
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar ...
Plan the ultimate Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach escape with perfect timing: sunny beaches, the Great Migration, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Knowing the best time to visit Zanzibar and the Serengeti can make or break your Tanzania holiday. Aligning your trip with the right season ensures powder-white beaches, calm turquoise waters, and world-class wildlife viewing across the Serengeti plains.
☀ Dry Season (June – October): Peak Safari & Beach Weather
The dry season is widely regarded as the best time to visit Zanzibar for a beach holiday and the Serengeti for safari. Expect:
- Clear skies and warm, sunny days—perfect for swimming and snorkeling in Zanzibar.
- Superb game viewing in the Serengeti as wildlife gathers around scarce water sources.
- The dramatic Great Migration river crossings between July and September, a bucket-list event for photographers and safari enthusiasts.
🌦 Shoulder Season (Late November – Mid-December): Fewer Crowds, Great Value
This short-rain period brings refreshing showers, lush scenery, and lower prices—ideal for travellers seeking a quieter Zanzibar beach escape or a less crowded Serengeti safari.
💚 Green Season (January – March): Calving & Photography Paradise
The southern Serengeti transforms into a green wonderland as wildebeest give birth, creating dramatic predator-prey encounters. Zanzibar remains warm and inviting, making this an excellent time for honeymooners and nature lovers.
Planning Your Safari & Beach Escape
Whether it’s a Tanzania honeymoon, family safari, or group adventure, timing enhances every experience—from thrilling game drives to romantic Zanzibar sunsets.
📅 Ready to plan your dream Zanzibar beach escape and Serengeti safari? Let Maramatta Safaris create a tailor-made itinerary.
Start PlanningRecommended Safari & Beach Packages

Wildebeest migration spectacle in the Serengeti
Final Thoughts
The best time to visit Zanzibar and the Serengeti depends on your dream experience—be it the drama of the Great Migration, the serenity of quiet beaches, or lush green landscapes. Whatever the season, Tanzania offers a perfect balance of safari adventure and tropical relaxation.