Best Time for Tanzania and Uganda Safari Tours
Photo by retired National Geographic photographer Bob Madden
Planning a safari in Tanzania or Uganda? Timing is everything to maximize your wildlife adventure. From the Serengeti’s iconic Great Migration to gorilla trekking in Uganda’s lush forests, each destination offers unique experiences shaped by weather, wildlife behavior, and seasonal patterns. With Duma Explorer’s expert guidance, discover the best times to visit for an unforgettable Tanzania or Uganda safari.
Why Tanzania and Uganda?
Tanzania: Home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire, Tanzania offers world-class wildlife experiences. Witness the Great Migration, spot the Big Five, or see newborn animals during calving season.
Uganda: Known as the "Pearl of Africa," Uganda is a haven for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale. Its diverse parks, like Queen Elizabeth, teem with wildlife.
Best Times for a Tanzania Safari
Tanzania’s safari seasons align with its dry and wet periods, each offering distinct advantages:
Dry Season (June–October): Perfect for wildlife viewing in the Serengeti and Tarangire. Animals gather at waterholes, and sparse vegetation ensures clear sightings. The Great Migration, from July to October, sees millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the Serengeti into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, pursued by predators like lions and crocodiles. Clear skies make this ideal for photography.
Calving Season (January–March): Visit the southern Serengeti to see newborn wildebeests and zebras. Predators are active, making this a thrilling time for wildlife action.
Shoulder Seasons (April–May, November): Enjoy lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and vibrant birdlife. These months offer budget-friendly deals and serene safari experiences.
Best Times for a Uganda Safari
Uganda’s equatorial climate allows year-round safaris, but timing enhances specific experiences:
Dry Season (June–September, December–February): Ideal for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park. Drier trails make hiking easier, and wildlife in parks like Queen Elizabeth is concentrated around water sources.
Wet Season (March–May, October–November): Lush greenery and migratory birds attract photographers and birdwatchers. Gorilla trekking is still possible, with fewer visitors and lower permit costs.
Seasonal Wildlife Highlights
Tanzania’s Great Migration: From June to September, witness the dramatic river crossings of wildebeests in the Serengeti, a bucket-list spectacle. January to March brings calving season, with predators like cheetahs and hyenas in action.
Uganda’s Gorilla Trekking: Track mountain gorillas in Bwindi or Mgahinga during the dry months (June–September) for optimal trail conditions. Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest is also a highlight year-round.
Birdwatching: Both countries shine during wet seasons, with migratory birds adding color to Tanzania’s savannas and Uganda’s forests.
Weather and Planning Tips
Tanzania: The dry season (June–October) offers cooler temperatures and minimal rain, perfect for game drives. Wet seasons (November–May) bring lush scenery but may affect road access in remote areas.
Uganda: Consistent temperatures year-round mean safaris are always viable. Dry seasons are best for trekking, while wet seasons offer vibrant landscapes and quieter parks.
Pro Tip: Book early for peak seasons, especially for gorilla permits in Uganda, as they are limited.
Why Choose Duma Explorer?
At Duma Explorer, we craft personalized Tanzania and Uganda safari tours that immerse you in East Africa’s wilderness. Led by owner Stacy Readal’s deep local expertise, our guided safaris and Kilimanjaro climbs blend adventure, culture, and conservation. Whether you’re a family, couple, or solo traveler, we tailor each journey to your interests, ensuring a memorable experience.
Plan Your Dream Safari
Ready to witness the Great Migration or trek with gorillas? The best time for your Tanzania or Uganda safari depends on your goals—whether it’s dramatic wildlife spectacles, serene landscapes, or intimate primate encounters.
