Tanzania is divided into two travel seasons which are the dry season and green season.
Understanding the difference between these seasons will help you plan a journey that matches your expectations, budget and adventure goals.
Understanding Tanzania’s Seasons
Tanzania’s climate is tropical with two distinct periods of dry and rainy seasons. The dry season lasts from June to October. The green season or wet season is from November to May, which includes the heaviest rains in March to May.
Travel is possible in both seasons. But safari and trekking experiences are radically different depending on the time of the year.
Dry Season: Peak Time for Safari and Trekking
The dry season is often considered the best time to visit Tanzania for Safari and trekking, especially for first-time travelers.
Safari Experience in the Dry Season
During the dry season, animals gather around rivers and waterholes. This makes wildlife easier to spot. Grass is shorter, and visibility is excellent. Predator and prey interactions are more frequent.
It is the right time to visit Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. The river crossings of the Great Migration, which is famous, take place mainly in between July and September.
Trekking Conditions in the Dry Season
Dry weather creates stable trekking conditions. Trails are less slippery, and mountain views are clear. The dry season is the most preferred time to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro or make a trip to Mount Meru.
It is quite nice during the day. However, at night the temperature can go down to freezing point in the mountain regions. Hence, taking good measures is very important.
The dry season has the following advantages:
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Wildlife viewing at the best
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Great trekking weather
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Photos and views of nice landscape
There are some drawbacks of the dry season:
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Prices are higher
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Parks that are frequently visited can be overcrowded
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During the peak month, there is a limitation on the availability of accommodation
Green Season: A Lush and Peaceful Alternative
The green season has a completely different but just as rewarding experience. It is a period that most people ignore, yet it offers many advantages.
Safari Experience During the Green Season
Rain turns Tanzania into a green wonderland. The colors of the landscape are bright and animals are everywhere. It may take time to spot the wildlife, but the whole experience is much more personal.
This time of the year is the best for birdwatching. Many migratory birds come in great numbers. The calving season also occurs, mainly in the southern Serengeti, which lures the predators.
Trekking Conditions in the Green Season
Climbing is still possible during the green season; particularly, it is very suitable in the months of January and February. Trails can become slippery and the clouds might obscure the views at times. Nevertheless, a small number of climbers make the ascent peaceful and very close to nature.
The photographers have been able to take utmost advantage of the new skyings and the new landscapes that have been opened up to them. Instead of heavy rains, the rainfall has been happening mostly in short spurts.
Green Season Pros:
Parks with fewer visitors
Lower prices for safaris and trekking
Lush nature and excellent photography
Green Season Cons
Animals might not be seen
Some roads may be impassable
March to May is the month with the most rainfall
Dry Season or Green Season: Which one is Your Choice?
The decision of the best time to visit Tanzania for safari and trekking solely relies on your travel priorities.
If wildlife photography, game viewing and trekking for less hassle are your main criteria, then the dry season will be your safest option. It is ideal for travelers with tight schedules and those visiting Tanzania for the first time.
On the other hand, if a serene environment of parks, relatively cheap prices, and a lush green landscape are your priorities, then the green season is a very strong option. It is good for repeat tourists, photographers, and people who like being around nature without many people.
Conclusion
Tanzania is a destination that can be visited any time of the year. The dry season and green season both provide amazing opportunities for safari and trekking. There isn’t just one perfect month for everyone.
The real best time for a safari and trekking in Tanzania is when it is your interests, comfort level, and travel style that are matched. Any season can turn your Tanzanian adventure into a once-in-a-lifetime experience if you plan properly.
