Tanzania Safaris in May
As the rains ease, the western Serengeti hosts the wildebeest rut and the season's first Grumeti River crossings. Lush, quiet and excellent value.
Is May a good time to visit Tanzania?
Rains easing — the rut and Grumeti in Tanzania. As the rains ease, the western Serengeti hosts the wildebeest rut and the season's first Grumeti River crossings. Lush, quiet and excellent value. May offers superb value as the long rains taper off. The bush is lush and green, rivers and waterfalls are at their fullest, and crowds remain low with shoulder-season rates. In Tanzania's western Serengeti the wildebeest rut peaks and the first Grumeti River crossings can occur. Expect easing but still-possible afternoon showers and warm days around 14–27°C. Late May begins the transition toward the dry season.
Great Migration in May
Herds push through the western corridor; the rut peaks and the first Grumeti crossings can occur.
Why May
Why go on safari in May
Rivers & waterfalls peak
Full rivers and thundering waterfalls make for dramatic, green-season landscapes.
The wildebeest rut
In the western Serengeti the rut is in full swing, with the season's first Grumeti crossings possible.
Shoulder-season rates
Excellent pricing and quiet parks before the June peak season pushes prices up.
May safaris in depth
May is a transitional month as the long rains gradually ease. Early May can still be wet, but conditions improve steadily, and by late May many areas are drying out ahead of the June peak. The landscape is at its most verdant — thick bush, full rivers and spectacular waterfalls — and the low-season atmosphere means you'll often have sightings to yourself.
In Tanzania, the migration herds are moving through the western corridor, where the wildebeest rut peaks in a frenzy of activity and the first dramatic Grumeti River crossings can take place. With low visitor numbers and shoulder-season pricing, May rewards travellers who don't mind the chance of a passing shower with green-season beauty and great value.
Where to Go
Where to go in Tanzania in May
As the rains ease, the western Serengeti hosts the wildebeest rut and the season's first Grumeti River crossings. Lush, quiet and excellent value.
Serengeti (Western Corridor)
Tanzania · MaySerengeti (Western Corridor) is a standout choice for a May safari in Tanzania.
Tarangire
Tanzania · MayTarangire is a standout choice for a May safari in Tanzania.
Ready-Made Itineraries
Tanzania safari itineraries for May
We don't have a ready-made May itinerary listed right now — but we craft every safari to order. Tell us your dates and we'll design the perfect May trip.
Let our local experts build a tailor-made May safari around your interests, pace and budget.
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Each month offers something different. Tap any month to explore the best safaris and conditions for that time of year.
Plan With Experts
Why plan your Tanzania safari with Imara Africa Safaris
We design Tanzania safaris month by month, not from a template. As a Nairobi-based, KATO bonded and TRA-licensed operator, we know which of Tanzania's parks and camps are at their best in May — and how to balance wildlife, weather, crowds and value.
From your first enquiry to your final game drive, every Tanzania itinerary is tailored to your dates and interests, honestly priced and backed by round-the-clock support.
Curated and reviewed by the Imara Africa Safaris planning desk and senior guiding team, Nairobi, Kenya.
Plan your May Tanzania safari
Tell us your dates and we'll craft the perfect Tanzania safari for May — matched to the season, honestly priced and tailored to you.
May Safari FAQ
May safari questions, answered
Everything travellers ask us about safaris in May.
Rains easing — the rut and Grumeti. As the rains ease, the western Serengeti hosts the wildebeest rut and the season's first Grumeti River crossings. Lush, quiet and excellent value.
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