An alluring wilderness no matter what time of year you visit.

The dry season which runs from June until the end of October sees water sources drying up, and the wildlife congregating around the rivers and numerous waterholes. This makes for excellent big-game viewing, particularly when it comes to predator action as the herbivores constant quest for water makes them vulnerable to opportunistic hunters. The movements of the wildlife in the park are a little more predictable and so our intrepid team of guides traverse the winding water ways, in vehicle, on foot and by boat in search of exciting wild action.

From November the rains begin to arrive in Tanzania and this heralds the arrival of youngsters of all shapes and sizes. The impala and many other antelope choose this time of plenty to have their babies, which again yields exciting opportunities to witness predators in action. A huge highlight of this time of year is the birding. Migratory bird species arrive in the area and don their very impressive breeding plumage, often an explosion of unexpected colour in the bush as they flit from tree to tree. Boating is excellent as the river level rises.

June

July – August

September – October

November – December

January – March

Dry season approaching

The water recedes, grasses dry out, leaves begin to fall. Wildlife is in top condition. Many birds still have their breeding plumage, June is an exciting month for new lion cubs and pride dynamics.

June is a common month for many plants to flower. June is typically cool, with some rainfall early in the month. Days are often overcast, which makes for great afternoon and late morning safaris. Good time for fly-camping.

Prices from $3,160 exclusive camp per night
June

Cool, dry, and superb wildlife

Wildlife is concentrated along the river and lakes. Walking is superb as the vegetation opens up. The sand river and jungle game drive route comes into season. River sightings are excellent as sand banks are exposed for hippos and crocodiles.

The marshes are well watered and become popular spots for herbivores, and therefore predators. Elephant sightings in camp occur regularly, even daily. Predator sightings are typically excellent.

July and August are typically the coolest months with overcast skies but 0mm of rainfall. Cool, overcast mornings allow for fantastic long walks. Excellent for fly-camps.

Prices from $4,700 exclusive camp per night
July – August

Wildlife gatherings at rivers and lakes

River and lakes team with wildlife. An excellent month for predators; game loses condition and becomes vulnerable around drinking spots. Elephants continue to gather at the river to feed and begin to dig drinking holes in the dry riverbeds.

By the end of October, even some of the smaller lakes and the garden become dry. Elephants resort to stripping bark off trees for sustenance. The first migratory birds begin to arrive. Excellent time for boating and fly-camping.

Nyerere becomes ever drier, water sources become more critical. Weather completely dry and temperate. October often brings isolated storms and rain showers. Temperature and humidity increase considerably. Best month for sunsets.

Prices from $4,700 exclusive camp per night
September – October

Return of the rains but wildlife still excellent

November is typically still quite dry, but we may see the first rains. The grasses sprout 5-7 days after the first sustained rainfall. Migratory birds begin to arrive.

December is typically a month of change. Migratory birds become ubiquitous, trees begin to grow new leaves, and by the end of the month, the green season has set in. December is a very hot and humid month. Fly-camp may be disrupted by rainfall.

Temperatures are consistently warm, and rainfall is erratic, with some years bringing isolated showers and other years bringing more sustained rainfall.

Prices from $3,160 exclusive camp per night
November – December

Green, lush and full of life

Depending on the rain, wildlife may be dispersed so you might have to work a bit harder, but the rewards are always great. The bush is also beautiful and green, trees in flower and full of life. Birds starting to get breeding plumage.

January is normally quite a hot month and there is the chance of the odd shower. Walking best done early or in the cool of the late afternoon.

February is often one of the most beautiful months here, but a lot depends on the rains which are erratic at this time of the year - it can either be quite green or reasonably dry.

March in Nyerere still likely to be green and beautiful and this is one of the best months for birding, boating, and walking. The river normally rises and there's still the odd chance of a shower and expect dramatic cloud formations.

Prices from $3,160 exclusive camp per night
January – March

Southern Tanzania safaris

This is all about experience. A safari spent in the game rich plains of Ruaha, and the endless wilderness of Nyerere, the south is hard to beat.

Reviews

R.

Review for kiba point

Paradise in Africa

Paradise in the depths of africa amazing staff and amazing h fishing

Camps visited:

J. Thompson

Review for kiba point

Fantastic Authentic Experience

A fantastic authentic experience! From the place of stay to the excursions and guide knowledge. Lovely staff with a warm approach.

Camps visited:

R. McDonald

Review for kiba point

Outstanding Kiba Point

Kiba Point is outstanding and absolutely stunning! The staff elevate this Safari holiday to a trip of a lifetime with service and experiences that will stay will you forever

Camps visited:

S. McDonald

Review for kiba point

Best Holiday Stay

Kiba point, is by far the best holiday stay I have ever been on. From the staff to the Safari drive to fishing, and boat ride. Evey minute of this stunning experience has just been way beyond what I expected. Its an absolutely beautiful place to stay which will live with me for a lifetime.

Camps visited:

A. Ltd

Review for kiba point

Beautiful Private Camp

A beautiful setting. This private camp offers more than just game drives. Leave the crowds and come here!

Camps visited:

FAQs

What vaccinations or health precautions do I need?

Yellow Fever vaccinations are required if you are arriving from endemic countries. Other recommended vaccinations include tetanus, diptheria, polio, hepatitis A and typhoid. You will also need to consider hepatitis B and malaria prevention medicines. In all cases, you must seek advice from your medical professional.

What is the best month to travel to Tanzania?

Tanzania is a year round destination, especially in Northern Tanzania. So your visit often depends on family schedules or particular wildlife experiences on the bucket list. We love January to March in Ngorongoro and southern Serengeti Plains when the air is clear, nice temperatures and the migration arrives in town for calving season. This is an extraordinary time to be there.

What is the most popular safari in Tanzania?

Northern Tanzania is probably the most well known part of the country with the world famous spectacle, the Wildebeest Migration, drawing travellers year round. A full northern circuit brings incredible wildlife from Tarangire to the Ngorongoro Crater and that's before you even get to the Serengeti. Prepare for a density of wildlife like nowhere else in Africa. That being said, the south offers a quieter safari experience in Ruaha and Nyerere. Here you can get off the beaten track in explore some superb game areas. And for us, the ultimate safari combo comes in the west - a big game, wilderness experience in Katavi combines with jaw dropping chimpanzee encounters in Mahale. Over 7-days this safari will blow you away.

How much driving is involved in a Tanzania Safari?

The driving distances on a Tanzania safari can vary depending on the area you are visiting and also your appetite for driving. Northern Tanzania allows for a full driving circuit with National Parks within reasonable distances. We love to drive when we can as we believe it allows for an exciting adventure through towns and villages and you learn so much about Tanzania and its wonderful people.

How many days is enough for a Tanzania safari?

Many people underestimate how immersive a safari experience is. Time in the bush can be tiring – most mornings you will be up before sunrise as the wild wakes up your day continues into long evenings spent under the stars. If you’re travelling with children, we always recommend a private guide and exclusive vehicle (included as standard with Nomad) that means a lie in here and there is always possible. 

There is no rule for the number of days on safari but we would recommend taking your time in each location and not rushing through safari parks. Give yourselves time to stop and immerse yourself in the area. Many travellers consider a pit stop at the beaches of Zanzibar or Mafia Island to re-charge post safari and before they head back to the real world.

Do lodges offer honeymoon packages or upgrades?

Many do, yes - private dinners, spa treatments or surprise sundowners that add thoughtful moments to the trip. Occasionally, there are discounts for one spouse and it can be worth researching.

Do I need a visa to travel to Tanzania?

Not all travellers into Tanzania require a visa. You must have a single entry tourist visa or business visa, is the general rule but there are country exemptions from this. On the most part, single entry or business visas can be obtained on arrival but we recommend where possible, to process the visa online ahead of travel - just make sure you allow enough time to do so!

What is the difference between a lodge and a tented camp?

Lodges are more permanent, often with solid walls and more amenities available. Tented camp are light touch, with canvas walls, open air and the sounds of bush throughout!

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