Booking windows: how far ahead to reserve for each season
The parks do not sell out. The best camps in the right places do. How far ahead to book depends almost entirely on when you want to travel.
Peak season: July to October
- The northern Serengeti in the migration season, and the best camps near the Mara River, often fill 9 to 12 months ahead.
- Kilimanjaro in July, August and September is busy, but mountain logistics are more flexible than lodges.
- Zanzibar in July and August is busy with European holidays.
Book 9 to 12 months ahead for the northern Serengeti and small camps.
Christmas and New Year
Late December is the busiest short period of the year, across safari lodges and Zanzibar. Book 9 to 12 months ahead. Some lodges have minimum stays over the holidays.
Calving season: January to March
Ndutu and the southern Serengeti camps are small and limited in number. February is particularly popular. Book 6 to 9 months ahead.
Shoulder seasons: June and November
Easier availability, often with lower rates. Book 3 to 6 months ahead.
Green season: April and May
Many camps close, and those that stay open offer lower rates. Book one to three months ahead, or even later.
At a glance
- July–October, northern Serengeti
- 9–12 months
- Christmas and New Year
- 9–12 months
- January–March, Ndutu
- 6–9 months
- June and November
- 3–6 months
- April–May
- 1–3 months
Flights
International flights to Kilimanjaro (JRO) and Zanzibar (ZNZ) are usually best booked once the safari dates are fixed. Domestic flights can be added by us once the itinerary is confirmed.
Questions we get asked
Can I book a safari at short notice?
Yes. Most of the year we can arrange a safari within a few weeks. Choice of camps is narrower in peak season.
Is it cheaper to book late?
Occasionally, in the green season. In peak season, booking late usually means fewer choices, not lower prices.
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