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March is one of the most underrated yet rewarding months to go on an African safari. The landscapes are lush and green after the seasonal rains, wildlife activity is high with the arrival of newborn animals, and the crowds of peak season have not yet arrived. This means you can enjoy spectacular game viewing, more tranquil parks, and often better value for your travel budget.
Whether you are dreaming of witnessing wildebeest calving in the Serengeti, tracking predators as they take advantage of this season of abundance, or soaking in vibrant birdlife across the continent, March offers a safari experience that feels alive, fresh, and full of surprises.
Not sure if March is the right month for your safari? Here’s how it compares to other popular safari seasons at a glance.
Season | Timing | Best For |
March (Transitional / Calving Season) | Tail end of short rains | Photographers, predator action, wildebeest calving |
Peak Season (Dry Season) | July–October, Dec–Feb | First-timers, Great Migration river crossings, classic Big Five viewing |
Green Season (Rainy Months) | Nov, Apr–June | Value-seekers, birders, repeat safari-goers |
Reviewed with our Kenya specialist to add authentic knowledge of wildlife and traditions.
March is a transitional month in Africa, and that makes it uniquely rewarding. Here are the main reasons travelers love it:
In Tanzania’s Southern Serengeti, wildebeest herds are in the middle of calving. Thousands of newborns appear across the plains, creating a spectacle of life and survival. With so many vulnerable young animals around, predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are never far behind, making this one of the most dramatic times of year for wildlife viewing.
March sits between peak safari months. Parks are quieter, lodges often have more availability, and prices are generally lower than during the high season. This combination gives you more space, more flexibility, and often more personal experiences with guides and rangers.
The recent rains leave the land vibrant and alive. Rolling plains turn emerald, flowers bloom, and birdlife flourishes. For photographers, this season provides striking backdrops and rich color contrasts that are harder to capture in drier months.
Not every part of Africa offers the same experience in March. Some regions are at their absolute best, while others are less accessible due to seasonal rains. Here are the top places to consider.
This is the heart of calving season. Hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras gather on the southern plains, and predators follow closely behind. Combine this with a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater for concentrated wildlife viewing in one of Africa’s most famous natural wonders.
While the Great Migration is still in Tanzania, Kenya’s conservancies deliver excellent wildlife density in March. The Mara Naboisho area in particular is rich with big cats, elephants, and giraffes. The benefit here is fewer crowds and a more exclusive safari feel.
March falls in South Africa’s green season. The bush is lush, the birding is superb, and you can often secure lower rates at luxury lodges. Kruger National Park and private reserves like Sabi Sands remain reliable for Big Five sightings, even when vegetation is thicker.
These regions can be more challenging in March. Heavy rains may flood certain areas, and vegetation can make wildlife harder to spot. However, the scenery is stunning and the quieter atmosphere appeals to travelers who prefer a more remote experience.
Pick from our curated packages for an easy start, or work with our specialists to design a custom itinerary that fits your group perfectly.
March is a month of contrasts across Africa. The rains bring life to the land, but they also influence how and where you should plan your safari.
March marks the tail end of the short rains. The grass is green and fresh, yet visibility for game drives remains good in most regions. This is the time of year when the Serengeti plains are filled with newborn wildebeest, and predators are highly active. Kenya’s reserves also remain accessible, though conditions can be muddier than in the dry season.
March falls firmly within the green season. Afternoon showers are common, but mornings and evenings often remain clear. The bush is lush, rivers are fuller, and the birding is outstanding. While the dense foliage can make spotting big game more challenging, reserves like Kruger and Sabi Sands still deliver excellent sightings. Some areas in Botswana and Zambia may be difficult to reach due to seasonal flooding.
Like any time of year, a safari in March has its advantages and trade-offs. Knowing both helps you plan with confidence.
Pros
Cons
A little preparation can make your March safari smoother and more rewarding. Here are some key pointers.
Choose the Right Region
Focus on Tanzania or Kenya if you want to witness the calving season and predator action. For value-driven luxury and consistently good Big Five sightings, South Africa’s Kruger and private reserves are a strong choice.
Pack Smart
Bring lightweight layers for warm days and cooler mornings, along with a light rain jacket for afternoon showers. Waterproof shoes or boots are useful if you expect muddy conditions. Don’t forget binoculars for birding and extra memory cards for photography.
Time Your Game Drives
Wildlife is most active in the early morning and late afternoon. In March, showers often arrive in the middle of the day, so this natural rhythm works in your favor.
Take Advantage of Birding
March is excellent for spotting migratory birds in lush environments. If you are a keen birder, ask your guide to tailor some drives or walks specifically for this.
Insider’s Tip: Stay flexible. A short rain shower might delay a drive, but those same rains often bring cooler air, fresh scents, and unforgettable sunsets once the clouds clear.
If you want to make the most of March’s safari season without piecing everything together yourself, here are two journeys that fit the month’s conditions perfectly.
This two-week adventure is ideal for travelers who want to experience both Kenya and Tanzania at their best in March. The timing aligns with the wildebeest calving season in the Serengeti, where predator activity is at its peak. You will also explore Kenya’s Maasai Mara, Aberdare highlands, and Rift Valley lakes, making it a well-rounded East African safari.
What to expect
For travelers who prefer a shorter but still immersive safari, this itinerary focuses exclusively on Kenya. March brings lush landscapes and vibrant birdlife, while wildlife viewing remains strong across multiple parks.
What to expect
A safari in March offers a unique blend of advantages. The Serengeti calving season creates unforgettable wildlife moments, predators are on the move, landscapes are lush and vibrant, and the parks are quieter than during peak months.
While rains can bring some unpredictability, they also breathe life into the land and set the stage for dramatic sunsets, thriving birdlife, and more affordable travel opportunities.
If you are ready to experience Africa in one of its most dynamic months, March is the time to go.
Is March a good month for safari?
Yes. March is one of the best times to experience the wildebeest calving season in Tanzania’s Serengeti, with dramatic predator encounters. It is also less crowded and more affordable than peak season.
Where can I see the Great Migration in March?
In March, the herds are concentrated in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu region, where thousands of wildebeest calves are born. This is the heart of the calving season.
Will rain spoil my safari in March?
Rain is common but usually comes in short afternoon showers. Game drives are typically scheduled for mornings and late afternoons, which often remain clear. The rains also keep landscapes green and wildlife active.
Is March better for Kenya or Tanzania?
Tanzania is the best choice in March for those wanting to see the calving season. Kenya is also excellent, with strong wildlife densities and fewer crowds, though the Migration itself is still south in Tanzania.
What should I pack for a safari in March?
Lightweight layers, a rain jacket, waterproof shoes, binoculars, and extra memory cards. Pack for both warm days and cooler mornings, and be ready for brief showers.
