The Magic Of A Green Safari In Tanzania
When most people imagine a safari in Tanzania they picture dry golden grasslands and the sunny dry season. But there’s more than that, there’s is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered, the green season safari. From March to May Tanzania undergoes a breath taking transformation as the rains bring life to the land, turning it into a vibrant paradise. For those who know the green season is often their favourite time to travel in Tanzania.
In this Article we uncover why exploring Tanzania during the green season offers a truly unique adventure
What makes a Green Safari Special?
- Fewer crowds, More Intimate Safari Experiences
One of the most compelling reasons of travelling during the low season is the peace and exclusivity it offers. Picture yourself in the endless plains of Serengeti, Spotting lions and leopards all by yourself, no rush no crowds just you and the wild. Unlike the peak dry season (June-October) when popular parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater can feel crowded with tourists. Lodges and camps also operate at lower capacity, allowing for personalized service, better prices with relaxed atmosphere. The green season lets you connect deeply with nature in a way that not simply possible when parks are full of tourists.
- Baby animals everywhere
During the green season is the time for new beginnings in the wild, transforming the parks into nature’s most heart-warming nursery. A safari in wet season is a great time to see the still unsteady wildebeest calves or the cute baby lions playing around. Also you will spot zebra foals taking their first steps and baby elephants struggling to gain control of ther trunks
- Photographic conditions are ideal
For photographers, Tanzania green season offers a unique paradise memory. Though because its rainy season it may seem inconvenient but they transform into lush emerald landscapes replacing dusty plains and creating a vibrant backdrop that makes animal colours pop. The rain breathes life into the savannah turning plains into rolling green hills
- There are birds everywhere for bird lovers to enjoy
This is the best time to spot colourful species. Up to 200 migrant species from all corners visit during this season making it a biding paradise. Storks, kingfishers and raptors escape winter to feast on Tanzania’s insect explosion. Also flamingo number peak as algae blooms in lakes like Lake Manyara national park and Lake Natron. Resident birds like lilac breastes rollers and carmine Bee eaters display vibrant mating plumage. It’s the best time to visit Lake Manyara national Park, Selous Game Reserve now known as Nyerere National Park and Arusha National park.
Whether you’re a dedicated birdwatcher or just appreciate the occasional sighting, the green season can reward you either way. Who knows you might just find your next hobby.
The Downsides of a green safari
Unpredictable weather
The green season is characterized by substantial downpours that can last for hours. This causes difficulty for safari travellers. The roads become muddy and some completely impassable
More Insects
Due to heavy rains and standing water risk of Malaria is high. You will also have to deal with biting bugs and tsetse flies during your stay
Remote Areas less Accessible
During the green season especially (April and May) one of the biggest challenges is inaccessibility to many remote areas. The heavy rains turn roads into muddy and slippery and roads become impassable even for 4WD vehicle. While the landscapes turn beautifully greenish, the challenge of winding through roads can affect the whole tour.
Some lodges and camps may also close temporarily due to poor access. Due to this reasons, tour operators steer clear of the more remote areas during the green season.
If you’re drawn to rich birdlife, fewer tourists, more affordable rates and dramatic scenery the green season should be your best time to visit Tanzania. But if you prefer dry roads, access to remote areas, blue skies and sunshine then the dry season might reach your expectations. Either way, Tanzania is magical all year round in its own way.
