Tanzania Safari in August: Prime Time for Wildlife & The Great Migration 2025, 2026 & 2027
August is one of the best months to go on safari in Tanzania. Nestled in the heart of the dry season, August offers superb wildlife sightings, spectacular landscapes, and an exceptional opportunity to witness the iconic Great Wildebeest Migration in full swing. With clear blue skies and crisp air, it’s a favorite month for travelers seeking thrilling safari adventures in East Africa.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about a Tanzania safari in August — including weather, wildlife, migration movements, best parks, activities, packing tips, and travel advice.
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Contact Our Safari ExpertWhy Visit Tanzania in August?
- Peak dry season with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures.
- Great Migration action: The herds gather and start river crossings.
- Excellent wildlife viewing: Animals concentrate around water sources.
- Clear, sunny days and cool evenings: Ideal safari weather.
- Popular travel month: Early booking is essential.
- Spectacular photographic opportunities: Golden landscapes and active wildlife.
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August’s golden plains teem with wildlife
Tanzania Weather in August
- Rainfall: Virtually none, dry season in full effect.
- Temperature: Daytime averages 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F); nights can be chilly, dropping to 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
- Landscape: Dry, golden grasslands with sparse vegetation—perfect for spotting animals.
The Great Migration in August
August marks a critical period of the Great Wildebeest Migration. The massive herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles are primarily located in the northern Serengeti, particularly around the Mara River. This is the peak time for witnessing the dramatic and adrenaline-pumping river crossings, where predators lurk, and nature’s raw survival drama unfolds.
Key areas for Migration viewing in August:
- Mara River crossings – Famous for wildebeest attempting to cross the crocodile-infested waters.
- Northern Serengeti (Kogatende, Lamai, and Mara Triangle) – High predator activity and huge herds.
- Grumeti River – Another important river crossing site.
Mara River crossings in August
Wildlife Highlights in August
- Large concentrations of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle.
- High predator activity: lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas.
- Elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and other Big Five throughout the parks.
- Birdlife: Resident birds are active; migratory birds start arriving toward late August.
- Ngorongoro Crater remains an excellent spot for year-round wildlife viewing.
Best Parks to Visit in August
1. Serengeti National Park
Best for: The Great Migration, predator sightings, and open plains.
August Highlights: Epic Mara River crossings and abundant game.
2. Ngorongoro Crater
Best for: Compact, high-density wildlife viewing.
August Highlights: Big Five and excellent photographic opportunities.
3. Tarangire National Park
Best for: Large elephant herds and baobab trees.
August Highlights: Dry season concentration of animals near water.
4. Lake Manyara National Park
Best for: Tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife.
August Highlights: Beautiful dry-season scenery.
5. Masai Mara (Kenya)
Best for: Optional extension to witness migration continuation across the border.
August Highlights: Continuation of the Great Migration.
Safari Activities in August
- Early morning and late afternoon game drives
- Hot air balloon safaris over the Serengeti
- Birdwatching and nature walks (where permitted)
- Cultural visits to Maasai villages
- Photography safaris focusing on the migration spectacle
- Optional walking safaris in Tarangire and Ngorongoro
Accommodation & Pricing in August
- High season – book lodges and camps 6–12 months in advance.
- Lodges near Mara River and northern Serengeti command premium prices.
- Mid-range and budget options fill quickly.
- Hot air balloon safaris are popular and should be booked early.
What to Pack for Your August Safari
- Layered clothing (warm jackets for early mornings and evenings)
- Neutral-colored safari clothes (avoid bright colors)
- Comfortable hiking boots or walking shoes
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Binoculars and camera with extra batteries and memory cards
- Reusable water bottle and insect repellent
- Personal medications and basic first aid kit
Travel Tips for Tanzania Safari in August
- Start your game drives early to catch animals when they’re most active.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring a good camera and lenses for wildlife photography.
- Respect park rules and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
- Book all accommodation and internal flights well in advance.
Explore Our August Safari Packages
Rede Tours and Safaris crafts unforgettable August safaris with private 4x4 Land Cruisers, expert guides, and customizable itineraries to match your style and budget, focusing on the Great Migration’s Mara River crossings and peak wildlife viewing.
7-Day Private Migration Safari – $3,200 per person
Starting Point: Arusha
This 7-day private safari focuses on the Great Migration in Northern Serengeti, including Mara River crossings, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara. Enjoy game drives, luxury or mid-range accommodations, and expert-guided tours tailored to your preferences.
Highlights: Mara River crossings, Big Five, golden landscapes, predator action.
Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Lodge or Kogatende Tented Camp.
5-Day Budget Migration Safari – $2,000 per person
Starting Point: Arusha
Explore Northern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater on this 5-day budget-friendly safari, with shared game drives focusing on Mara River crossings and abundant wildlife, staying in budget accommodations.
Highlights: Wildebeest river crossings, predator activity, dry-season scenery.
Accommodation: Serengeti Campsite or similar.
4-Day Luxury Tarangire & Ngorongoro Safari – $2,500 per person
Starting Point: Arusha
Experience large elephant herds in Tarangire and the Big Five in Ngorongoro Crater on this 4-day luxury safari, with private 4x4 game drives and premium accommodations.
Highlights: Elephant herds, Big Five, baobab landscapes.
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or Tarangire Safari Lodge.
Why Choose Rede Tours and Safaris?
Rede Tours and Safaris crafts personalized August safaris with expert guides, comfortable 4x4 vehicles, and flexible itineraries. Whether you seek the thrill of Mara River crossings, luxury lodges, or budget camps, we ensure a seamless, unforgettable adventure tailored to your dreams.
Rede Tours and Safaris
Highlights: Custom itineraries, expert local guides, 4x4 vehicles with panoramic windows, seamless airport transfers, prime migration viewing.
Cost Range: $950 – $2,250 per person (based on package and duration).
Inclusions: Transfers, lodging, game drives, meals, park fees, guided tours.
Is August a Good Time for a Tanzania Safari?
Yes! August is a fantastic time for:
- Mara River crossings in Northern Serengeti
- Prime wildlife viewing with animals concentrated around water
- Clear skies and golden landscapes for photography
- Thrilling predator-prey interactions
If you want to witness the Great Migration’s dramatic river crossings, abundant wildlife, and Tanzania’s golden landscapes, August is the perfect month for your safari adventure.
