Best Time to Visit Kenya and Tanzania for a Combined Safari
Your month-by-month guide to planning the ultimate East African adventure.
Why Timing Matters for a Kenya–Tanzania Safari
Kenya and Tanzania are two of Africa’s top safari destinations, and timing your trip right can mean the difference between good wildlife viewing and mind-blowing safari moments.
From the Great Migration and calving season to predator hunts and breathtaking landscapes, each month offers unique reasons to visit. Here’s your month-by-month breakdown so you can plan with confidence.
Month-by-Month Safari Planner
| Month | Highlights in Kenya | Highlights in Tanzania | Safari Suggestions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Warm, dry weather; baby animals in Amboseli & Samburu | Calving season in southern Serengeti (thousands of wildebeest births) | 10-Day Calving Season Safari |
| February | Peak predator sightings in the Mara & Samburu | Calving continues; big cats active in Serengeti | Great Migration & Predator Safari |
| March | Pre-rains; fewer crowds in Kenyan parks | Migration herds start moving north | Mara–Serengeti Combo |
| April | Long rains start; lush landscapes | Fewer tourists, great for budget trips | Green Season Photography Safari |
| May | Rains taper off; dramatic skies | Grumeti River crossing season begins | Migration & River Crossings Safari |
| June | Dry season starts; perfect game drives | Migration reaches central Serengeti | Kenya–Tanzania Classic Safari |
| July | Mara River crossings start in Kenya | Migration herds in northern Serengeti | Great Migration Cross-Border Safari |
| August | Peak migration in Masai Mara | Herds split between Mara & Serengeti | Kenya–Tanzania Migration Loop |
| September | Predator action in Mara; fewer crowds | Some herds still in Serengeti | Big Cat & Migration Safari |
| October | Dry season ending; great for photography | Short rains may begin; migration heads south | End of Migration Safari |
| November | Short rains; fewer tourists | Wildlife viewing still good in Ngorongoro & Tarangire | Off-Season Adventure Safari |
| December | Festive season; excellent game drives | Migration herds in southern Serengeti |
Seasonal Safari Breakdown
Dry Season (June–October) – Best for the Great Migration
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Why go? Clear skies, little rain, animals congregate near water sources.
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Best for: Migration river crossings, photography, predator sightings.
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Tour idea: Great Migration Kenya–Tanzania 12-Day Safari
Green Season (November–May) – Best for Calving & Fewer Crowds
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Why go? Lush landscapes, baby animals, lower rates.
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Best for: Birding, calving season in Serengeti, photography.
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Tour idea: Calving Season & Big Cats 10-Day Safari
Pro Tips for Planning Your Safari
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Combine Countries for the Best of Both Worlds – Witness different migration phases in each country.
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Book Early for Peak Months – July–September sells out fast.
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Use Fly-In Safaris for Efficiency – Avoid long road transfers between countries.
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Add a Beach Extension – End your safari in Zanzibar or Diani Beach.
Final Recommendation
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First-time visitors: Go July–October for guaranteed action.
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Wildlife photographers: Try January–March for soft light and baby animals.
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Budget-conscious travelers: April–May for lower rates and lush landscapes.
Ready to Plan Your Safari?
Chat with a safari expert now to create your custom Kenya–Tanzania itinerary.
Get a free quote for your preferred month.
Book a Great Migration or Calving Season Safari today.
FAQs – Best Time to Visit Kenya & Tanzania
What is the absolute best month for a Kenya–Tanzania safari?
July–September is ideal for river crossings and predator action, but January–February is unbeatable for calving season.
Can I see the Great Migration in both countries in one trip?
Yes! With a cross-border itinerary, you can catch different migration phases in the Serengeti and Masai Mara.
Is the rainy season bad for safaris?
Not at all—while April–May have heavier rains, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds, lush scenery, and great rates.