Nyerere, while the migrating herds generally move through the western and northern Serengeti. July to October is peak season, so the best camps need early planning.
On the beachWarm, dry and less humid. The south-easterly trade wind can make exposed beaches breezy and the sea choppier, particularly from June to August, though conditions vary significantly between Zanzibar, Pemba and Fanjove and between individual coasts.
Migration locationWestern Corridor in June; northern Serengeti and the Mara River broadly July–October.
Short rains & green landscapes
On safariShort, often localised showers refresh the parks. The herds generally begin returning towards the eastern and southern Serengeti, wildlife disperses as water becomes more widely available, and November can offer very good value before the festive peak.
On the beachHeat and humidity build as the wind changes direction. Short tropical showers are common, particularly in November, but there is often plenty of sunshine between them and sea conditions generally become calmer towards Christmas.
Migration locationEastern and central Serengeti, returning towards the southern plains.
Weather and wildlife movements follow historical patterns and vary from year to year.
Migration location
Follow the herds.
Through the year.
The Great Migration moves around the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. Use this month-by-month guide to understand which area usually makes sense for your dates.
January
Southern Serengeti & NdutuHerds gather on the green short-grass plains.
February
Ndutu & southern plainsThe main calving period, with predators close behind.
March
Southern SerengetiHerds spread across the plains as the rains approach.
April
Southern to central SerengetiMovement becomes more scattered through the long rains.
May
Central Serengeti & Western CorridorLong columns begin moving north and west.
June
Western Corridor & GrumetiHerds gather in the west and continue towards the north.
July
Western to northern SerengetiA transition month as herds approach the Mara River.
August
Northern Serengeti & Maasai MaraHerds range across the border; Mara crossings are possible.
September
Northern Serengeti & Maasai MaraNorthern grazing and possible crossings in either direction.
October
Northern Serengeti, turning southHerds may linger in the north before the return journey.
November
Eastern & central SerengetiShort rains draw the herds towards fresh grazing further south.
December
Southern Serengeti & NdutuHerds return to the southern plains as grazing improves.
These are typical seasonal locations, not live herd positions. Rainfall changes the timing, herds can split across several areas, and river crossings are never guaranteed. We choose your camp around your dates and the latest local guidance.
Explore Great Migration safaris →