Tanzania Safari in July

Experience the captivating wonders of Tanzania in July as the landscape transforms, and wildlife thrives amidst peak tourist activity. Discover the allure of Serengeti's migration, Tarangire's diverse ecosystems, and the scenic beauty of Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara.

Let us first look at the pros and cons of visiting in July quickly, and then we will address aspects like climate and accommodations, and look at each park in the Northern Circuit and Zanzibar in detail:

Pros:

1. Dry Conditions: July offers dry weather with reduced humidity, making it comfortable for safari adventures.

2. Enhanced Wildlife Visibility: Thinning vegetation during the dry season improves wildlife visibility, making it easier to spot various animals including big cats, giraffes, zebras, elephants, and more. Many animals, including elephants, wildebeests, Elands, and Oryxes, migrate towards rivers and swamps in Tarangire, also adding to improved wildlife visbility.

3. Wildebeest Migration: Witnessing the ongoing Wildebeest migration, especially the Grumeti river crossings, is a thrilling highlight during this month.

4. Ideal Beach Weather: For those considering island getaways, Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia Island offer sunny beaches, perfect temperatures, and opportunities for various water activities like diving and snorkeling.

5. Bright and Sunny: Zanzibar is bright and sunny in July, offering a pleasant atmosphere for beachgoers.

Cons:

1. Increased Costs: Due to peak tourist activity, accommodations fill up quickly, and prices are higher compared to other months.

2. Crowded Tourism: The peak season results in increased tourist crowds, especially around popular attractions like the Grumeti river crossings, leading to potential crowded safari experiences.

3. Windiness: Zanzibar experiences windy conditions in July, which may affect some water activities, although certain regions may have calmer seas.

Let us now see what Tanzania looks like in July in detail.

Climate and Landscape

With the onset of July, Tanzania gets even dryer. The landscape transforms as vegetation further thins out, roads become dustier, and dust devils add to the spectacle. The country experiences increased tourist activity during this period due to school and college vacations going on across the globe, resulting in higher costs of services and activities. On a typical day, temperatures range between 14°C / 57°F to 28°C / 82°F. Nights and early mornings are colder, offering pleasant daytime conditions.

Accommodations and Crowds

July witnesses peak tourist activity; therefore, accommodations fill up quickly. To secure preferred lodges, early reservations are recommended. The prices are pushed up during this time, however. Budget camping remains a viable option for those wishing to spend less, but even camping rates are higher compared to the low season.

Serengeti

In the Serengeti, columns of Wildebeest migration remain on the move. Early July, you will find them in the West Serengeti and/or North-West Serengeti, by mid-July most of them reach the North-West region, and by late July, they spread across North-West Serengeti and the Masai Mara region in Kenya. The Grumeti river crossings become a highlight, offering thrilling encounters between wildebeests, crocodiles, and lions. Accommodations close to the river fill rapidly during this peak season, emphasising the need for advance bookings.

Additionally, Central Serengeti in July is a prime location for wildlife enthusiasts. The famous Seronera Valley in Central Serengeti is known for its rich biodiversity, especially the presence of big cats, earning it the name of the Big Cat Capital. Alongside the impressive population of big cats, Central Serengeti is also home to a variety of other animals such as giraffes, zebras, elands, hippos, topis, hartebeests, baboons, and more. The thinning vegetation during this time enhances wildlife visibility, making it easier to spot these animals in their natural habitat. While rhinos and leopards can be trickier to find, special tours are conducted in the Moru region for rhino sightings, adding to the adventure and excitement of exploring Central Serengeti in July.

To check out North Serengeti tours, click here.

To check out Western Serengeti Tours, click here.

To ckeck out Central Serengeti tours in July, click here.

To understand the movement of the Great Migration better, ckeck out our article here.

To check out our popular migration itineraries, click here.

Tarangire

Tarangire experiences a migration of wildlife towards rivers and swamps as other watering holes dry up. As a result, the population of elephants, wildebeests, Elands, and Oryxes goes up within the boundary of the park. Access to different park regions becomes easier, providing varied tour experiences. Regions of the park like Silale Swamps, Lemiyon Triangle, Matete woodlands, and Kitibong Hill are al, preferred by different animals so exploring them offers diverse wildlife encounters, from leopards camouflaged in the woodlands to prides of lions chilling close to the Silale Swamps, and Buffaloes grazing close to the Kitibong Hill.

Exploring the park in the middle of the day would be an even more rewarding experience as the higher temperatures draws out animals to water bodies, further drawing out predators in search of food.

To check out our Tarangire tours, click here.

Ngorongoro

Ngorongoro, akin to other parks, provides breathtaking views with a high concentration of wildlife. As vegetation thins, exploring various sections of the crater becomes more rewarding as you will be able to spot the wildlife with ease.

To check out our Ngorongoro tours, click here.

Lake Manyara

Similar to the rest of the parks, Lake Manyara undergoes a change in vegetation cover as well, and draws animals in towards its limited water bodies. With wildlife converging around these water bodies, spotting your favorite animals will become much easier. However, Lake Manyara’s varied, stunning ecosystems of flora won’t be as lush and scenic as it is during the Wet season.

To check out our Lake Manyara tours, click here.

Island Getaways:

Zanzibar

July offers an ideal time for a Zanzibar holiday with sunny beaches and perfect temperatures. While the island is rather windy in this month, it provides opportunities for various water activities. You can chill on the white sandy beaches, enjoy the breeze on the shores, go diving to explore the reefs, or head towards the Paje region for wind sports. Nungwi and Kendwa on the other hand will have calmer seas. Since Cloves are also harvested in July, you will come across piles of them drying in the sun and the air thick with their fragrance. All in all, Zanzibar will be bright, sunny and windy.

Pemba

Pemba Island won't be as crowded as Zanzibar due to its remote location, offering sunny beaches with much water sports like diving and snorkeling to engage in. If you seek a tranquil experience away from the crowds, Pemba Island might be the perfect destination.

Mafia Island

Similar to Pemba, Mafia Island provides a remote and tranquil experience. Enjoy warm sunny beaches and clear blue waters with coral colonies to explore. Engage in water activities like diving and snorkeling to make the most of the island's serene ambiance in July.

Important Note: Exercise caution during wind activities if seas get too rough.

To understand the difference between Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia in detail, click here.

Southern Circuit

In July, Tanzania's Southern Circuit unveils a tapestry of natural wonders and wildlife experiences amidst the embrace of the dry season. The skies stretch out in a seamless azure, offering a canvas for sun-drenched adventures. With temperatures ranging from the cool embrace of the low 70s Fahrenheit in the mornings to the balmy highs in the upper 80s Fahrenheit, each day unfolds in a symphony of warmth and light.

As nature's rhythm beats on, the parks within this circuit paint a vibrant picture. The thinning bush invites curious gazes, promising glimpses of elusive wildlife. Water, a precious lifeline, becomes a stage where animals gather, creating a theater of survival and spectacle. Predators, sharpened by necessity, prowl with intent, seeking out the vulnerable and the thirsty. In the air, a flurry of wings marks the passage of migratory birds, joining resident avian wonders in a chorus of life.

For visitors, the Southern Circuit in July offers a symphony of experiences. Classic game drives reveal the untamed beauty of Mikumi National Park, where lions roam and elephants saunter majestically. The Rufiji River in Selous Game Reserve beckons with its secrets, promising encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of birdlife on tranquil boat safaris. Adventurers seeking intimacy with nature can partake in walking safaris amidst the rugged terrain of Udzungwa National Park or embark on a quest to meet chimpanzees in Gombe Stream National Park.

As with any journey, there are nuances to embrace. Evenings bring a chill, a reminder of nature's dualities. Dust, a testament to the dry season's grip, dances in the air, adding a gritty charm to the landscape. Yet, amidst these subtleties, the Southern Circuit in July stands as a gem, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters, vibrant landscapes, and moments of awe-inspiring connection with the natural world.

To understand in detail how all the Tanzanian safari circuits differ from each other, check out our article here.

Western Circuit

July brings a serene charm to Tanzania's western circuit, encompassing Gombe Stream National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park. As the dry season unfolds, clear skies dominate the landscape, offering a perfect backdrop for exploring the untamed beauty of these lesser-known gems.

The weather in July is mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging from the low 70s Fahrenheit to the high 80s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Nights can be cooler, reminding visitors to pack warm layers for evening activities.

One of the highlights of this region during July is the enhanced wildlife viewing opportunities. With the thinning of the forest canopy due to minimal rainfall, spotting wildlife becomes easier, especially around water sources. Chimpanzees, the charismatic inhabitants of these parks, are often seen near streams and rivers, providing captivating moments for wildlife enthusiasts.

Activities in Gombe Stream National Park revolve around chimpanzee trekking, offering a chance to witness these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. Mahale Mountains National Park, on the other hand, offers a unique experience with boat safaris on Lake Tanganyika, where visitors can observe chimpanzees along the shoreline and marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

While chimpanzee encounters steal the spotlight, the parks are also home to diverse birdlife and other wildlife species, adding to the allure of the safari experience. The tranquil ambiance of these parks, coupled with fewer crowds compared to other popular circuits, creates a sense of exclusivity and immersion in nature.

Exploring the Mahale Mountains on foot unveils hidden wonders, from cascading waterfalls to panoramic viewpoints that showcase the untouched beauty of western Tanzania. Each moment spent in these parks during July is a testament to the harmony between humans and nature, offering a retreat into the wild that is both enriching and unforgettable.

Our July itinerary exploring Tanzania's iconic parks, from Tarangire to Serengeti and Ngorongoro, has garnered immense popularity for several compelling reasons. July falls within Tanzania's dry season, ensuring optimal weather conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. This period coincides with the great migration, a natural spectacle where vast herds of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River, creating dramatic scenes of survival and abundance.

The itinerary carefully balances game drives, allowing guests to witness diverse ecosystems, from Tarangire's baobab-dotted landscapes to the Serengeti's endless plains and the Ngorongoro Crater's enclosed haven. Each day brings new adventures, whether it's tracking predators, witnessing river crossings, or marveling at the crater's biodiversity.

Additionally, July offers prime opportunities for encountering the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and hippos, among others. The inclusion of picnic lunches amidst nature's splendor adds a touch of adventure and serenity to each day's exploration.

Our guests appreciate the seamless transitions between parks, ensuring a comprehensive safari experience without the hassle of long-distance travel. Moreover, the comfort and quality of accommodations, coupled with expert guides and personalized service, elevate this itinerary to an unforgettable journey through Tanzania's wilderness.

With July being a less crowded time compared to peak season, travelers can enjoy a more intimate wildlife experience while still witnessing nature's grandeur at its finest. From thrilling game drives to tranquil moments by the Hippo pool, this itinerary embodies the essence of an authentic African safari, making it a top choice for discerning travelers seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, and lifelong memories in Tanzania's most renowned parks.

To understand in detail how all the Tanzanian safari circuits differ from each other, check out our article here.

July - Peak Season Pricing

July marks the beginning of the peak tourist season in Tanzania, and as a result, accommodations do not typically offer discounts during this month. With increased demand for lodges in popular parks, prices remain at their original rates. Travellers seeking to experience the stunning wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania should plan accordingly, and it is advisable to book in advance.

Popular 7 Day Itinerary in July

To help you better understand what our safaris look like in July, we have presented below one of our most popular 7 Day safari tour in July.

This safari itinerary is particularly popular in July due to several compelling reasons. July is prime time for witnessing the Great Migration in the Northern Serengeti, specifically around the Mara River. During this period, hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the river, facing the dangers of swift currents and lurking crocodiles. This dramatic and awe-inspiring event is a highlight for any safari-goer, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. The weather in July is also ideal, as it falls within Tanzania’s dry season, providing pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. These conditions make the wildlife more visible as animals gather around the few remaining water sources. The itinerary covers diverse regions of the Serengeti, from the central Seronera area known for its abundant wildlife and scenic kopjes to the northern Kogatende region, ensuring a rich and varied safari experience. Additionally, the Ngorongoro Crater remains lush and teeming with wildlife, offering a chance to see a high density of animals in a relatively small area. Overall, the combination of witnessing the Great Migration, enjoying favorable weather, and exploring diverse landscapes makes this safari itinerary highly attractive in July.

Day 1 - Arusha to Central Serengeti

Your safari adventure begins at 8 AM with a pick-up from your hotel in Arusha. You’ll embark on a 240 km journey to Serengeti National Park, a drive of approximately six hours. The Serengeti, meaning "endless plains" in the local language, offers breathtaking views of vast grasslands merging with the horizon. Covering 14,763 square kilometers, it’s home to the renowned "Big 5" (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, and leopard) and the beautiful Impala. The central Serengeti, known as the Seronera area, is rich in wildlife due to the Seronera River, which attracts diverse species. Notable features include the Serengeti kopjes, granite boulders that provide shelter to various flora and fauna. Enjoy a picnic lunch during your day-long game drive, exploring the area and its abundant wildlife. The day concludes with a hearty dinner and a restful night at your accommodation.

Day 2 - Central Serengeti to North Serengeti

After a leisurely breakfast, you can either set off on a game drive at 9 AM with a packed lunch or depart early at 6 AM for a morning game drive, returning for breakfast before heading north. The drive to the northern Serengeti, specifically the Kogatende region, offers views of changing terrain from grasslands to hilly landscapes. This area is rich in resident wildlife, including zebras, topi, gazelles, buffaloes, leopards, and lions. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to witness the mild action from resident game. A picnic lunch will be provided during the game drive. Upon arrival, you may have the opportunity to spend a few hours by the Mara River. The day ends with dinner and a night’s rest at your accommodation.

Days 3 & 4 - North Serengeti

For the next two days, you can either enjoy a relaxed breakfast followed by full-day game drives starting at 9 AM with packed lunches, or embark on early morning drives at 6 AM, returning for breakfast before a later game drive. From mid-June to September, this region offers the dramatic wildebeest river crossings at the Mara River, where you can witness the perilous journey of thousands of wildebeest as they navigate the crocodile-infested waters. The northern Serengeti, including the Lobo Valley, offers diverse landscapes and excellent game viewing, especially of big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. During the full-day game drives, you will enjoy picnic lunches amidst nature. Each day concludes with dinner and relaxation at your accommodation.

Day 5 - North Serengeti to Central Serengeti

After breakfast, you can depart for game drives at 9 AM with packed lunches or start early at 6 AM. The drive back to Central Serengeti offers enroute game viewing through varied terrains, including the scenic hill country and the woodlands of the Lobo area. The Seronera area, rich in wildlife due to the Seronera River, provides excellent sightings of lion prides. Enjoy a picnic lunch during your drive and continue exploring the region’s diverse wildlife. The day ends with dinner and a night’s rest at your accommodation.

Day 6 - Central Serengeti to Ngorongoro

Begin the day with a morning game drive in Serengeti National Park, where you can soak in the early morning sights and sounds of the wilderness. Later, depart for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with a picnic lunch en route. Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest collapsed volcanic crater, is surrounded by a ring of extinct volcanoes and dotted with watering holes that shelter around 30,000 animals. Explore this unique ecosystem and its abundant wildlife. The day concludes with dinner and a restful night at your accommodation.

Day 7 - Ngorongoro Crater Tour to Arusha

Your final safari day starts early with a quick breakfast before descending into the Ngorongoro Crater at 6:30 AM for a five-hour game drive. The crater, teeming with wildlife including elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, hippos, hyenas, cheetahs, and lions, offers remarkable viewing opportunities. Capture these incredible moments with your camera as you explore this diverse ecosystem. After a picnic lunch at the Hippo Pool, you will begin your ascent from the crater and embark on a four-hour drive back to Arusha. Arrive by 6 PM, where you will be dropped off at your preferred location. Bid farewell to your safari team with cherished memories of an incredible adventure.

Tanzania Safari Costs Across All The Months

To help you understand the cost of a Tanzania Safari throughout the year, we have attached a table below showcasing the monthly prices for our most recommended 7-day safaris. These prices are based on stays at E2 accommodations, which are mid-tier, 3-star level comfort hotels located in prime areas. E2 accommodations strike a perfect balance between affordability and convenient proximity to major attractions, ensuring a comfortable and accessible safari experience.

To understand our classification of accommodations better, please click here.

Tailored Guidance for Your Safari Adventure

Explore our comprehensive guides rating popular parks and regions in North Tanzania for each month here.

Discover recommended safari tours for June. Connect with our team when planning your June visit for detailed insights into wildlife and avian scenarios across different parks. customise your itinerary based on expert recommendations.

Tours

To check out our Tanzania safaris of different durations during the month of July click on the link of your choice below:

1. 3 Day Tanzania Safari in July
2. 4 Day Tanzania Safari in July
3. 5 Day Tanzania Safari in July
4. 6 Day Tanzania Safari in July
5. 7 Day Tanzania Safari in July
6. 8 Day Tanzania Safari in July
7. 9 Day Tanzania Safari in July
8. 10 Day Tanzania Safari in July
9. 11 Day Tanzania Safari in July
10. All Tanzania Safaris in July

FAQs On Tanzania Safari In July

How is the weather in Tanzania in July? July marks the dry season in Tanzania, characterized by warm days and cooler nights. The landscape undergoes a transformation as vegetation becomes sparse, roads get dusty, and dust devils add an intriguing element. Daytime temperatures range from 14°C / 57°F to 28°C / 82°F, offering pleasant conditions for outdoor activities. However, nights and early mornings can be colder, so it's advisable to pack layers for varying temperatures throughout the day.

Which parks do you recommend visiting in July? For a memorable safari experience in July, consider visiting Serengeti National Park and Tarangire National Park. Serengeti offers the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Wildebeest migration, especially in the North-West region and along the Grumeti river. Tarangire, on the other hand, experiences an increase in wildlife population around rivers and swamps, making it an excellent choice for diverse wildlife encounters.

Is July crowded in Tanzania? Yes, July is considered a peak tourist season in Tanzania due to global school vacations, leading to increased tourist activity and crowds. Popular parks like Serengeti and accommodations tend to fill up quickly during this time. It's advisable to book accommodations and safari tours well in advance to secure your preferred options.

Is July relatively expensive for safaris in Tanzania? Yes, July is considered a peak season, resulting in higher costs for accommodations, safari tours, and other services. Prices are often pushed up due to increased demand. Budget-conscious travelers may opt for camping options, although even camping rates are higher compared to the low season.

Where can I see migration in Tanzania in July? In July, the Wildebeest migration is a highlight in Serengeti National Park. Early July sees the migration in West Serengeti, progressing to North-West Serengeti by mid-July, and eventually spreading across North-West Serengeti and the Masai Mara region in Kenya by late July. The Grumeti river crossings during this time offer thrilling wildlife encounters.

Is July good for birding in Tanzania? While July is renowned for the Wildebeest migration, it also offers opportunities for birding enthusiasts. Parks like Tarangire and Lake Manyara host a variety of bird species, including raptors, waterbirds, and more. Exploring these areas around water bodies can provide rewarding birding experiences.

Can I do a group safari in Tanzania in July? Yes, group safaris are viable in Tanzania in July. However, due to the peak tourist season, it's crucial to plan and book early to secure spots for your group. Many tour operators offer group safari packages that cater to different interests and budgets.

What should I watch out for while planning a July safari in Tanzania? When planning a July safari, several factors need consideration. These include the peak tourist season leading to crowded parks and accommodations, higher costs, the need for early reservations, and ensuring you have appropriate clothing for varying temperatures during the day and night. Additionally, staying updated on wildlife movements and park regulations can enhance your safari experience.

Can you recommend a few Tanzania safari tours for July? Ceratinly, here are some of our recommended tours:

5 DAYS - LAKE MANYARA, NGORONGORO CRATER , SERENGETI (2 NIGHTS), AND TARANGIRE

6 DAYS (NORTH SERENGETI MIGRATION) - SERENGETI AND NGORONGORO CRATER

7 DAYS (NORTH SERENGETI MIGRATION) - LAKE NATRON, SERENGETI AND NGORONGORO CRATER

8 DAYS (NORTH SERENGETI MIGRATION) - TARANGIRE, LAKE NATRON, SERENGETI AND NGORONGORO CRATER

9 DAYS (NORTH SERENGETI MIGRATION) - TARANGIRE, MANYARA, LAKE NATRON, SERENGETI (4 NIGHTS) & NGORONGORO

10 DAYS (NORTH SERENGETI MIGRATION) - TARANGIRE, LAKE MANYARA, LAKE NATRON, SERENGETI AND NGORONGORO CRATER

Reviews

Reviews by travellers who did a Tanzania safari tour with us in July.

David O Sydney, Australia An unforgettable experience in the sensational Serengeti Family

As a family of 6 we experienced an unforgettable safari holiday. Sylvia was brilliant helping us curate a 7 day tour of the North Serengeti witnessing the great Gnu migration inc the Mara river crossing, down through the central Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater and finally to Tarangire before flying to Zanzibar. The accommodation and food were great but what makes a trip like this is the guide - Mosses - is a master of his trade, so knowledgeable, attentive and passionate about the wildlife and helped us learn so much about the culture and customs too.

The Tanzanian people are so warm and welcoming, eager to make positive experiences for tourists.

Highly recommend Monkey Safaris and ‘Lion King’ country!

Dan T If you’re looking for a world class Safari in Tanzania that is flexible around you - go with Monkey Adventures Solo

My partner and I did a private 4 day Safari - Serengeti national park and Ngorogoro crater. The whole experience with Monkey was amazing, from the booking experience / pre-Safari with Sylvia and of course during the safari with our guide James. James is an awesome, funny and all round lovely man - he was also super knowledgeable about everything to do with wildlife / navigation and ensured he catered the trip to what we wanted to see. We saw all the Big 5 and a lot of them, in addition to cheetah’s and other animals which are hard to see. I can’t recommend this company enough if you’re looking for a safari in Tanzania. It’s also great value for money. Thank you Monkey and thank you especially James and Sylvia.

bojana Great safari and very bad Masai village experience Family

We had five days journey with Monkey Adventures. As a family we enjoyed every single moment of it. From the beginning of the arrangement it went smooth and efficient. The first day we spent in Arusha with Oscar and Azori. They made our Arusha visit perfect with their great guidance and kindness. Our safari guide (three days of Serengeti in Tucaone camps and one day in Ngorongoro in Rhino lodge) was John. He was the great guide, knowledgable and proactive. His good connections and knowledge enable us to see the big five and lot of different landscapes of Serengeti. The only minus during our trip was Masai village visit. This is the real tourist scam and the respectable agency like MA should warn the clients and accompany them during this visit to avoid the village representative forcing to spend additional money. Once in, you can’t get out without paying additional items with unreasonable prices. The entry fee was presented to us as 50$per car as a special deal and friendly price managed by the guide. After the visit we found this price as the regular price announced on the official sites of other agencies. This made us feal a bit unfair and disapointed. Anyhow, five grade for the agency and big minus for the Masai village arrangement. We would recommend Monkey adventures to our friends