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Tanzania Safari in May

Best Places to Visit in May 2024

Tanzania, a land of astounding beauty and wildlife diversity, offers a captivating journey for travelers year-round. In May, the country enters the long dry season, presenting a fantastic opportunity to explore its wonders under clear skies. In this comprehensive guide, we will lead you through the top destinations to visit in Tanzania during May, highlighting the available wildlife, average temperatures, seasons, activities, maximum altitudes, accommodation options, and more. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover Tanzania’s treasures in May!

Serengeti National Park

Season | Peak Summer | Avearage Temperature | 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F)

  • May Average Temperature: 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F)
  • Season: Long Dry Season
  • Wildlife: The Great Migration (wildebeests, zebras, and predators), lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and various bird species.
  • Activities: Witness the Great Migration, game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and guided nature walks.
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,845 meters (6,053 feet)

Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination in May. As the Great Migration moves northwards in search of fresh grazing lands, witness the spectacle of hundreds of thousands of wildebeests and zebras. The predators follow closely, providing thrilling game viewing opportunities. Engage in game drives across the vast savannah, where you might encounter lions, cheetahs, and elusive leopards. Consider a hot air balloon safari for a unique aerial perspective of the wildlife below.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Season | Long dry Season | Avearage Temperature | 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F)

  • May Average Temperature: 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F)
  • Season: Long Dry Season
  • Wildlife: The Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), wildebeests, zebras, and various bird species.
  • Activities: Ngorongoro Crater game drives, exploring the Ngorongoro Highlands, visiting Olduvai Gorge.
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,648 meters (11,968 feet)

Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers a unique experience in May. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a vast volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife. Spot the Big Five and marvel at the herds of wildebeests and zebras that inhabit the crater floor. Explore the highlands with their lush forests and engage with the local Maasai tribes to learn about their traditional way of life. Don’t miss a visit to Olduvai Gorge, a significant archaeological site that has provided invaluable insights into human evolution.

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

Season | Long Dry Season | Average Temperature | 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)

  • May Average Temperature: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)
  • Season: Long Dry Season
  • Wildlife: African elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and various bird species.
  • Activities: Game drives, birdwatching, walking safaris, and cultural interactions with local tribes.
  • Maximum Altitude: Not Applicable (Lowland destination)

Tarangire National Park comes to life in May as the long dry season begins. Encounter massive herds of elephants that gather around the Tarangire River, providing incredible sightings. Lions and leopards are also commonly spotted during game drives. Giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests add to the diverse wildlife experience. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian species that flourish during this time. Opt for walking safaris to explore the park’s rich flora and fauna up close.

Lake Manyara National Park

Season | Long Dry Season | Avearage Temperature | 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)

  • May Average Temperature: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)
  • Season: Long Dry Season
  • Wildlife: Tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, flamingos, and various bird species.
  • Activities: Game drives, birdwatching, and exploring the picturesque Lake Manyara.
  • Maximum Altitude: Not Applicable (Lowland destination)

Lake Manyara National Park in May offers rewarding wildlife encounters. Witness the famous tree-climbing lions, gracefully lounging on tree branches. Observe herds of elephants and hippos in and around the lake. May also marks the prime time for flamingo sightings, creating a mesmerizing pink spectacle at the lake’s shores. Birdwatchers will have the opportunity to spot a variety of resident and migratory bird species. Enjoy game drives and revel in the serene beauty of Lake Manyara.

Zanzibar

Season | Dry Season | Avearage Temperature | 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F)

  • May Average Temperature: 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F)
  • Season: Long Dry Season
  • Activities: Relax on pristine beaches, indulge in water sports, explore Stone Town, and visit spice plantations.
  • Maximum Altitude: Not Applicable (Island destination)

The Zanzibar Archipelago is an alluring destination in May. The island experiences perfect beach weather during the long dry season, providing a serene and sunny escape. Bask in the warm temperatures and enjoy the sparkling turquoise waters. Engage in water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving to explore the colorful marine life. Explore the historical charm of Stone Town, a UNESCO-listed heritage site, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich history. Venture on a spice tour to discover Zanzibar’s legacy as the “Spice Islands.”

Exploring Tanzania's Safari Gems

Your Safari Dream, Our Guiding Passion

Experience the allure of Tanzania’s safari gems with JM Tours. Journey to the vast plains of the Serengeti and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, where Africa’s iconic wildlife awaits. Our knowledgeable guides ensure thrilling game drives, offering unforgettable encounters with majestic lions, elephants, and more. Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant culture that define Tanzania. With JM Tours, enjoy a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and personalized service. Unleash your inner explorer and create cherished memories as you explore Tanzania’s untamed beauty on our exceptional safari expeditions. Let us be your trusted guide to extraordinary discoveries.

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