In Northern Tanzania, the abundance and location of certain wildlife can vary based on the season and other environmental factors. Here’s what you can expect:
– The Great Migration: One of the most sought-after spectacles in Africa, the Great Migration involves over a million wildebeest, zebras, and antelope moving in a cyclical pattern through the Serengeti in search of fresh grasslands. The timing and path can fluctuate, but generally:
- December to March: Wildebeest calving season in the Southern Serengeti.
- April to June: The herds move northwards in a mass exodus, often crossing the perilous Grumeti River.
- July to October: The herds continue moving, with dramatic Mara River crossings as they enter and exit the Masai Mara in Kenya.
- November: They start heading back to the Southern Serengeti
– Bird Migration: Northern Tanzania is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially between November and April when migrant birds from Europe and Asia join the resident species. This is the best time to see many bird species in the region.
– Big Cats: Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are resident animals and can be seen yearly. However, they often follow the migratory herds, so your chances of witnessing hunting activities may increase during the Great Migration.
– Calving Season: Apart from wildebeests, many antelopes and other herbivores have calving seasons between late November and March. This attracts a lot of predators and can result in dramatic wildlife interactions.
– Elephants and Giraffes: These iconic animals are generally present all year round but may move to specific regions based on water and food availability.
– Rhinos: Seeing the critically endangered black rhinos is a rare treat. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the few places where sightings are more likely, though it still needs to be guaranteed. Their presence doesn’t vary significantly with the season.
It’s essential to understand that while these patterns are typical, nature can be unpredictable. Wildlife sightings’ exact timing and locations can vary based on rainfall, environmental changes, and other factors.
Regardless of when you visit, Northern Tanzania offers a rich tapestry of wildlife experiences, and our expert guides at Timon Safaris will always do their best to ensure you witness the magic of the African wilderness.