- Njiro Hill, Arusha Tanzania
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March marks the beginning of Tanzania’s long rains season, bringing significant changes to safari conditions and wildlife behavior. Daily afternoon thunderstorms become common, though mornings typically remain clear and sunny for game drives.
Temperatures moderate from February’s extreme heat, ranging from 75-85°F during the day and cooling to comfortable 60-70°F at night. The increased cloud cover provides relief from intense sunshine while maintaining warm, pleasant conditions for most safari activities.
Rainfall patterns vary significantly across different regions, with northern parks receiving less precipitation than southern and western areas. The Serengeti typically experiences afternoon showers lasting 1-3 hours, while areas like Ruaha may receive more sustained rainfall periods.
Humidity increases throughout the month as vegetation begins responding to moisture, creating lusher landscapes and changing the overall safari atmosphere from dry season starkness to emerging green abundance.
March signals the beginning of the Great Migration’s northward journey from the southern Serengeti calving areas. The massive herds start dispersing from Ndutu and southern plains as grass quality changes with the rains.
Early March may still offer excellent calving season viewing as herds remain concentrated, but movement becomes more unpredictable as animals respond to rainfall patterns and grass growth. This transitional period can provide unique opportunities to witness migration movement behaviors.
The herds typically begin moving toward the central and western Serengeti regions, following ancient routes dictated by grass quality and water availability. Predators continue following the herds, maintaining excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the movement.
While less predictable than January-February concentrations, March can offer exceptional experiences for visitors who appreciate dynamic wildlife situations and don’t mind weather variability.
March rainfall creates both challenges and opportunities for safari experiences. Morning game drives typically proceed without weather interference, as most precipitation occurs during afternoon and evening hours.
Road conditions vary depending on rainfall amounts and soil types. Main roads generally remain accessible, though some secondary tracks may become temporarily impassable during heavy rain periods. Safari vehicles equipped with 4WD capabilities handle most conditions effectively.
Game drive timing may require flexibility, with some afternoon activities shortened or rescheduled based on weather patterns. Many lodges and camps provide covered vehicles or shelters for continuing wildlife viewing during light rain periods.
The changing landscape creates unique photographic opportunities as dust settles and vegetation begins responding to moisture. Dramatic storm clouds and changing light conditions offer compelling backdrop options for wildlife photography.
March offers significant cost advantages as the month falls within Tanzania’s low season pricing structure. Safari packages typically cost 20-30% less than peak dry season rates, providing excellent value for budget-conscious travelers.
Tourist numbers drop considerably compared to high season, resulting in less crowded parks and more exclusive wildlife viewing experiences. Lodges and camps often provide enhanced personal attention due to lower occupancy rates.
Birdwatching reaches exceptional levels during March, as resident species become more active with increased food sources, while migratory birds remain present before their departure north. Over 500 species can be observed across Tanzania’s varied ecosystems.
The cooler temperatures make midday activities more comfortable, extending the comfortable game viewing window beyond early morning and late afternoon periods typical during hotter months.
March provides unique photographic opportunities as landscapes transition from dry season browns to emerging greens. The dramatic sky conditions during storm development create compelling backdrops for wildlife and landscape images.
Lighting becomes more varied and interesting with cloud cover creating natural diffusion and dramatic shadow patterns. Rainbow formations following afternoon showers provide spectacular scenic photography opportunities.
Equipment protection becomes crucial during March safaris, with sudden weather changes requiring quick covering of cameras and lenses. Lens fogging may occur when moving between air-conditioned vehicles and humid outside air.
The lusher vegetation begins providing different compositional elements, though it may also create viewing challenges as animals become less visible in growing grass and foliage.
March weather allows comfortable cultural tourism activities, particularly during morning hours before potential afternoon rains. Village visits and cultural center tours operate at full capacity with moderate temperatures.
Indoor cultural activities like museums, craft centers, and community halls provide excellent alternatives during rainy periods. Many cultural programs adapt scheduling to work around weather patterns.
Hot air balloon safaris may experience occasional cancellations due to wind and rain conditions, though early morning flights often proceed successfully before weather develops.
Walking safaris and guided nature walks require weather monitoring but can provide extraordinary experiences during clear periods, with enhanced animal tracking opportunities in softer ground conditions.
March safaris require flexible scheduling to accommodate weather variability. Successful trips often include backup indoor activities and alternative timing options for key experiences.
Booking with experienced operators familiar with March conditions ensures appropriate vehicle selection and activity planning. Local knowledge becomes particularly valuable for timing decisions and route selection.
Some roads and remote areas may become temporarily inaccessible, requiring alternative routing or destination adjustments. Reputable operators maintain communication systems and contingency plans for weather-related changes.
Travel insurance covering weather-related delays or activity cancellations provides peace of mind during the transitional season period.
