When is the best time for an African Safari?

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When is the best time for an African Safari?

Christine Boecker • February 12, 2021

When planning a Safari to Africa, I am often asked what the ideal time of year is for the very best wildlife-viewing.

There are two main seasons in Africa – summer and winter. The African winter (May to October) falls in the dry season and is by far the most popular time to go on safari. Wildlife congregates at water holes and vegetation is lower, making it easier to spot the animals. If you are taking the family or travelling with a group of friends, it’s advisable to start planning at least a year ahead, since the better safari lodges cater to just 24 guests. Solo travellers should also book early, which can possibly save that dreaded single room supplement.

July to October is the time of the annual Great Wildebeest Migration in East Africa’s Maasai Mara and Serengeti National Parks, and when wildlife concentrations are high in Botswana’s Okavango Delta – yet it is not the only time to visit.

The green season or rainy season is in summer (November to April), however the rains in Africa usually consist of a short afternoon shower which clears the air and cools things down nicely. It is baby-time in the bush and is great for photography and birding, especially if you are okay with elevated temperatures.

Although you may witness spectacular scenes in the high season, there are many advantages in visiting at other times of year, not least being that you can enjoy watching the teeming wildlife without so many other travellers being around. Elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes and many other species roam the African savannah all year around. Visiting at quieter times of the year means that you’ll find considerable savings on off-season prices. Also -solo travellers can often forgo the single room supplement, so this really may be a very smart time to be out on safari.

One of Africa’s best-kept wildlife secrets is that there are actually other migrations. January to March is the calving season for wildebeest, as they migrate across the southern plains of Tanzania’s Serengeti in their thousands in search of greener grass, often closely followed by predators, such as lion and cheetah.

The lesser-known Zebra Migration takes place in Botswana from February to May. Since game fences were removed, these animals have re-established their ancient migration routes between the Chobe River and the Kalahari Desert to the south. As you are surrounded by countless Zebras moving slowly across desert, you’ll realize that it’s not called a ‘dazzle of Zebras’ for nothing!

Birders may be intrigued by Zambia’s Fruit Bat Migration (in November), or by the chance to spot the elusive Shoebill. During our Birding Safaris (between November and May), you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable sightings of rare and migratory birds.

As you can see, there are many reasons to travel in the off-season – especially if you wish to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the African wilderness.

Whenever you want to go on safari, it’s never too soon to get in touch to ensure the best value and top choice of lodges and guides. And please don’t feel you have to have it all researched in advance. Even if your plans are a little vague, I am always happy to chat and come up with great itinerary for you to consider.

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