Exploring Tanzania Wildlife in The Rainy Season
Exploring Tanzania Wildlife in The Rainy Season : Not everyone is interested in visiting Tanzania in the dry season. Sometimes, you may not have free time in the dry season. If you have any reason that restricts you from coming to Tanzania, relax we have you covered. The rainy season is the best alternative to the dry season. In this article, we will cover a wildlife safari in the rainy season.
When is the rainy season?
Tanzania experiences two rainy seasons: the short rainy season and the long rainy season. The short rainy season is from November to December, while the long rainy season is from March to May. Between these two seasons is a short dry season, from January to February.
Why you should visit Tanzania in the rainy season?
There are good reasons for you to explore Tanzania’s wildlife in the wet season. Here are a few of them.
Low budget
The rainy season receives a small number of visitors. The price of different services goes down to attract many clients. Lodges and camps offer services at a low cost.
Abundant birdlife
Many birds breed in the rainy season. Tanzania is also a breeding site for many migratory birds, including the Eurasian species. Birds stay close to their eggs or newly hatched young ones in the nests.
No crowds
Fewer tourists show up in Tanzania’s wildlife destinations in the rainy season. This is an advantage as you will have enough space to explore the wildlife. You don’t have to drive far away to avoid crowds this season.
Green vegetation
The vegetation is flourishing during the rainy season. Deciduous woodlands that are usually thorny in the dry season turn into lush forests. The verdant grass plains become evergreen than you can imagine.
Travel essentials for a rainy season safari
When you are packing for a rainy season safari, include waterproof items. Don’t forget to bring a rain poncho, quick-drying clothes, waterproof boots, a hat, a rain jacket, and other accessories. Insects become abundant in the rainy season, so you should not forget insect repellents.
Where to go for a rainy season safari in Tanzania?
Tanzania has a dozens of wildlife destinations. It is up to you to choose the best destination for your rainy season safari. When selecting such destinations, always consider the available lodging options.
Serengeti National Park
Serengeti’s endless plains turn into green grass-rich plains. Grazers like wildebeests, zebras, buffalos, and antelopes spread over the plains. This park turns to be astonishing with a beautiful scenery.
The wildebeests are in the southern Serengeti. Between February and March, they give birth to over 500,000 calves as the pastures are readily available. Predators like hyenas, lions, and leopards migrate to this part and try to take advantage of the newly born calves. There are many birds in the park at this time. Morning game drives rewards you with active birds and wildlife.
The Serengeti has wide range of accommodations: luxury and budget options. A few lodges cease operations in Serengeti National Park, but there are still many options of where to stay. The grass is tall, so it may be difficult to spot wild animals.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
This World Heritage Site becomes very scenic during the rainy season. Wildlife becomes readily available in open plains, not to forget the beautiful singing birds.
The Ngorongoro Crater, the masterpiece of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area harbors non-migratory wild animals. We recommend to include Ngorongoro Crater in your rainy season safari.
Lodging options for this region are in the Ngorongoro Highlands and most of them operate throughout the year.
Tarangire National Park
Visit Tarangire National Park to see diverse wildlife and its characteristic large herds of elephants. The spectacular landscapes of Tarangire, dotted with giant baobab trees appears lush and untouched in the rainy season.
The mighty Tarangire River is full of water and flows gently, as ghosts of hippos emerge to seek for sunlight. Tarangire has record of about 550 bird species. Migratory species begin to settle in November and from February to May, they are in their breeding season. They stay close to their nests to protect and feed their young ones.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is another excellent destination for Tanzania wildlife safari in the rainy season. The soda lake has high water level. Therefore, you can canoe this lake to explore its rich aquatic life. The tree-climbing lions makes this park a traveler’s favorite.
Lake Manyara’s diverse wildlife and lush forests dotted with baobab trees thrive in the rainy season. You have a lot of things to learn on your safari. The park also has readily available accommodation options.
Selous Game Reserve, Mikumi National Park, and Ruaha National Park are excellent wildlife sanctuaries, but have a few accommodation options.
The rainy season in Tanzania is the perfect time to explore the premier wildlife destinations without breaking the bank. You also explore the wilderness exclusively as there are a few tourists. Moreover, you enjoy the free space in the lodges and superb services at low cost. Consider planning a safari in this season. Reach out to Focus East Africa Safari travel specialist for more clarification.
