Tanzania's safari season is broadly divided into two seasons: the dry season (June–October) which offers the best overall game viewing, and the wet season (November–May) which brings lush landscapes, baby animals and lower prices. The short dry spell of January–February is also excellent. Mikumi National Park, however, is one of Tanzania's most reliably good year-round safari destinations.
Jan
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Short dry spell. Excellent game — especially calving season in Serengeti. Fewer crowds.
Feb
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Still dry. Baby animals everywhere. Fantastic Serengeti calving. Highly recommended.
Mar
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Long rains begin. Lush green park. Game viewing softer but prices lower. Mikumi accessible.
Apr
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Peak long rains. Some tracks muddy. Quieter. Budget option — lowest prices.
May
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Rains tapering. Park waking up. Budget travel. End of month sees improvement.
Jun
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Dry season begins! Game viewing picks up rapidly. Excellent across all parks.
Jul
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Peak season. Excellent everywhere. Serengeti western corridor river crossings begin.
Aug
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Peak season. Mara River crossings in northern Serengeti. Best wildlife action.
Sep
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Excellent game. Drier and cooler. Superb visibility. One of the best months.
Oct
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Late dry season. Great game viewing. Animals concentrated at water.
Nov
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Short rains begin. Birding excellent. Some afternoon showers. Still good.
Dec
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Short rains can continue. Game viewing good but variable. Festive season busy.