THE TIME OF PLENTY

Discover the magic of a green season safari in East Africa

It's one of the best-kept secrets for those looking to explore East Africa in a more serene, vibrant, and intimate way... The green season runs from November to April and offers a unique opportunity to witness a quieter, more rejuvenated side of some of the most iconic destinations in Africa. This is when lush landscapes, abundant wildlife, and cooler temperatures combine to make this the perfect time to explore the Serengeti, Masai Mara, Tarangire, and beyond. Whether you're keen on spotting newborn wildlife, capturing stunning landscapes, or simply immersing yourself in the peace of the bush, the green season is an unforgettable time to experience East Africa at its most magical. Let's find out more...

The Serengeti and Masai Mara

In Tanzania, the Serengeti is synonymous with the Great Migration - and while the migration is typically associated with the dry season, the green season offers an entirely different experience. The Serengeti undergoes a dramatic transformation as the rains sweep across the plains, filling the rivers and nourishing the grasslands. During this period, the park becomes a haven for newborn animals. The wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles that remain in the park give birth to their young, creating extraordinary opportunities for wildlife photographers to capture intimate moments of life in the wild. Predators, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards, also take advantage of the abundance of prey, making for thrilling game drives.

Across the border in Kenya, the Masai Mara takes on a similar vibrancy. While the herds of wildebeest and zebra have moved south, the reserve is still teeming with life. The Mara North, Mara Naboisho, and Olare Motorogi conservancies offer an exclusive experience during the green season, with fewer tourists and an abundance of wildlife. It’s an ideal time to witness the antics of baby animals, from playful lion cubs learning to hone their skills to baby elephants following their mothers through the tall, fresh grasses.

The cooler temperatures of the green season in both Kenya and Tanzania provide comfortable conditions for game drives. The lush foliage and vibrant flowers bring out the beauty of the landscapes, while the abundant water sources mean that animals are more spread out and easier to track. The quiet nature of the green season also provides more privacy, with fewer vehicles and less crowding, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the experience without distractions.

Tarangire and Lake Manyara

In Tanzania’s Tarangire National Park, the green season brings an entirely new atmosphere. The park, famous for its large herds of elephants, transforms into a lush, green paradise, and the wildlife flourishes as waterholes and rivers fill up. Elephants, a year-round attraction in Tarangire, are particularly abundant during this time. These majestic creatures migrate into the park to feed on the fresh vegetation, creating breathtaking scenes that are perfect for wildlife photography.

Similarly, in Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy - a private sanctuary that offers exceptional opportunities for night game drives and wildlife sightings - the green season brings out the best in the park’s habitats. Known for its rhinos and incredible conservation efforts, Ol Pejeta offers a more private, immersive experience. The cool temperatures of the season also make it the perfect time for exploring the vast landscapes and tracking the region's famous Big Five.

Further south, Lake Manyara National Park, which is situated along the base of the Great Rift Valley, comes to life during the green season. The rains transform the park into a verdant oasis, attracting large flocks of birds, including flamingos and pelicans, which congregate around the lake. This is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a diverse array of species making an appearance during the rainy months. The cooler temperatures also make it more pleasant to explore this park, whether you're in search of the elusive tree-climbing lions or simply soaking in the lush landscapes.

Unbeatable birdwatching

For birdwatching enthusiasts, the green season is a true delight. The seasonal rains attract a plethora of migratory birds, as East Africa becomes a stopping point on their long journey. The Masai Mara and Serengeti, as well as Lake Manyara, are prime spots for birdwatching, offering sightings of over 500 bird species. In addition to the resident species, migratory birds add a splash of colour and sound, creating a birdwatcher's paradise.

In Tanzania, the birdlife of Ruaha National Park thrives during the green season. The park’s rivers and woodlands provide an ideal environment for a diverse range of species. Birdwatchers visiting both the Serengeti and Ruaha during this time can enjoy extraordinary sightings, with the added benefit of avoiding the crowds of peak season.

The quiet side of East Africa

One of the biggest advantages of the green season is the quiet atmosphere. With fewer tourists visiting the parks, you’ll have the chance to enjoy exclusive experiences in both Kenya and Tanzania. Whether you’re exploring the Mara’s private conservancies or the less-travelled corners of the Serengeti, the green season offers more privacy, less traffic, and an opportunity to connect deeply with the wilderness. This peaceful, unhurried atmosphere allows you to witness the natural world in a way that few others experience. The slower pace and fewer distractions give you the chance to appreciate every detail of the landscape, from the rustling of leaves in the breeze to the distant call of a lion.

A time of renewal

The green season is not just a time for wildlife to thrive; it’s also a vital period for the ecosystem. The rains replenish water sources, enabling animals to spread out more evenly across the parks. This period of renewal is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting sustainable tourism efforts. By choosing to visit during this time, you’re helping to contribute to the conservation efforts that preserve East Africa’s incredible wildlife and landscapes for future generations.

The green season offers a completely different perspective of East Africa’s incredible parks and reserves. In fact, in our opinion, there’s no better time to experience the magic of this region! The abundance of new life, the quiet serenity of the parks, and the breathtaking landscapes will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Plan your green season safari with Leadwood Holidays. We offer tailor-made itineraries that allow you to experience the very best of Kenya and Tanzania during this magical time of year. Whether you're looking to track predators, witness the birth of new life, or simply immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the landscapes, we’ll ensure your safari is one to remember.