
Tanzania Safari in March – The Start of the Green Season Adventure
March in Tanzania marks the beginning of the long rainy season, also known as the “green season.” Although there is an increase in rainfall, safaris in March offer unique benefits such as lush landscapes, fewer tourists, vibrant birdlife, and excellent wildlife viewing — especially for those who don’t mind occasional showers.
This guide will help you understand everything about going on a Tanzania safari in March including weather conditions, wildlife activity, what to expect, best parks to visit, costs, and packing tips.
Plan Your March Green Season Safari!
Contact Rede Tours for a vibrant Tanzania adventure!
Contact Our Safari ExpertWhy Choose a Tanzania Safari in March?
- Lush green landscapes refreshed by early rains—perfect for stunning photography.
- Fewer tourists and lower prices compared to dry season.
- Great for birdwatching — migratory birds are abundant.
- Excellent sightings of newborn animals as many species give birth around this time.
- Comfortable temperatures — not too hot due to frequent cloud cover.
- Peaceful, more intimate safari experience with less traffic on game drives.

Vibrant green landscapes in Tanzania during March
Tanzania Weather in March
- Rainfall: March is the start of the long rainy season — expect intermittent heavy showers, usually in the afternoon or evening.
- Temperature: Warm and humid; daytime averages 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F); evenings cooler but mild.
- Landscape: Vivid green scenery, rivers and waterholes replenished.
- Humidity: Higher humidity due to rains.
- Daylight: Around 12 hours of daylight for game drives.
What to Expect on Safari in March
- Wildlife: Most animals remain active despite rains; predators take advantage of thick vegetation for stalking prey.
- Migration: The Great Migration’s whereabouts vary but typically the herds are in the Serengeti’s southern and central areas or moving toward the Ndutu region.
- Birdlife: Superb birdwatching, including migratory and resident species.
- Scenery: Lush, vibrant, and blooming landscapes unlike the dry season.
- Game Viewing: Wildlife concentrates around permanent water sources.
- Road Conditions: Some dirt roads may be muddy or slippery; 4x4 vehicles are recommended.
Best Parks for a Safari in March
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Serengeti National Park
Best for: Great Migration sightings, predator activity, and diverse wildlife experiences.
March Highlights: The Serengeti, spanning 14,750 square kilometers, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for hosting the Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains. In March, the migration is typically in the southern and central Serengeti, with herds grazing on fresh grasses triggered by early rains. This season is ideal for spotting predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as they stalk prey amidst lush vegetation. The park’s diverse ecosystems, from grassy plains to acacia woodlands, support a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and over 500 bird species like ostriches and secretary birds. Activities include game drives, hot air balloon safaris offering aerial views of the migration, and visits to the Seronera River for hippo and crocodile sightings. The green season’s fewer crowds ensure a more exclusive experience, with vibrant landscapes enhancing photography opportunities.
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Ngorongoro Crater
Best for: Dense wildlife populations in a unique volcanic caldera and year-round game viewing.
March Highlights: The Ngorongoro Crater, a 260-square-kilometer natural amphitheater, is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, often called the “Eden of Africa.” Its enclosed ecosystem supports a high concentration of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhino). In March, the crater’s floor transforms into a lush green paradise, attracting grazing animals like zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles, followed by predators such as hyenas and lions. The crater’s permanent water sources, like the Ngoitokitok Spring, draw flamingos and other waterbirds, making it a birdwatcher’s haven. The green season enhances the scenic beauty, with wildflowers blooming and clear views of the crater rim. Game drives are highly productive due to the compact area, and cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages offer insights into local traditions. The crater’s accessibility remains excellent even during rains, thanks to well-maintained roads.
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Tarangire National Park
Best for: Elephant herds, iconic baobab trees, and exceptional birdwatching.
March Highlights: Tarangire, known as the “home of elephants,” boasts one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania, with herds of up to 300 roaming the park. Covering 2,850 square kilometers, its landscape is dotted with ancient baobab trees and the Tarangire River, a vital water source in March that attracts diverse wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, impalas, and predators like lions and leopards. The green season transforms the park into a lush oasis, with vibrant grasslands and seasonal swamps enhancing its scenic beauty. Over 550 bird species, such as the endemic ashy starling and yellow-collared lovebird, thrive in March, making it a prime birdwatching destination. Activities include game drives along the river, night safaris (where permitted) to spot nocturnal animals like aardvarks, and guided walking safaris to explore the park’s flora and smaller creatures. The lower tourist numbers in March ensure a tranquil experience.
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Lake Manyara National Park
Best for: Tree-climbing lions, flamingo flocks, and diverse ecosystems.
March Highlights: Lake Manyara National Park, covering 330 square kilometers, offers a compact yet diverse safari experience with its groundwater forest, alkaline lake, and acacia woodlands. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior best observed in March when they rest in acacias to escape the wet ground. The lake attracts thousands of flamingos, creating a pink spectacle, along with pelicans, storks, and other waterbirds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 400 species. The green season brings lush vegetation, enhancing sightings of elephants, hippos, giraffes, and buffalo around the lake and forest. March’s rainfall replenishes the lake, attracting migratory birds like the African spoonbill. Activities include game drives, canopy walks for a treetop perspective, and cultural tours to nearby Mto wa Mbu village. The park’s smaller size and fewer visitors in March offer an intimate safari experience with vibrant scenery.
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Ndutu (Southern Serengeti)
Best for: Great Migration calving season and predator-prey interactions.
March Highlights: Ndutu, located in the southern Serengeti and part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, is a hotspot for the Great Migration’s calving season, which often begins in late March. This region sees thousands of wildebeest calves born daily, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals, creating dramatic wildlife encounters. The area’s short-grass plains and seasonal lakes, such as Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek, become vibrant with fresh grazing in March, supporting large herds of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles. The green season’s lush landscapes enhance photography, with fewer tourists allowing for a more immersive experience. Ndutu’s unique status allows off-road driving in certain areas, enabling closer wildlife encounters. Birdwatching is also exceptional, with species like the Kori bustard and Fischer’s lovebird. Activities include game drives, photography safaris, and guided walks to explore the calving grounds and predator activity.
Safari Costs in March
March is considered off-peak or shoulder season, so safari costs are generally lower than during the dry season.
Safari Type | Approximate Cost Per Person Per Day (USD) | Accommodation Style |
---|---|---|
Budget Safari | $130 – $220 | Camping, basic lodges |
Mid-Range Safari | $250 – $400 | Comfortable lodges and camps |
Luxury Safari | $450 – $900+ | Premium lodges and tented camps |
Additional costs: international flights, park fees, guides, transfers, and tipping.
What to Pack for a March Safari
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
- Waterproof jacket or poncho for rains
- Sturdy waterproof walking shoes or boots
- Warm layer for cool mornings and evenings
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Binoculars and camera with rain protection
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medications and first aid kit
Sample 7-Day March Safari Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
- Day 2: Tarangire National Park game drive
- Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater safari
- Day 4: Drive to Serengeti National Park
- Day 5: Serengeti game drives – migration viewing
- Day 6: Full day in Serengeti
- Day 7: Return to Arusha for departure
Final Thoughts
A Tanzania safari in March is perfect for travelers who enjoy nature’s lush green beauty, fewer crowds, and great value safaris. Despite the occasional rains, game viewing remains excellent, and the birdlife is spectacular. March offers a peaceful, authentic safari experience with the added beauty of rejuvenated landscapes.
Why Choose Rede Tours and Safaris?
Rede Tours and Safaris specializes in Tanzania safaris for March 2025–2027, offering expertly guided tours, 4x4 vehicles suited for green season conditions, and tailored itineraries to maximize your wildlife and cultural experiences.
Rede Tours and Safaris
Highlights: Expert local guides, 4x4 vehicles for green season, cultural visits, budget to luxury options.
Cost Range: $130–$900+ per day per person.
Inclusions: Game drives, park fees, meals, guided tours, accommodation.
How to Book Your March Safari
Join a Tanzania safari in March with Rede Tours and Safaris for an unforgettable green season adventure! Book your tour by contacting us via:
- Company Email: info@redetoursandsafaris.com
- Company Gmail: redetours2005@gmail.com
- Contact Person: nalisis@redetoursandsafaris.com
- Call and WhatsApp: +255 676 063 791
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