Best Time to Go on Safari from Zanzibar – Month-by-Month Guide

Beach + Bush? Timing Is Everything

Zanzibar is paradise year-round, but if you’re planning to combine your beach holiday with a Tanzania safari, timing is crucial. Wildlife sightings, weather, and park conditions all change by season. So when is the best time to go on safari from Zanzibar?

Let’s break it down by seasons, safari types, and month-by-month suggestions so you can plan the perfect trip.

🗓️ Tanzania Safari Seasons at a Glance

Season	Months	Weathers	Best For
Dry season	une – October	Cool, sunny, no rain	Wildlife visibility, Big Five safaris
Short Rains	November – Mid-Dec	Light rain showers	Fewer crowds, lush landscapes
Green/Wet Season	Mid-Dec – May	Rainy & lush

🦁 Best Time for Wildlife Viewing (Big Five Focus)

• June to October = PRIME TIME

  • Animals gather around rivers and waterholes

  • Serengeti plains are open, clear, and active

  • Ngorongoro Crater visibility is excellent

  • Little to no rain – great road conditions

  • Fly-in safaris and lodge stays are ideal

✅ Ideal for 3 to 5-day safaris from Zanzibar

🌿 Best Time for Scenic Safaris & Fewer Crowds

• November to early December (Short Rains)

  • Rain brings greenery but parks remain accessible

  • Great time for photographers

  • Lower prices and less tourist traffic

  • Good for 2 or 3-day trips from Zanzibar

🐣 Best Time for Calving & New Life in the Serengeti

• January to March

  • Wildebeest calving season in Southern Serengeti

  • Amazing predator-prey action

  • Mild weather and stunning views

  • Excellent for fly-in safaris from Zanzibar

🌧️ When to Avoid (If Possible)

• April to May (Long rains)

  • Heavy rains may cause road issues

  • Lodges may close or run on limited services

  • Some budget safaris still operate – great for deals

  • Great time to enjoy Zanzibar’s low season with calm beaches

🏖️ Beach & Safari Combo? Here’s What to Do:

If You Visit Zanzibar In…	Go on Safari in…
January – March	Southern Serengeti (calving)
June – October	Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire (dry season)
November – Dec	Mixed options – lush & quiet
April – May	Consider fly-in or postpone if you want dry land safaris

Elephant

📆 Month-by-Month Safari Recommendations

• January – March: Calving season + beach = heaven

• April – May: Rainy, but budget-friendly

• June – July: Start of Great Migration + clear skies

• August – September: Peak safari time, great visibility

• October – November: Elephants in Tarangire, fewer crowds

• December (early): Green parks, nice mix of sun and wildlife

✅ Final Tips: When Should YOU Travel?

• Want to see as much wildlife as possible? Go June–October

• Want lower prices and lush views? Try November or March

• Want to avoid rain altogether? Avoid April–May

  
  

🎯 Pro Tip: Fly from Zanzibar to Arusha or Seronera (Serengeti) to maximize your time and avoid road transfers.

📩 Ready to Plan Your Safari from Zanzibar?

Whether you're visiting in July or January, we’ll help you match your Zanzibar stay with the best safari experience possible.Talk to a safari expert today and let us craft a perfect beach + bush itinerary for 2025!