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Benson Safaris Tanzania | Best Time to Visit Serengeti – Month-by-Month Safari Guide 2026

  • Home >> Blog >>Benson Safaris Tanzania | Best Time to Visit Serengeti – Month-by-Month Safari Guide 2026
The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world. Known for its vast savannahs, diverse wildlife, and the spectacular wildebeest migration, the Serengeti offers a unique safari experience all year round. However, the best time to visit depends on what you want to see—big cats, newborn wildebeest calves, or the famous river crossings. This month-by-month guide helps you plan your perfect Serengeti safari in 2026.

January – Calving Season in the Southern Serengeti

  • Wildlife Highlights: Thousands of wildebeest calves are born this month, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
  • Weather: Warm temperatures with occasional short rains.
  • Advantages: Ideal for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts wanting dramatic predator action.

 

Tip: Stay in southern Serengeti lodges to be close to the calving grounds.

February – Peak Calving & Predator Sightings

  • Wildlife Highlights: Predator action continues; zebras and wildebeest are still concentrated in the southern plains.
  • Weather: Dry and hot, making wildlife spotting easier.
  • Advantages: Fewer tourists than peak migration months.

 

Tip: Early morning game drives are perfect for capturing wildlife interactions.

Benson Safaris | Common Wildebeest herd foraging on grass of Mooiplas

March – Short Rains Begin

  • Wildlife Highlights: Wildebeest start moving slowly north; predators are still active.
  • Weather: Short rains, lush green landscapes, and fewer tourists.
  • Advantages: Ideal for nature photography with green landscapes and fewer crowds.

 

Tip: Bring a waterproof jacket and plan drives carefully, as some tracks can be slippery.

April – Wet Season Safari

  • Wildlife Highlights: Best time for birdwatching; many migratory birds arrive. Large herbivores are spread across the park.
  • Weather: Heavy rains in early April; park roads may be muddy.
  • Advantages: Lowest tourist numbers and lower safari costs.

 

Tip: Ideal for budget travelers seeking a quiet safari experience.

Benson Safaris | herd of zebra in the Serengeti

May – End of Wet Season

  • Wildlife Highlights: Predators are more visible in areas where grass is thinner; bird activity is still high.
  • Weather: Rain decreases toward the end of May; roads improve.
  • Advantages: Good balance between wildlife viewing and fewer tourists.

 

Tip: A great time to find green landscapes and vibrant photography opportunities.

June – Start of Dry Season & Migration Movement

  • Wildlife Highlights: Wildebeest start moving toward central Serengeti. Lions, cheetahs, and leopards are active.
  • Weather: Dry, sunny days; excellent for game drives.
  • Advantages: High wildlife concentration and comfortable safari conditions.

 

Tip: Book early for mid-range and luxury lodges, as June marks the beginning of peak season.

Benson Safaris | Leopard in the serengeti national reserve

July – Migration Crossings Begin

  • Wildlife Highlights: Wildebeest and zebras reach northern Serengeti; river crossings start in late July.
  • Weather: Dry season continues; perfect safari conditions.
  • Advantages: Witness the spectacular Mara River crossings, a top safari highlight.

 

Tip: Stay in northern Serengeti lodges for the best crossing views.

August – Peak Migration & Dry Season

  • Wildlife Highlights: Wildebeest and zebra herds dominate the northern Serengeti and Mara River. Predators are highly active.
  • Weather: Dry, sunny, and cooler nights.
  • Advantages: Best time for photography and migration action.

 

Tip: Bring binoculars and cameras with telephoto lenses for river crossing shots.

Benson Safaris | Leader of Pack of Wildebeest Testing Waters

September – Dry Season Safari

  • Wildlife Highlights: Herds continue in northern Serengeti; predator activity remains high.
  • Weather: Dry season peaks; excellent road conditions.
  • Advantages: Great time for game drives and bird photography.

 

Tip: Book early; this is one of the busiest months due to the migration.

October – Late Dry Season

  • Wildlife Highlights: Wildebeest start moving back south; predators follow. Smaller tourist numbers compared to August–September.
  • Weather: Dry, warm, and sunny.
  • Advantages: Fewer tourists; excellent game drives and migration photography.

 

Tip: Combine central and southern Serengeti for diverse wildlife experiences.

benson safaris

November – Start of Short Rains & Quiet Safari

  • Wildlife Highlights: Wildebeest move toward southern Serengeti; predators remain active. Birds are abundant.
  • Weather: Short rains begin; landscapes turn lush green.
  • Advantages: Low tourist season, quiet lodges, and unique wildlife photography.

 

Tip: Roads may be slippery; 4×4 vehicles are essential.

December – Green Season & Calving Preparation

  • Wildlife Highlights: Wildebeest gather in southern Serengeti, preparing for calving season.
  • Weather: Short rains; warm and green landscapes.
  • Advantages: Fewer crowds and scenic landscapes.

 

Tip: Great for photography and seeing predators in action on the lush plains.

Serengeti Ngorongoro Tarangire Tours

Serengeti Safari Month-by-Month Summary Table

Month

Wildlife Highlights

Advantages

Best Area to Stay

Jan

Calving season, predators

Fewer tourists, dramatic wildlife

Southern Serengeti

Feb

Predator action continues

Dry, excellent game drives

Southern Serengeti

Mar

Migration begins, birdwatching

Lush green landscapes

Central Serengeti

Apr

Heavy rains, birds

Budget-friendly safari

Central Serengeti

May

Drying season, predators visible

Low crowds, green scenery

Central Serengeti

Jun

Migration moves north

High wildlife concentration

Central Serengeti

Jul

Mara River crossings

Best for photography

Northern Serengeti

Aug

Peak migration

Predator action, photography

Northern Serengeti

Sep

Northern herds

Excellent road conditions

Northern Serengeti

Oct

Migration returns south

Fewer tourists

Central & Southern Serengeti

Nov

Birdwatching, short rains

Quiet season, lush landscapes

Southern Serengeti

Dec

Calving preparation

Scenic landscapes, low crowds

Southern Serengeti

 

Tips for Visiting Serengeti in 2026

  • Book early: Peak season lodges fill fast (July–September).
  • Choose the right region: Southern, central, or northern Serengeti based on wildlife you want to see.
  • Bring gear: Binoculars, telephoto camera lenses, sun protection, and comfortable clothing.
  • 4×4 vehicle: Essential for dry and wet seasons.
  • Combine parks: Consider Ngorongoro Crater or Tarangire for a complete safari experience.

Why Choose Benson Safaris Tanzania for Serengeti Safaris?

With over 20 years of safari experience, Benson Safaris Tanzania offers:

  • Experienced guides and drivers for safe, memorable safaris
  • Well-maintained 4×4 safari vehicles
  • Budget and midrange lodges in prime Serengeti areas
  • Customized itineraries to match your travel style and wildlife interests

 

Contact Benson Safaris Tanzania today to plan your Serengeti safari in 2026 and experience the magic of East Africa wildlife!

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