Should I travel to Tanzania in October?
Imagine: herds of elephants around Tarangire’s rivers, predators waiting by waterholes, and a Serengeti alive with wildebeest finishing their river crossings. All of this, with a little more breathing room on game drives and in lodges.
October is the sweet spot between Tanzania’s busy dry season and the start of the short rains. While July and August attract the biggest crowds, October still offers all the wildlife magic — but with far more availability and often lower prices.
Why October is a Hidden Safari Gem in Tanzania
October is the kind of month that savvy travelers whisper about — because it has all the magic of peak safari season without the hustle and bustle. Herds of wildebeest and zebras are still roaming the Serengeti, elephants are gathered in Tarangire, and big cats are never far behind.
The dry season is at its peak, so wildlife naturally congregates around the few remaining water sources, making sightings easier and more dramatic. What’s more, many lodges still have availability and often lower rates compared to July and August, so you can enjoy luxury experiences at friendlier prices. Fewer safari vehicles in the parks mean you’ll often feel like you’ve got front-row seats to nature’s greatest show — just you, your guide, and the animals. October really is the perfect mix of great game viewing, comfortable weather, and more relaxed travel.
Our most popular Tanzanian safari itineraries in October
Not sure where to start? Discover our handpicked itineraries designed for October travel. From quick getaways to extended safaris with a Zanzibar finale, these trips show you the very best of Tanzania this month.
- From $570 USD*
4-day Tanzania safari extension: Nyerere National Park
- From $1,588 USD*
7 days safari
Visit two of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders
- From $7,424 USD*
8 Days Tanzania Diamond Luxury – Flying Safari!
- From $2,758 USD*
9 days Safari Mikumi + Ruaha + Nyerere
- From $2,516 USD*
13 Days Safari + Zanzibar holiday
- From $605 USD*
10 days Zanzibar
Find out what paradise looks like
- From $2,427 USD*
12 days honeymoon Tanzania and Zanzibar
- From $338 USD*
6 Days Zanzibar Island (extension to a safari)
Weather in Tanzania in October
October sits right at the end of Tanzania’s long dry season, and that means plenty of sunshine, blue skies, and warm days. Temperatures average between 25–30°C (77–86°F), which makes for ideal safari conditions — hot enough for adventure but not unbearably so. Nights and early mornings are cooler, which adds a refreshing start to your game drives.
Rain is minimal throughout the month, with the first hints of the short rains only arriving towards the very end of October (and even then, showers are usually brief and refreshing). This makes October one of the most comfortable months to combine safaris with a few relaxing days on Zanzibar’s beaches.
Wildlife to Spot in October
Now you might be wondering, what about wildlife spotting? Don’t you worry…there is plenty to see!
Serengeti National Park
The Great Migration is still in action during October. Large herds of wildebeest and zebras linger in the northern Serengeti, and depending on the year, you might still catch dramatic Mara River crossings. Even if the crossings are winding down, predators remain active and plentiful, waiting for the weakened animals to pass through.
Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is spectacular year-round, but October offers excellent visibility and fantastic wildlife activity. Lions, elephants, and endangered black rhinos are all easier to spot as the open landscapes remain golden and dry. With fewer tourists, your crater experience feels more intimate.
Tarangire National Park
October is one of the best times to visit Tarangire, often called “the land of the giants.” Enormous elephant herds gather around the Tarangire River, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. Alongside elephants, you’ll see giraffes, buffalo, and predators lurking nearby.
Bonus Wildlife Encounters
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Hippos wallowing in shrinking pools
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Crocodiles sunning along riverbanks
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Early migratory birds arriving — paradise for birdwatchers
Your ideal Accommodation in Tanzania
Find the perfect place to stay — from luxury tented camps near the Serengeti to luxury lodges in Tarangire. With great October availability, you’ll enjoy comfort, style, and breathtaking views right in the heart of nature.
Top Reasons to Travel in October
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Great Value: Shoulder-season rates often mean better deals on lodges and camps compared to the peak months of July and August.
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Availability: More options for accommodation — even at the last minute — so you can be spontaneous.
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Outstanding Wildlife: With water sources drying up, animals are concentrated, making sightings more frequent and exciting.
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Perfect Weather: Sunshine-filled days without the intense heat of later months.
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Balanced Travel Flow: Less crowded parks give you more time and space with the wildlife.
If you’re the kind of traveler who wants the full safari experience but doesn’t like following the crowds, October is your sweet spot.
Combine Safari & Zanzibar in October
A safari is just the beginning of your October adventure — and Zanzibar is the perfect ending. After days of thrilling game drives, swap your safari jeep for a beach lounger with turquoise ocean views.
October in Zanzibar is warm, tropical, and sunny with average highs of 28–30°C (82–86°F). The waters are calm and clear, perfect for snorkeling and diving among coral reefs. Spice farms are in full swing, offering aromatic tours of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. And in Stone Town, you’ll find winding alleys, bustling markets, and rooftop restaurants where you can soak up the island’s rich culture.
With fewer international visitors in October, you’ll often feel like you’ve got whole stretches of beach to yourself. It’s the ideal month to blend safari excitement with barefoot relaxation.
FAQs About October in Tanzania
Here are our most commonly asked questions about traveling to Tanzania in October:
Will the rains affect my safari in October?
Not really. October is still part of the dry season, with only the occasional shower toward the very end of the month.
Is October good for photography?
Yes! The golden tones of the dry season, clear skies, and concentrated wildlife create stunning photo opportunities.
Do I need to book far in advance?
October offers more availability than July and August, but it’s still smart to book early to secure the best lodges.
Exciting Activities in Tanzania
October is full of adventure! Go on thrilling game drives, witness the Great Migration, visit Maasai villages, or unwind on Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches. The mix of safari and culture makes every day unforgettable.
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