What Is the Best Time to Do an African Safari?

Planning an African safari is an exciting experience, but choosing the right time to travel can make a big difference in what you see and how you experience it. While safaris are possible all year round, the best time depends on weather conditions, wildlife movements, and your personal travel preferences.

In popular safari destinations like Tanzania and Kenya, seasons play an important role in wildlife viewing.

The Dry Season: Peak Safari Time (June to October)

For many travelers, the dry season is the best time to go on safari. During these months, rainfall is minimal, vegetation becomes thinner, and animals gather around limited water sources such as rivers and waterholes. This makes wildlife easier to spot.

In East Africa, this period is also famous for the dramatic Great Migration river crossings in Serengeti National Park and the Maasai Mara, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross crocodile-filled rivers.

Advantages of the dry season:

Excellent wildlife visibility
Comfortable weather with little rain
Fewer mosquitoes
Easier road access in parks

The only downside is that this is peak tourist season, so prices are generally higher and parks can be busier.

The Green Season: Beautiful and Budget-Friendly (November to May)

The rainy or “green” season offers a completely different safari experience. The landscapes transform into lush, green scenery, and many animals give birth during this time.

In places like the southern Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, January and February mark the calving season, when thousands of wildebeest are born. This attracts predators such as lions and cheetahs, creating dramatic wildlife encounters.

Benefits of the green season:

Fewer tourists
Lower accommodation prices
Beautiful photography opportunities
Excellent birdwatching, especially migratory species

However, heavy rains can occur between March and May, and some roads may become muddy or difficult to pass.

Best Time Based on Your Safari Goals

The best time for your safari ultimately depends on what you want to experience:

For the Big Five and classic game viewing: June to October
For the Great Migration river crossings: July to September
For baby animals and predator action: January to February
For birdwatching: November to April
For lower prices and fewer crowds: March to May

Conclusion

There is no single “perfect” time for an African safari each season offers something unique. If your priority is easy wildlife viewing and dry weather, the dry season is ideal. If you prefer dramatic green landscapes, fewer crowds, and better prices, the green season can be equally rewarding.

No matter when you travel, a safari in Africa promises unforgettable wildlife, stunning scenery, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.