Weather in March
The first 10–14 days of March are typically dry, warm, and stable — similar to February. Daytime temperatures hit 28–30°C (82–86°F), cooler at altitude.
From around 15 March the long rains begin. Afternoon thunderstorms become frequent, then prolonged. By late March most of the northern circuit gets daily rain. Road conditions in the Serengeti's central and western corridors begin to deteriorate.
The south (Ruaha, Nyerere) usually stays drier than the north for an extra week or two.
Wildlife in March
Early March: the calving season tail continues in Ndutu. Predator activity remains strong. From mid-month, the herds start moving north and west out of Ndutu — by late March they're spread across central Serengeti.
Tarangire is good early in the month, less productive as the rains arrive (elephants disperse from the river when water is widely available).
Mahale Mountains and Gombe for chimpanzee trekking remain excellent — chimps are active in any weather, and the green-season scenery is dramatic.
Ruaha and Nyerere in the south stay drier longer and offer good March game viewing.
Best parks for March
- Southern Serengeti (early March) — calving tail, still excellent
- Mahale Mountains — chimps, lush rainforest, very few visitors
- Ruaha — late dry pattern, good big game, near-empty
- Ngorongoro Crater — year-round consistent
Crowds and costs
March is one of the quieter months. Crowds drop sharply after mid-month as the rains begin. Prices fall to green-season rates — 30–40% below August.
For early March (1–14): you get February-quality wildlife at March prices. This is the sweet spot.
For late March (15–31): expect rain, road challenges, and significantly fewer operators running standard northern circuits. Some camps close for the long rains starting late March.
What to pack
All standard safari kit plus: waterproof rain jacket, waterproof shoes or sandals, dry-bag for camera gear, and quick-dry clothing. Insect repellent — mosquito activity increases in the rains.
Should you go in March?
For experienced travellers comfortable with wet-weather safaris: yes. The combination of green-season pricing and February-quality wildlife in the first two weeks is exceptional value.
For first-timers: aim for the first 10 days of March specifically, or pick another month entirely. Late March is genuinely difficult.