Generally, Tanzania is best to visit in the dry-season months of July – October when the parks are dry and wildlife viewing is dramatic, easy and action packed. Especially when with children, it is best to combine the excitement of safari with down time on the beach so it is a good idea to avoid the rainy season!
However, there are pros and cons of every time of year so it is definitely worth calling to discuss. For example, June and October/November are marvellous shoulder season months, where you get amazing wildlife but for a third of the price than in the peak season with special offers and low season rates.
Tanzania family holidays in festive season are an excellent idea. December sits between the short rains which usually fall in November, and the long rains which happen in April and May.
November however is an excellent time for phenomenal end of dry season wildlife, and the rains in this month are usually just the odd afternoon shower or two. The huge benefit of travelling in November for families is that the rates across the country are slashed, meaning you can afford a premium safari for less – important if you are paying for the whole family and would like a safari lodge with a pool for the kids to splash around in. June is similarly good for reduced rates, and the parks are luscious and beautiful at this time of year too.
January and February are exceptional times to see the Great Wildebeest Migration in the southern Serengeti as they congregate for calving season. If this is on your family’s bucket list, we would strongly recommend these months.
Note that whilst the Serengeti and Ngorongoro never closes, The Selous is closed from mid-March to the end of May, as the camps are inaccessible when it had been very wet. Ruaha is also mostly closed at this time of year too.
Both October and November can be very hot in the Selous which is worth noting if you are not a fan of high temperatures.
