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Wildlife Viewing in Northern Tanzania: Seasonal Insights

Northern Tanzania, home to iconic safari destinations like the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, offers fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities year-round. However, specific periods might be more suitable depending on what you wish to experience.

1. The Great Migration (December to July):

  • Description: This is one of nature’s most spectacular events. Millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle migrate for fresh grazing and water.
  • Highlights:

Calving Season (Late January to February): In the southern Serengeti, thousands of wildebeest give birth, offering plenty of action as predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs take advantage of the abundance of young animals.

River Crossings (July to September): As the migration moves north, dramatic river crossings at the Grumeti and Mara rivers present heart-stopping action with crocodile encounters.

2. Dry Season (June to October):

  • Description: The landscapes are less dense, and animals congregate around available water sources.
  • Highlights:

Easier to spot animals as vegetation thins out.

Large herds in the central and northern Serengeti.

It is the best time for bird watching as migrant birds are present.

3. Wet Season (November to May):

  • Description: The landscapes are green and lush, and animals are dispersed.
  • Highlights:

Beautiful scenery and vibrant landscapes.

Fewer tourists, offering a more secluded experience.

Calving season attracts predators, leading to increased predator-prey interactions.

4. Year-Round Attractions:

  • Description: Some parks and areas offer consistent wildlife viewing throughout the year.
  • Highlights:

The Ngorongoro Crater is teeming with wildlife year-round due to its unique ecosystem.

Tarangire National Park is known for its elephant populations and stunning baobab trees, making it a worthwhile visit at any time.

While the above are general guidelines, it’s important to remember that nature can be unpredictable. Various factors, including rainfall patterns and animal behaviour, influence wildlife viewing. At Timon Safaris, our guides have deep knowledge and experience, ensuring guests have the best possible sightings regardless of the season. If you want to witness specific events or species, let us know, and we can guide you on the optimal time to book your safari.

Mrimba Palm Hotel

Mrimba Palm Hotel boasts a beautiful setting, offering a refreshingly serene environment from the hustle and bustle of the busy Arusha City Center. Boasting a calming silence that offers total relaxation from the busy day after a long trip to Arusha or just a peaceful time to reflect on all the marvelous experiences of the day. Our restaurant encompasses a classic catchy decor, a masterclass display of beauty with pine roofing on the inside, and beautiful tabletops and chairs from the rare and affluent Mahogany hardwood. The Mrimba Palm Restaurant offers you an amazing experience during meals; dinner, lunch, snacking, and lunch with a wide range of drinks on order.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com

Planet Lodge Arusha

Featuring an outdoor pool and restaurant, Planet Lodge is located in Arusha. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi in public areas. The African-style chalets have a private bathroom, air conditioning, and mosquito net. Extras include a telephone, towels, and linen. The Planet Lodge restaurant serves international and local cuisine. The bar offers a selection of drinks. Guests can relax by the poolside and in the lush garden while enjoying Mount Meru’s views. The lodge is a 1-hour drive from the Arusha National Park and within 48 km from the Kilimanjaro Airport. Free private parking is available on-site.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com

Karama Lodge

With pool views, Karama Lodge is situated in Arusha and has a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, a bar, a garden, and a year-round outdoor pool. Both WiFi and private parking are accessible at the lodge free of charge. There is a private bathroom with a shower in all units, along with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Guests at Karama Lodge can enjoy a buffet breakfast. Old German Boma is 5 km from the accommodation, while Njiro Complex is 6 km from the property. The lodge is a 1-hour drive from the Arusha National Park and within 48 km from the Kilimanjaro Airport. Free private parking is available on-site.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com

Gran Melia Arusha

Located in Arusha, 2.6 km from Old German Boma, Gran Melia Arusha provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can make use of a bar. The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a kettle, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a balcony, and a private bathroom with a shower. Every room is equipped with a coffee machine, while selected rooms have a kitchen with a fridge. All units in Gran Melia Arusha are equipped with bathrobes and an iPod docking station. A continental breakfast is available daily at the accommodation. Gran Melia Arusha offers 5-star accommodation with a sauna and terrace. Arusha Central Market is 3.1 km from the hotel, while the Uhuru monument is 3.1 km away.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com

Marera Valley Lodge

Marera Valley Lodge, located on the outskirts of Karatu town about midway between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater, is close to the village of Rhotia. Convenient to the main road, this elegant lodge has stunning views over the valley to the hills beyond. We look forward to your visit when we can offer you true Tanzanian hospitality and a warm welcome. Our large main building has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating areas with views of the pool and the beautiful nearby hills. Enjoy a drink or an alfresco lunch on the spacious verandah overlooking the pool. Relax in the bar and lounge area with a cozy fire in the cooler months and take your meals in the large dining room. You’ll find the welcoming reception area and gift shop here as well. The Rosemary Spa is located in a quiet corner of the garden and offers massage and other treatments for your relaxation. The cottages are set in lush tropical gardens and a walking path circumnavigates the extensive organic vegetable garden.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com