When it comes to planning a safari in Tanzania and Kenya, timing is everything. These two East African neighbors share some of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth, from the wildebeest migration thundering across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara to lush green landscapes filled with newborn animals and colorful birdlife.
The safari experience in this region revolves around its world-famous parks and reserves. In Tanzania, travelers flock to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. In Kenya, the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Samburu are the standouts. Together, they create one of the richest safari circuits in the world.
While this guide focuses on the best times to visit Kenya and Tanzania for safari, we also touch on related highlights such as Zanzibar’s beaches, Kilimanjaro treks, and cultural festivals. Many travelers combine these experiences into one itinerary, so understanding how the seasons align across the region will help you plan a trip that is seamless and rewarding.
Reviewed with our Kenya specialist to add authentic knowledge of wildlife and traditions.
If you just want the quick answer, here it is:
That is the big picture. For more detail on how the climate and migration align, see the seasonal calendar below.
The Great Migration defines much of the safari experience in Tanzania and Kenya, but weather patterns also shape how comfortable and rewarding your trip will be. Here is how the seasons unfold, with where the herds are, what the landscapes look like, and which travelers each time suits best.
| Season & Location | Climate | Wildlife | Best for | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December–March — Southern Serengeti (Calving Season) | Warm and mostly dry with occasional showers | Thousands of wildebeest are born, predators active in dramatic scenes | Travelers who want predator-prey encounters and newborn wildlife | January and February are peak calving months, continuing into march safari experience |
| April–May — Central & Western Serengeti (Green Season) | Long rains; landscapes turn lush and emerald | Herds spread across central plains; birdlife at its best | Photographers and adventurous travelers who enjoy dramatic skies and fewer crowds | Some lodges close; plan carefully |
| June–July — Grumeti River Crossings (Tanzania) | Dry season begins; cooler mornings and evenings | First major river crossings as herds push west and north | Migration chasers seeking excitement before peak-season crowds | Book early; western Serengeti availability is limited |
| July–September — Mara River Crossings (Kenya) | Dry and sunny with excellent visibility for game drives | Peak migration crossings into the Maasai Mara | First-time safari-goers seeking the classic migration experience | Stay near Maasai Mara rivers for best chance of dramatic crossings |
| October–November — Return South (Back to Serengeti) | Short rains refresh the plains without hindering safaris | Herds begin the journey south to Tanzania | Value seekers wanting migration action without peak crowds | A quieter, rewarding time before the cycle begins again |
Pick from our curated packages for an easy start, or work with our specialists to design a custom itinerary that fits your group perfectly.
Many travelers ask whether they should visit Kenya or Tanzania. The truth is, the two countries complement each other perfectly, and the timing of your trip is a big reason why.
Kenya offers iconic landscapes like the Maasai Mara and Amboseli, where elephants roam beneath views of Kilimanjaro. Tanzania is home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire, offering wide-open plains and dense wildlife concentrations.
Together, you follow the migration as it crosses borders, witness a greater variety of ecosystems, and experience cultural diversity from the Maasai of Kenya to the Hadzabe of Tanzania. Our curated Kenya and Tanzania safari packages bring these highlights together in one itinerary.
Beyond wildlife viewing, the timing of your safari can also shape other parts of your trip. Here are a few seasonal highlights that many travelers overlook.
Climbing Kilimanjaro
Birdwatching
Cultural Events
If you are ready to turn ideas into a real journey, here are four of our handpicked safari packages. Each one is designed to align with the highlights of different seasons in Kenya and Tanzania.
A nine-day itinerary covering Aberdare, Samburu, Lake Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara. This is a great option for travelers with limited time, offering excellent game viewing in both peak and shoulder seasons.
Wonders of Kenya with Zanzibar Island Escape
A journey through Kenya’s most iconic parks, including Aberdare, Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara. End your adventure with a few days of relaxation on Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches, exploring Stone Town and a spice farm.
African Safari Adventure Tours
Explore the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater on a 14-day journey that captures the very best of East Africa. This trip is especially rewarding from June to October, when the Great Migration is in full swing.
African Adventure with Zanzibar Island Escape
Seventeen days of wildlife and culture, ending with time to relax on Zanzibar’s beaches. Ideal for November to February travelers who want to balance game drives with laid-back coastal charm.
