Tanzania safari in September

Monthly Safari Guide

Tanzania Safari in
September

Late Dry Season 15-29°C 15mm rain 19097 tours
September continues Tanzania's excellent dry season with the migration still active in the northern Serengeti. River crossings continue, though their frequency becomes less predictable as herds fragment. The entire northern Tanzania circuit is superb with dry conditions pushing all wildlife to permanent water. Tarangire remains outstanding, and the Selous (now Nyerere National Park) offers wild and uncrowded alternatives. Prices remain at high-season levels but crowds thin slightly from August's peak.

Season overview

Late Dry Season in Tanzania

September falls within Tanzania's late dry season, characterised by daytime highs of 29°C and overnight lows of 15°C. Average rainfall is 15mm, making this a virtually rain-free period.

The dry conditions mean vegetation is thinner, making wildlife easier to spot. Animals concentrate around permanent water sources, creating dense and dramatic viewing opportunities. Clear skies provide excellent visibility and photography conditions.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in September

  • Continued Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti
  • Herds begin to split, some moving back south
  • Dry conditions concentrate all wildlife at water sources
  • Excellent birdwatching with resident raptors hunting

Where to go

Best Parks in Tanzania for September

Serengeti (Northern)

Top pick this month

Tarangire

Recommended for September

Ngorongoro Crater

Recommended for September

Selous/Nyerere

Recommended for September

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in September

Crowd Level

High

Price Level

High Season

Average price per person

Budget

$1581

from $60 · 2470 tours

Mid-range

$1762

from $100 · 10231 tours

Luxury

$3671

from $100 · 1209 tours

Ultra-Luxury

$11075

from $1048 · 63 tours

September commands high-season pricing in Tanzania due to excellent conditions and strong demand. Booking 3-6 months ahead is recommended for the best selection of camps and lodges.

Preparation

What to Pack for September

Sun protection essential
Light but covering clothing
Extra water bottle
Camera memory cards
Neutral-coloured wardrobe

With temperatures between 15 and 29 degrees Celsius, layering is essential. Early morning game drives can be cold, while midday is warm. Neutral colours (khaki, olive, brown) are best for safari. Avoid bright whites and dark blues which attract tsetse flies in some areas.

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Frequently asked questions

Tanzania Safari in September FAQ

Is September a good time for a safari in Tanzania?

September falls in Tanzania's late dry season, with temperatures of 15-29 degrees Celsius and 15mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are high, and pricing is at high season rates. Continued Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti. Overall, September is a solid choice for a Tanzania safari.

How much does a Tanzania safari cost in September?

Tanzania safari costs in September vary by comfort level. Budget safaris average $1581/person from $60. Mid-range options average $1762/person. Luxury safaris average $3671/person. Ultra-luxury experiences average $11075/person. Prices are moderate in September. Compare 19097 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Tanzania in September?

September wildlife highlights in Tanzania include: Continued Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti. Herds begin to split, some moving back south. Dry conditions concentrate all wildlife at water sources. Excellent birdwatching with resident raptors hunting. The best parks to visit this month are Serengeti (Northern), Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, Selous/Nyerere.

What should I pack for a Tanzania safari in September?

Essential packing for a September Tanzania safari: Sun protection essential, Light but covering clothing, Extra water bottle, Camera memory cards, Neutral-coloured wardrobe. Temperatures range from 15 to 29 degrees Celsius with 15mm rainfall, so layering is key for variable temperatures.

Which parks are best to visit in Tanzania in September?

The top parks in Tanzania for September are Serengeti (Northern), Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, Selous/Nyerere. During the late dry season, these parks offer the best game viewing conditions. Serengeti (Northern) is particularly recommended this month. Browse all Tanzania park guides and tour options on SafariPicked.