what month is safari africa best

This is the best time to take an African safari

Lions and elephants and cheetahs, oh my! For nature lovers, an African safari is the ultimate immersive getaway. Safaris offer a combination of wildlife encounters and luxurious lodges, incredible thrills and peaceful, unplugged wilderness.

Although traveling to the African bush is a great experience any time of year, there are definitely more advantageous times for wildlife spotting. For example, in East Africa, you may want to time a trip to coincide with the great wildebeest and zebra migration. In Southern Africa, a trip at the same time most babies are born offers some incredibly special moments watching newborns with their mamas.

I've visited Africa more than a dozen times and have gone on safaris in six different countries, visiting every season.

While I've seen incredible wildlife — including lion cubs on a December trip to Botswana and spectacular herds of elephants in Zimbabwe on a May safari — in the nonhigh seasons, I've also dealt with some pretty extreme weather as well. For instance, I have experienced intense rain storms in November and freezing temperatures in June.

Sometimes the best time to take a safari is when you have flexibility in your schedule or can get the best rates. However, if you want to plan around the absolute best time to spot wildlife, read below to find out when to go.

What months are best to go on an African safari?

The African continent is massive, comprising 54 unique nations and nearly 2,000 languages. Most safaris take place in two main savanna regions of the African continent: Southern and East Africa. The Southern Africa region includes South Africa , Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. East Africa contains the safari destinations of Kenya , Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda.

Most of these destinations have one thing in common: They're located in the Southern Hemisphere. Even the ones that straddle the equator, such as Uganda, follow the Southern Hemisphere's weather patterns.

This means the seasons on safari will be the opposite of what you're most likely used to at home. Summer is December through February, winter is June through August, spring is September to November and autumn is March through May.

The Southern Hemisphere's winter and early spring — roughly June through October — is usually considered safari high season because it's the driest time of year. Wildlife gathers around watering holes when water is scarce elsewhere, Mark Nolting of Africa Adventure Company says; this makes it easier to see many species in one location.

In East Africa, the best time to go on an African safari is during the great migration, when thousands of antelope and zebra move in massive herds to find water. That season is roughly December to March and then again from June to mid-November.

There are some exceptions to this rule though.

In Botswana seeing wildlife from a mokoro, a type of dugout canoe, is a popular activity. That's why it's necessary to visit when there's water in the passageways. The dry season provides the same viewing opportunities as above, so you should be able to spot game anytime.

The private reserves in South Africa also defy seasonality; game is so dense in areas, such as the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, that you should be able to spot wildlife no matter the month or season.

Related: Up close and animal: Why walking safaris are so worthwhile

When is the best weather for a safari?

The dry weather of the winter season, roughly June through September, is often considered the best weather for a safari. Note: It can be quite cold after the sun sets, so bring a hat, fleece and gloves to keep warm during early morning game drives (though most safari lodges will provide blankets and hot beverages, too).

The "green season," as the rainier summer months are often called, is usually also the hottest time of year. At this time, you'll encounter the most insects, including mosquitos, in the bush.

Shoulder season — the times between the high season and green season, March to May and October to December — usually offers moderate temperatures and just an occasional storm. This time can be a great option for travelers since this is when you can get better pricing while still enjoying prime wildlife viewing.

Related: Luxury African safaris that support local communities

Is there one good time to go for seeing wildlife?

We're here to tell you that no matter what time of the year you go to Africa, you are guaranteed to see wildlife. The density and ease of spotting may change with the months and seasons, and some species will be easier to spot at certain times of year than others. However, there will always be free-roaming animals large and small if you visit the African bush.

That said, some times have a bit more to offer than others in terms of wildlife viewing.

The easiest time to spot wildlife — meaning you'll spend less time searching during your morning and afternoon game drive and more time watching the animals — is during the dry season. This coincides with the Southern Hemisphere's winter months, June through September, and usually reaches into October. During this period animals will be searching for water and will often congregate in the same location around a water hole or stream.

Spring, roughly October through December, is another prime time to visit. This is when many animals have babies, and the opportunity to see these newborns in the wild is truly a special treat. It's also when the foliage bursts into bloom and migratory avian life return to their leafy homes.

Summer brings denser foliage and a more vivid landscape, and for twitchers (birders, as they're known on safari), visiting this time of year offers big rewards. It's harder to spot wildlife with a large amount of dense growth, though, so you may need to spend another day or two on safari to tick off all the wildlife you're hoping to see.

Related: 9 incredible luxury family safari lodges for the ultimate African adventure

Looking for more planning advice for an African safari? Elsewhere's local experts in Botswana , South Africa or Tanzania can help you plan an epic wildlife adventure to those countries. (Note: Elsewhere is owned by TPG's sister brand Lonely Planet).

Best Time to Visit Africa

Worst/best time to visit africa: an ultimate month by month guide.

Worst/Best Time to Visit Africa: An Ultimate Month By Month and Country By Country Guide – According to Experts

When is the worst/best time to visit Africa month by month and country by country According to Experts? That depends on your itinerary, the season, and whether or not you plan to see the “big five” animals. The perfect African vacation can be planned with the help of this overview of Africa’s top tourist spots.

In the drier winter months of May–September, vegetation thins out and wildlife congregates around surviving water sources, making this the best to visit Africa. This is the optimum time to visit the massive southern wildlife reserves.

However, Africa is a great vacation spot any time of year because different parts of the continent enjoy distinctly different temperatures.

From November through April, you may enjoy lush foliage, excellent birdwatching , and typically lower rates. Even though it rains heavily in certain places, this is a great season to visit Victoria Falls , go scuba diving in Zanzibar, or go chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda.

Speak to an Africa specialist to start planning your tailor-made holiday…

Call one of our experts or arrange a video appointment for ideas and advice. Whether you’re full of ideas or unsure of where to start, we’re here to help. Serial safari-goer or first-time visitor, we’re ready to create your ultimate tailormade itinerary.

Enquire now and a Travel expert will get back to you within 2-4 hours.

A Month By Month Guide: Worst/Best time to visit Africa

Visiting africa in january.

In the southeast of the Serengeti, the migrating herds give birth in January, making it a busy yet exciting time to visit. You can take advantage of over 450 different species of birds in the Caprivi Strip of Namibia. In Swakopmund, you might also observe thousands of flamingos congregating on lagoons. January in Zanzibar is ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling due to the clear, quiet waters.

Visiting Africa in February

Victoria Falls is at full force, with water crashing over the edge and into the gorge below, despite the fact that it is the rainy season in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Migratory birds are in plenty across the rest of Zambia right now. Meanwhile, this is a great time to visit Uganda and embark on a safari in search of chimpanzees and mountain gorillas.

Visiting Africa in March

Wet weather can make travel difficult in many parts of Africa during the month of March. Precipitation is expected soon in Tanzania, and the humidity levels are rising. It’s still a great time to see wildlife, as migratory birds arrive by the millions, and the camps are calm and have great deals.

Visiting Africa in April

Male antelope in Botswana and Malawi are displaying their dominance during the breeding season by strutting and butting heads with one another. The best time to see chimpanzees in Rwanda is in the late summer and early fall, when fruit is ripe and the primates descend to the lower branches to feed. Clear, calm water and excellent visibility make this a perfect time for scuba diving in Mozambique.

Visiting Africa in May

The dry season in Southern Africa begins in May. Grass is drying up, so herds are moving from pastures to wetland areas, making this a great time to visit. This makes their movements and the locations of the predators they attract more predictable. But the busiest times and highest prices are still a ways off. The weather in Mozambique is perfect for sightseeing right now, and the same goes for Egypt and Morocco.

Visiting Africa in June

It’s the middle of winter in Southern Africa, so the days will be warm and the nights will be cool. Game becomes more visible as the foliage dries up and water holes decrease in size in Botswana and Uganda. Meanwhile, the pumped waterholes of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and the Niassa Game Reserve in northern Mozambique attract a wide variety of animals that are perfect subjects for wildlife photographers.

Visiting Africa in July

As humpback whales make their annual migration along the coast, game in the game reserves congregates near waterholes, making for excellent whale and game watching. Elephants begin to congregate in Tarangire, Tanzania, and cruising is available on the Lower Zambezi in Zambia, while the Great Migration groups are typically found in the northern Serengeti as they head into Kenya.

Visiting Africa in August

Large herds of wildebeest and zebra are converging on the Masai Mara in Kenya as the Great Migration nears its peak. If you’re looking to combine a walking safari with a trip to Victoria Falls, look no further than Zambia. Lake Malawi, where the water is calm and the weather is warm, is another great destination right now.

Visiting Africa in September

Tarangire, in Tanzania, is known for its large annual elephant gatherings. Northern parks tend to be more crowded than their southern counterparts. Low humidity and comfortable temps make this a fantastic time to explore Namibia. Thousands of carmine bee-eaters migrate to Zambia’s riverbanks to nest, and Mozambique is a top destination for scuba divers and snorkelers.

Visiting Africa in October

The eland, the largest antelope in the world, often congregates in the hundreds for the breeding season in Malawi’s Nyika National Park. The end of the dry season is prime time for seeing animals in Mozambique. The fossa, a predatory creature like a cat, can be seen in the western deciduous woods of Madagascar at this time of year.

Visiting Africa in November

Since nightly rains reduce tourist numbers, now is an excellent time to take advantage of Tanzania’s off-season rates. From Kenya, migrating herds begin their journey south, and river crossings are common sights in the northern Serengeti. Despite the presence of both native and transient bird species, this is a peaceful time to go birdwatching in Zimbabwe’s parks.

Visiting Africa in December

Plan ahead to assure availability in Tanzania and South Africa throughout the holiday season. Short rains and the potential to witness baby animals and migratory bird species make December a wonderful time to visit Kenya. Crocodile eggs begin to hatch in Malawi, and new moms carry their babies in their mouths to the riverbank.

A Handy Climate Guide Country By Country

The best time to visit Africa depends on the countries you want to visit, the time of the year, and if you are keen on going on one of the big five Africa safaris . Here is an overview of Africa destinations to help you plan the perfect African tours .

Best time to Visit Botswana

The dry months of June through October in Botswana are prime time for seeing wildlife. Temperatures in October can reach 40 degrees Celsius during the day, but can fall to below 10 degrees Celsius at night. April and May are also good times to go on safari in Botswana, however you should be prepared for some rain.

• Best time to visit : June to October
• Watch out : Nights can be cold and chilly during the peak season, especially in the drier areas

Best time to Visit Kenya

The months of June through October and the second half of December through March are ideal for visiting Kenya. In general, the country receives the heaviest deluge of precipitation between April and June, with lighter downpours in November and December. However, you can visit Kenya at any time of year because different regions of the country are accessible at different times.

• Best time to visit:  July to October
• Watch out:  Expect chilly weather conditions in higher altitudes

Best time to Visit Malawi

Summer, winter, and the rainy season each have their own unique climate in Malawi. Malawi has moderate temperatures from May to July, but hot weather in August and September. From the end of September through the beginning of April, Malawi’s roads are in bad condition due to heavy rainfall. With mild temperatures year-round, the best time to visit Malawi is from May through August or September.

• Best time to visit: June to August
• Watch out: Days are warm and cloudless but nights can be cold

Best time to Visit Mauritius

The climate in Mauritius is consistently warm and sunny throughout the year. Vacations on Mauritius’ beaches can be enjoyed at any time of the year, however January and February are more likely to see severe weather. Due to its position in the southern hemisphere, the country enjoys dry, relatively humidity-free weather from May through November.

• Best time to visit: September to January
• Watch out: The summer months typically get heavy rainfall with occasional thunderstorms

Best time to Visit Morocco

From October through February, the climate in Morocco is highly variable, with some years seeing mild winters and others experiencing wet and chilly ones. The months of April, May, October, and early November offer the most pleasant temperatures in Morocco.

• Best time to visit: September and October
• Watch out: October is a busy month for tourism so please confirm your travel plans much in advance

Best time to Visit Mozambique

The dry and wet seasons in Mozambique are just as diverse as they are anywhere else. April through September is the best season to visit Mozambique because of the dry weather. It can get very hot and humid during the rainy season if you venture inland or to the south.

• Best time to visit: June to October
• Watch out: Due to strong winds in August, visibility can be poor in some areas

Best time to Visit Namibia

Namibia enjoys 365 days of sunshine every year. Since Namibia is located in the southern hemisphere, the dry winter months may be rather chilly, with temperatures frequently falling below freezing. Safaris in Namibia are at their finest from June through October.

• Best time to visit: April to June
• Watch out: By the end of June, temperatures as well as the amount of greenery begin to decrease steadily

Best time to Visit Uganda

Although Uganda can be visited at any time of year, the dry seasons are typically preferred. Gorilla trekking is ideal throughout these months as well. Although the majority of Uganda experiences a tropical climate, local variations do exist; for example, the higher elevations of Mount Elgon and the Ruwenzori Range can experience temperatures well below freezing.

• Long wet season: April – June
• Short rainy season : October – December
• Drying time: June – October, December – March.

Best time to Visit Rwanda

Rwanda’s high altitude makes for a cooler climate despite the country’s close proximity to the Equator. The mountains are cooler, but it’s warm across the country. Daily highs in Rwanda average around 77 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a nice year-round destination. Depending on altitude, daytime highs can reach the 80s Fahrenheit and overnight lows can drop into the 60s. In the upper elevations, frost is to be expected. The climate in Rwanda is characterized by the following seasons:

• Long rains: March – May
• Long drying time: May – October
• Short rains : October – December
• Short drying time: December – March

Best time to Visit Seychelles

The winds that pass through Seychelles are mostly responsible for its weather. during October and March, the North-West trade winds provide hot and humid weather, while during January and February, the country receives a lot of rain. The best time to visit Seychelles is from May through October, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal.

• Best time to visit: May to October
• Watch out: These are the busiest months for tourism in Seychelles

Best time to South Africa

Because of the wide range in local climates, the best time to visit South Africa is contextual. South Africa is located in the southern hemisphere, hence its seasons are the exact opposite of ours. Although August through October (Spring) is prime time for safaris in South Africa, the country is welcoming visitors at all times of the year. Mid-December through mid-January and Easter are peak travel times for domestic visitors, as they coincide with school breaks. As a result, major tourist hotspots in South Africa should be avoided for the time being.

• Best time to visit: May to October in the north and eastern parts; October to November and February to March in the Southern Cape region
• Watch out: Between May to August in the north and eastern parts, expect cool and dry weather with temperatures dipping below -12°C at night.

Best time to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania is a fantastic travel destination any time of the year, so before you book your trip, think about what you hope to get out of your time there. April and May are the worst months to visit Tanzania because of the heavy rainfall.

• Best time to visit: July to October
• Watch out: It can get quite cold in the higher altitudes

Best time to Visit Zambia

May through August, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal, are the ideal months to visit Zambia. It’s the best time of year to watch sports because the weather is moderate. Temperatures in Zambia can reach 40 degrees Celsius during the hot and dry season; nonetheless, this is the best time of year to go on safari. The wet season may be inconvenient for travel, but it’s prime time for spotting migratory birds in their natural habitats.

• Best time to visit : June to August
• Watch out: While the days are warm and cloudless, nights can be chilly!

Best time to Visit Zimbabwe

Between May through August, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal, is the ideal season to visit Zimbabwe. The daytime highs average approximately 20 degrees Celsius, while the nighttime lows are typically in the teens. Temperatures can plummet to near freezing in Zimbabwe’s mountainous regions. It is also peak safari season in Zimbabwe during these months.

• Best time to visit:  June to August
• Watch out:  Pack warm winter clothes for morning game drives since temperatures can dip as low as 6°C

Best Time to Visit the Victoria Falls

From February to May, right after the summer rains, is when the world’s largest sheet of falling water, Victoria Falls, is at its most impressive. The spray from  Victoria Falls  is spectacular, but the best time to see it is not when safaris are most popular in adjacent Chobe,  Botswana , or Hwange,  Zimbabwe . When the water is at its highest and fastest, it is also too risky to attempt activities like swimming in Devil’s Pool or certain portions of white-water rapids.

Best Time For An African Safari

From September to December, the continent-wide dry and warm weather is perfect for safari tours in the southwest, Cape area tourism, and experiences in East Africa .

This is also prime season for seeing wildlife in the vast stretches of wilderness that reach from west to east. These months are ideal for wildlife photography in Southern Africa since they coincide with the time when the continent’s grand animal migrations take place.

In the national parks of Southern Africa , you have a good chance of seeing newborn animals. Traveling to Africa between September and December is an excellent time to see a wide variety of animals and people.

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Best Time for an African Safari by Month

When to travel for an african safari.

An African safari is a breathtaking adventure that promises unforgettable encounters with nature's grandeur. 

From the vast savannas teeming with wildlife to the awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets, an African safari offers a unique experience that will leave you in awe. However, the timing of your visit can greatly impact your overall experience. Different months bring diverse weather conditions, animal behavior patterns, and unique opportunities for wildlife viewing.

This article is your ultimate guide to the best time of year to visit for an African safari. We'll explore the advantages and highlights of each month, helping you create the perfect itinerary tailored to your timeline.

Where to Go for an African Safari by Month

January falls within the dry season in many parts of Africa, making it an ideal time for safaris. The lack of rain means fewer mosquitoes and clearer skies for optimal wildlife viewing.

You can witness the calving season of wildebeest in the Serengeti, as well as catch glimpses of predators stalking herds with calves. The dry conditions also make it easier to spot animals congregating around waterholes.

Reserve your safari well in advance, as this is a popular time and things book quickly. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, and don't forget your binoculars and camera.

B est safari locations to visit in January:   est safari locations to visit in January: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania; Masai Mara, Kenya; Central Kalahari, Botswana

February in most parts of sub-Saharan Africa is still within the dry season, with warm temperatures and clear skies prevailing in many regions.

It’s a great time to witness large concentrations of wildlife around waterholes and rivers. You may also catch sight of newborn animals, adding an extra dose of cuteness to your safari experience.

Consider booking your safari during the first half of the month to avoid potential price increases and crowds during the peak season.

Best safari locations to visit in February: Chobe National Park, Botswana; Amboseli National Park, Kenya; Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

March marks the transition from the dry season to the wet season in many parts of Africa, with the possibility of occasional showers.

Witness the start of the annual wildebeest migration in the Serengeti in March or spot newborn animals among the lush vegetation emerging after the rains.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, as well as a lightweight rain jacket or poncho. Be prepared for occasional showers and potentially muddy conditions.

Best safari locations to visit in March: Amboseli National Park, Kenya, Nyerere Game Reserve, Tanzania; South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

April is considered the "green season" in many African regions, with lush vegetation and moderate rainfall.

It’s an excellent time for bird watching, as migratory species return to Africa. You may still find newborn animals in some areas and enjoy the returning vibrant, lush landscapes.

Pack waterproof clothing and footwear, as well as insect repellent. Consider booking your safari early, as some lodges may close during the wet season.

Best safari locations to visit in April: Nxai Pan, Botswana; Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, South Africa; Tsavo East, Kenya

May is typically a transitional month, with some regions experiencing the tail end of the wet season, while others begin to dry out.

May is an excellent time to witness the start of the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti and Masai Mara. You may also spot newborn animals and enjoy the lush landscapes before the dry season sets in.

Pack a combination of lightweight and waterproof clothing, as well as insect repellent. Consider booking your safari towards the end of the month to increase your chances of drier conditions.

Best safari locations to visit in May: Central Kalahari, Botswana; Namib-Naukluft, Namibia; Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

June marks the start of the dry season in many parts of Africa, meaning cooler temperatures and clear skies.

It’s an excellent time of year for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around waterholes and rivers in search of water. You may also witness the start of the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti.

Pack warm clothing for the cooler mornings and evenings. Book your safari early, as this is a popular time for safaris.

Best safari locations to visit in June: Okavango Delta, Botswana; Kruger National Park, South Africa; Serengeti National Park, Tanzania's

July is typically a dry and cool month in many African regions, making it a great time for safaris.

The wildebeest migration in the Serengeti and Masai Mara is rising to its peak, offering incredible opportunities to witness this natural phenomenon of millions of wildebeest and thousands of zebra pounding across the landscape.

Book your accommodation and safari well in advance, as this is a popular time for safaris. Pack warm clothing for the cooler mornings and evenings.

Best safari locations to visit in July: Masai Mara, Kenya; Serengeti National Park, Tanzania; Kafue National Park, Zambia

August is typically a dry and sunny month in many African regions, with cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings.

During this time, the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti and Masai Mara tops out for unbelievable opportunities witnessing river crossings and predators.

Book your safari between 12 to 24 months in advance for this event, as this is a popular time for safaris. Pack warm clothing for the cooler mornings and evenings, as well as lightweight, breathable clothing for the warmer afternoons.

Best safari locations to visit in August: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania; Lake Nakuru, Kenya; Moremi, Botswana

September marks the transition from the dry season to the wet season in many parts of Africa, with the possibility of occasional showers.

The wildlife is more active and easier to stop between among the dwindling water sources before the lush vegetation of the wet season returns. While it’s still a popular time to visit, it’s less crowded than during the large crowds the wildebeest migration attracts. 

Best safari locations to visit in September: Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, South Africa; Lake Manyara, Tanzania; South Luangwa National Park, Zambia's

October is typically a warm and dry month in many African regions, with clear skies and minimal rainfall.

Animals still tend to congregate around waterholes and rivers in search of water during October before the seasonal rains kick in. It’s also a wonderful tie to visit lesser-visited parks that will be free of crowds still hoping to witness the linger tail-end of the Great Migration.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, as well as a hat and sunscreen. If looking for popular locations, book your safari early, as this is still a popular time for safaris.

Best safari locations to visit in October: Okavango Delta, Botswana; Amboseli National Park, Kenya; Taringere National Park, Tanzania

November marks the start of the wet season in many parts of Africa, with the possibility of occasional showers and thunderstorms.

Wildlife is still abundant in November and tends to congregate around the remaining water sources before the rainy season replenishes the landscape. November also offers excellent birdwatching as many migratory species have returned.

Best safari locations to visit in November: Kruger National Park, South Africa; Etosha National Park, Namibia; Nyerere Game Reserve, Tanzania

December falls within the wet season in many parts of Africa, with warm temperatures and increased rainfall.

It’s an excellent time for bird watching, as most migratory species have returned to Africa. You may also witness newborn animals and enjoy the lush, green landscapes.

Pack waterproof clothing and footwear, as well as insect repellent. Be prepared for occasional showers and potentially muddy conditions. While December is not as popular for safaris, accommodations are limited because some seasonal lodges may close; so book your safari adventure early. 

Best safari locations to visit in December: Kruger National Park, South Africa; Nyerere Game Reserve, Tanzania; Okavango Delta, Botswana's

Book Your African Wildlife Safari in the Right Month for You

Whether you're seeking to witness the iconic wildebeest migration, spot newborn animals, or enjoy lush, green landscapes, there's a perfect month for your African safari adventure. From the dry season of June to August, or the wet season of March to May, each month offers a unique blend of experiences.

Consider your preferences when planning yoru safari, such as witnessing specific wildlife events, avoiding peak tourist seasons, or taking advantage of lower rates. Factor in the weather conditions and your tolerance for heat, rain, or cooler temperatures. If the destination matters more than the time of year, you can find more places to visit with our breakdown on when to visit specific safari parks and regions in Africa .

Ultimately, there is no "best" time for an African safari; it all depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to experience. By considering the information we have provided, we can help you plan the perfect African safari. Get started by exploring your African safari wishlist to create unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.

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Best Time to Go on Safari (Calendar)

Susan Swanepoel

Safari Travel Planner

Author: Susan Swanepoel - 28 August 2023

Last Update: 6 May 2024

With the “best time to go on safari” being a common query, this article delves into the monthly breakdown of safari experiences across Africa , providing insights on what to expect from January to December.

Embarking on a safari is a dream for many, offering a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. However, the experience can vastly differ depending on the time of year you choose to visit.

Whether it’s witnessing the majestic wildebeest migration in Tanzania, partaking in thrilling gorilla trekking in Rwanda, or exploring the lush landscapes of South Africa, timing plays a pivotal role. This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to choose the perfect time for your safari adventure.

Safaris in January

January marks the onset of the ‘ Green Season ‘ across much of Africa, as the landscapes transform with the rains, rejuvenating the terrain and filling the once barren land with fresh grazing. As waterholes become ever-present, animals disperse far and wide, making the spectacle of wildlife movement a sight to behold.

However, for those with a keen interest in big game viewing, Tanzania and Kenya stand out as top choices for safari in January due to their prevailing dry conditions. Similarly, Rwanda, nestled in East Africa, offers excellent opportunities for gorilla trekking during its dry spell.

Despite being the rainy season in South Africa, destinations like the Cape and the Garden Route remain popular and delightful.

Moreover, January is a special month in Tanzania’s Southern Serengeti, with the wildebeest migration’s calving season in full swing, luring numerous predators, and offering breathtaking scenes of nature’s cycle.

Highlights on a safari in January

• Big game viewing in Tanzania and Kenya, still in their dry seasons.
• Gorilla trekking in Rwanda during its dry season.
• South Africa’s Cape and Garden Route are at their best, even in the rainy season.
• Lush vegetation, spectacular scenery, and fewer visitors in many safari countries.
• Wildebeest calving season in Southern Serengeti, Tanzania, attracting numerous predators.
• Zebra migration in Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana.
• Ideal gorilla trekking conditions in Uganda during its drier period in January to February.

Best destinations to visit in January

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Safaris in February

February is one of the best times for big game viewing in Africa, with Tanzania and Kenya offering exceptional safari tours as they escape the heavy rains. A dry spell brings prime gorilla trekking opportunities and abundant wildlife sightings, with adorable baby animals making their debut to steal your heart.

The Southern Serengeti comes alive with the wildebeest calving season , where massive herds gather and predators prowl, creating unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Highlights on a safari in February

• Exceptional big game viewing in Tanzania and Kenya, escaping the heavy rains of other regions.
• Thrilling predator action in the Southern Serengeti during the wildebeest calving season.
• Ideal gorilla trekking conditions in East Africa during a dry spell between the long and short rains.
• Botswana’s salt pans filling up and attracting an array of wildlife.
• Cuteness overload with the presence of numerous baby animals in various regions.

Best destinations to visit in February

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Safaris in March

March is an exciting time to visit Tanzania , with the Great Migration in full swing and a multitude of newborn wildebeest joining the herds. Witness the captivating spectacle of large wildebeest groups traversing northward from their breeding grounds in the Southern Serengeti, with adorable calves in tow.

South Africa is a great choice for a safari in March, offering milder weather, fewer visitors, and excellent wildlife sightings in places like Sabi Sands Game Reserve.

Highlights on a safari in March

• The Great Migration in Tanzania, with huge herds of wildebeest on the move.
• Newborn wildebeest calves joining the migration in the Southern Serengeti.
• Excellent wildlife viewing in Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa.
• Fewer visitors in South Africa, providing a more exclusive experience.

Best destinations to visit in March

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Safaris in April

April brings an extraordinary transformation to Africa’s wilderness, with the Serengeti buzzing with the activity of the Great Migration and the southern landscapes bathed in the lushness of the rainy season.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta transforms into a water paradise, offering unforgettable mokoro adventures and spectacular wildlife retreats on Chief’s Island. The awe-inspiring sight of Victoria Falls in peak flow is a must-see, a humbling experience that highlights the power and majesty of nature.

Highlights on a safari in April

• Witness the peak of the Great Migration’s activity in the Serengeti despite East Africa’s unpredictable weather.
• Safari areas in southern Africa thrive after the passing of the rains, offering lush green landscapes and exceptional birding opportunities.
• Explore Botswana’s Okavango Delta as floodwaters arrive, providing unique dugout canoe experiences and rewarding walking safaris.
• Victoria Falls reaches its peak flow , offering a humbling and awe-inspiring sight.
• Enjoy walking safaris and game drives on Chief’s Island as wildlife retreats due to rising water levels in the Okavango Delta.

Best destinations to visit in April

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Safaris in May

May emerges as a captivating month for safari enthusiasts, particularly in the realms of Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and the picturesque landscapes of Namibia . As East Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania, is engulfed by the climax of its heavy rains, the predictability of each day becomes an exciting gamble. Conversely, in southern Africa, the curtain falls on the green season, gradually thinning out the bush and drawing animals towards perennial water sources.

This shift to the dry winter season is complemented by mild weather, setting the stage for optimal wildlife viewing experiences. Furthermore, the allure of pristine beach holiday destinations such as Mauritius and Mozambique heightens, with dry days and cozy temperatures offering a serene backdrop. With the rains receding in East Africa, opportunistic travelers can seize low-season deals, making May a treasure trove of diverse experiences.

Highlights on a safari in May

• The end of the green season in southern Africa, leading to clearer views and animals congregating around permanent water sources.
• East Africa’s rainy crescendo: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania see their heaviest rainfall which presents a golden opportunity with low-season deals.
• Beach getaways beckon: Mauritius and Mozambique offer dry days with comfortable temperatures.

Best destinations to visit in May

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Safaris in June

June marks a pivotal moment in the safari calendar, transitioning from the rains into the iconic ‘dry season which is one of the best times to visit Africa. This shift drastically elevates game-viewing experiences across the continent. From the spectacular vistas of Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater to the mystique of gorilla trekking in Rwanda, East Africa paints a vivid canvas, albeit with a minor chance of rain. Meanwhile, southern Africa unfurls its splendor, with South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe showcasing prime safari encounters.

The subsequent dry months, spanning from June to September, become the apex for wildlife enthusiasts. During June and July, the Western Corridor of the Serengeti pulsates with the drama of the wildebeest migration , especially as these majestic herds attempt treacherous Grumeti River crossings.

Along South Africa’s eastern coastline, the marine world is in a frenzy with the awe-inspiring sardine run. This natural spectacle, featuring billions of migrating sardines pursued by an ensemble of sharks, dolphins, whales, and seabirds, is a visual feast for any visitor.

Highlights on a safari in June

• The transition from rainy to iconic ‘dry season’ across Africa.
• Exceptional game-viewing experiences in Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater .
• Mystical gorilla trekking opportunities in Rwanda.
• Prime safari encounters in southern Africa, notably in South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
• Perfect beach retreats with clear days in Mozambique.
• Dramatic wildebeest migration in the Western Corridor of the Serengeti, particularly the Grumeti River crossings in June and July.
• The unparalleled sardine run on South Africa’s east coast, with billions of sardines being trailed by sharks, dolphins, whales, and seabirds.

Best destinations to visit in June

Greater Kruger Safari Short and Sweet

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Safaris in July

In July, the African landscape transforms as the dry season reaches its pinnacle, making it one of the most exceptional times to embark on a safari. Every park in each country showcases nature in its full splendor, making the decision on the best game destination quite challenging.

July heralds the peak season, with virtually all regions offering unparalleled safari experiences . Gorilla trekking in Rwanda becomes a treasured activity, with the conditions becoming ideal. Over in the Indian Ocean, the tranquil and warm waters of Mozambique beckon , although certain parts of Mauritius experience slightly gustier winds.

Uganda and Rwanda, although typically damp throughout the year, witness reduced rainfalls, further enhancing the gorilla trekking experience . However, South Africa’s winter chill sets in, making its sun-soaked beaches and attractions like Cape Town more suited for summer visits.

A standout during this month is the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Despite being the heart of the dry season, the delta boasts high water levels, ideal for dugout-canoe adventures. Victoria Falls presents itself in a photographer’s dream setting with moderate water volumes and minimal spray obstructions.

Highlights on a safari in July

• July is the optimal time for safaris across Africa, with every park in full swing.
• Ideal conditions in Rwanda make gorilla trekking a prime activity in July.
• The Indian Ocean boasts warm and calm waters in Mozambique
• The Okavango Delta in Botswana has high water levels in the dry season, perfect for dugout-canoe trips.
• Victoria Falls offers great photo opportunities with moderate water volumes
• Massive herds of elephants convene in Tanzania’s Tarangire National Park and around the Chobe River in Botswana.

Best destinations to visit in July

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Safaris in August

August, sitting at the core of the dry season, is undeniably the pinnacle for safaris, offering unparalleled experiences throughout Africa. As the Great Migration majestically progresses from the northern Serengeti into Kenya, it competes for the title of the continent’s most magnificent safari spectacle.

Meanwhile, the impeccable conditions in Rwanda pave the way for pristine gorilla trekking, with clear skies enhancing the experience. In the southern territories, notably in Botswana and Zambia , the safari offerings are world-class, becoming irresistibly enchanting in August.

Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park becomes a magnet for thousands of elephants, while the concluding phase of the Dry season transforms Mana Pools into an ideal backdrop for walking safaris. South Africa’s Namaqualand, typically a semi-desert, undergoes a breathtaking metamorphosis, blossoming into a vast expanse of vibrant flowers by the end of the season.

Highlights on a safari in August

• The Great Migration progresses from the northern Serengeti into Kenya, competing as the continent’s top safari spectacle.
• Rwanda offers pristine gorilla trekking conditions with clear skies.
• Southern territories, especially Botswana and Zambia, provide world-class safari experiences in August.
• Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park attracts thousands of elephants.
• The end of the dry season in Mana Pools is perfect for walking safaris .
• South Africa’s Namaqualand transforms from a semi-desert into a vast expanse of vibrant flowers.

Best destinations to visit in August

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Safaris in September

September is an absolute safari treasure in Africa, with an abundance of wildlife and unforgettable experiences at every turn. Across the continent, the concentration of game is astonishing, making it challenging to choose a destination as virtually every park offers top-tier safari tours .

From the climax of the wildebeest migration with thrilling Mara River crossings in northern Tanzania and Kenya’s Masai Mara to the awe-inspiring sight of whales along South Africa’s southern coast, peaking in Hermanus during their annual whale festival.

Highlights on a safari in September

• Exceptional wildlife viewing across the continent due to high concentrations of game in many parks.
• Thrilling climax of the wildebeest migration, with epic river crossings in northern Tanzania and Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve.
• Experience the annual whale festival in Hermanus  offering the best opportunities to see these majestic giants.
• Long dry season ending in Rwanda around mid-September, providing an optimal climate for various activities.
• Rising temperatures in the Indian Ocean as the region moves out of winter, making it a great time for beachside activities .

Best destinations to visit in September

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Safaris in October

October in Africa is a thrilling time for safari enthusiasts, offering incredible wildlife encounters and picturesque landscapes. As animals search for water, witness magnificent elephant herds congregating along the Chobe River or a diverse array of species gathering at waterholes in Namibia’s Etosha National Park .

Despite the onset of the first rains, the majority of regions still provide excellent game-viewing opportunities, and the incoming showers are a refreshing respite from the soaring temperatures, enhancing the overall safari experience.

Highlights on a safari in October

• Exceptional wildlife viewing, with animals congregating at water sources.
• Massive elephant herds gathering along the Chobe River, offering incredible sightings.
• Diverse species sharing waterholes in Namibia’s Etosha National Park, creating unique photo opportunities.
• Thousands of hippos crowding the remaining river pools in Tanzania’s Katavi National Park .
• Continuation of the wildebeest migration across the Masai Mara National Reserve.
• The first rains of the season provide a refreshing break from the high temperatures of the dry season.
• Rising temperatures in Mozambique and Mauritius as these countries move towards their summer months.

Best destinations to visit in October

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Safaris in November

November is a hidden gem in the safari calendar. Despite the onset of rains, savvy travelers can enjoy low visitor numbers, discounted rates at lodges, and vibrant landscapes that come alive with migratory birds in their resplendent breeding plumage.

Furthermore, the summer months usher in the magical sight of sea turtles laying eggs on South Africa’s beaches, making it a truly special time to explore the continent’s natural wonders.

Highlights on a safari in November

• Low visitor numbers for a more exclusive safari experience.
• Discounted rates at lodges offer excellent value.
• Lush landscapes and the return of vibrant greenery.
• Fantastic birding with migratory species and birds in breeding plumage.
• Sea turtles laying eggs on South Africa’s sandy beaches.
• Start of summer in Mozambique and Mauritius with high temperatures and occasional afternoon thundershowers.

Best destinations to visit in November

Book a November Safari

Safaris in December

As the wet season begins in southern Africa, the landscape transforms into a verdant paradise, with waterholes replenishing and wildlife dispersing into smaller groups. Although many regions close for the season, South Africa offers enduring game-viewing experiences.

The most mesmerizing spectacle is Botswana’s ‘Emerald Season’ where rain beckons over 20,000 zebras to embark on Africa’s longest mammal migration from the Chobe River to Nxai Pan National Park – an unforgettable sight!

Highlights on a safari in December

• Discounted rates at safari lodges offer excellent value .
• Start of summer in Mozambique and Mauritius

Best destinations to visit in December

In conclusion, each month in Africa offers a distinct and magical safari experience, shaped by the seasonal dynamics of this diverse continent. From the vibrant greenery and abundant wildlife of the ‘Green Season’ to the dramatic wildlife encounters of the dry months, there’s no wrong time to embark on a safari.

Whether you’re drawn by the allure of the Great Migration, the thrill of big game viewing, or the charm of quieter, less-traveled paths, Africa’s wilderness beckons with open arms. Remember, the best time for a safari is not just about the weather or wildlife; it’s about what you seek from this once-in-a-lifetime journey. So, pick your month, book your safari, and prepare to be enchanted by the wonders of Africa.

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The Best Time to Go on Safari

The best time for an African safari is typically from July through October, when the animals are easy to find and in substantial numbers. Deciding when to go on safari depends on what country you would like to visit and when you can plan your trip. Seasons differ in East and Southern Africa so you can plan an excellent safari for almost every month of the year if you are flexible about where you want to go to.

Below you'll find a country-specific guide for the absolute best time to plan a safari. A month-by-month guide for the best country to visit for a safari is also included. The last part of this article is for if you're looking for animal-specific safaris, like a gorilla or a chimpanzee safari.

The best time to go on safari in Kenya and experience a vast density and diversity of wildlife is when the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gnu descend on the Mara plains with predators close behind. The best time to see this wildlife spectacle is from July to October. Other parks in Kenya are also excellent and the best time to visit these would be during the dry seasons —January through March and July through October.

With the scarcity of water during the dry seasons, the animals tend to gather in more concentrated numbers around permanent waterholes, rivers, and lakes, so they are easier to find. The vegetation is also less lush which means that viewing animals from a distance is easier.

If you want to see the Great Migration unfold, head to Tanzania's northern parks : the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. The best time to witness the migration is probably February through March when the wildebeest and zebra have their young. Not only can you enjoy seeing baby animals, but the predators are at the highest number too. Because the herds also concentrate in the south of the Serengeti, it's easy to plan your wildlife viewing in that area and find a safari company that offers lodging there.

June to November is Tanzania's dry season and is the best time to visit all the parks (and you can always hop over to Kenya's Masai Mara to witness the Great Migration during this time). Tanzania's Southern Parks are perfect to visit during this time since the animals tend to congregate around permanent water and it isn't so hot and humid.

All of Tanzania's parks suffer from the rains which generally fall from March to May in the North, and from November to May in the South and West. Roads get washed out and given the sheer size of Tanzania's parks, the animals tend to spread out, and this makes wildlife viewing less satisfying (if you're looking for sheer numbers of animals).

December through March can get quite hot and humid, especially in Western and Southern Tanzania which makes it a little uncomfortable to spend a lot of time in the bush.

Uganda has some magnificent National Parks which are best visited from December through March or June through September when it is predominantly dry. Most people who choose Uganda as a safari destination go to see the Mountain Gorillas . Although rain is likely all year round, the rainy seasons make the trek up to the gorillas particularly tricky, so avoid the months of March and April or October and November.

The best time to enjoy Zambia's wildlife is from September through mid-November which is the end of the dry season. Elephants abound and large herds of buffalo, impala, zebra, and others congregate in the Lower Zambezi Valley. April to September is also a good time to go, but beyond these months many parks in Zambia all but shut down due to impassable roads. In November, there's a smaller version of the Great Migration where 30,000 wildebeest gather in Zambia's Liuwa Plain National Park, that's not witnessed by many, but worth trying to plan a trip around.

July to October is the best time to go to Zimbabwe's excellent wildlife parks, especially Hwange, the largest game reserve in the country. Whitewater rafting on the Zambezi is best from August to December when the water is low, and the rapids are fast.

The Victoria Falls are at their most impressive in March and April after the rainy season. You may have difficulty seeing all of the falls due to massive amounts of spray it can be quite torrential.

June through September is the best time to go on safari in Botswana . There is little chance of rain, and the weather is still lovely and warm during the day. Huge herds congregate around the Okavango Delta during this time, making a trip in a mokoro (traditional canoe) extremely rewarding.

Botswana is one of Africa's most expensive safari destinations because many of the parks are inaccessible by road and you have to charter a small plane to get there. If you have your heart set on Botswana's excellent parks, but can't quite afford them, check out some of the shoulder season deals in April, May, and October.

Etosha National Park is Namibia's prime safari destination and the best time to visit is from May to September. This is Namibia's dry season (despite being mostly desert , there are still seasons in Namibia!) and animals congregate around the water holes making viewing easier.

Many birders come to Namibia, and the best time to visit is during the summer months from December to March, but be prepared for some scorching and humid weather.

South Africa

The prime safari areas in South Africa around Kruger National Park are best visited from June through September when the weather is cooler and dry. But South Africa's wildlife parks have better infrastructure than most parks in Africa, so rains don't necessarily mean the roads will be washed out. There are also many excellent game parks in South Africa's Eastern Cape region which experience less rain during the winter months than in the north of the country.

When to go on a safari sometimes depends on when you can take a vacation. If you're looking for the best safari experience and don't mind what country you go to, this is a useful guide for you. It's month by month account of the best animal viewing opportunities in Africa.

• January is prime safari time in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The weather is usually dry, and the animals will congregate in dense numbers around permanent water supplies. The migrating wildebeest, zebra, and gnu can be found in Tanzania's northern parks during this time of year particularly in the southern Ndutu and Salei plains.
• February is one of the best months to go on safari in Tanzania's northern parks because thousands of wildebeest are usually born around this time. Most of the wildebeest give birth within the same three week period. If you like baby animals , Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are all perfect this time of year. Southern Tanzania can get quite hot and humid this time of year, so stick to the northern parks if you think the weather will bother you.
• March: East Africa is still the place to be in early March if you're looking for the best safari experience in Africa. Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are still in their dry season, and the density and diversity of animals can't be matched elsewhere this month. If you're visiting Uganda and want to see the gorillas, you should avoid March.
• April is a good month for those looking for discounted safaris because the rains usually start in East Africa and are on their way out in Southern Africa. Rains bring plentiful water, and the animals tend to disperse making them harder to find while on safari. Vegetation begins to get very lush which can obstruct your views of the animals. And perhaps most importantly, the dirt roads in national parks can get washed out and become impassable. You can still enjoy an excellent safari in Tanzania without the crowds, especially in the northern parks. Southern Africa is coming into its own in April with cooler, drier weather. Botswana and Namibia are good bets for April. The Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe) are at their most spectacular in April with the start of the heavy rains. They are easily combined with a visit to any Southern African safari destination.
• In May , the best country to go on safari is probably Zambia. Zambia offers a genuinely wild African safari (and the best walking safaris), and there aren't too many months when the parks can operate at full tilt, so you have to take advantage of it when you can. The rest of Southern Africa is good as well though as the dry season is well on its way. If you have your heart set on an East African safari, May isn't the best time to go, but you'll still see a lot of animals, especially in Tanzania. Make sure the camps and lodges you wish to go to are open. You should be able to get some excellent discounts.
• June: Southern Africa is heading into its best safari period by June. South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia enjoy their high season this time of year. Be prepared for some chilly nights and bring a jacket for the early morning drives.
• July - September: Take your pick of destination from July to September. Every major safari destination is primed for business. Kenya's Masai Mara lays out the green carpet for millions of migrating wildebeest. This is the time for those spectacular river crossings with the crocodiles lying in wait for feeble wildebeest to stumble into their watering jaws. Southern African parks are dry and packed with diversity which you can enjoy from your lodge bar overlooking a waterhole. Since this is also when the northern hemisphere takes their summer vacation, parks can get crowded and booked up well in advance. If you're looking for a budget safari, try a different season.
• October: Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Tanzania are the best places for a safari in October. The small rainy season has usually not arrived yet and the months of dry weather makes game viewing very rewarding.
• November: While Southern Africa begins its rainy season with significant heat and humidity, Zambia is still a good destination for a safari because of a unique wildlife event that takes place in Liuwa Plain National Park. A smaller version of the great East African migration takes place, and for safari aficionados, this can be very exciting to witness. Unfortunately, the rest of Zambia's parks during this time aren't at their peak, but game viewing is still fair. Northern Tanzania is the best place to go on safari in November, as the migrating herds make their way back to the Serengeti plains. If you're a birder, Botswana's Okavango Delta begins to fill up with migrating birds this month, starting their breeding season (which lasts until March).
• December: East Africa reigns once again as the best safari destination if you'd like to spend Christmas in the bush. Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda enjoy some dry weather and excellent game viewing.

Best Times to See Specific Animals

• Gorillas are actually a year-round attraction since their habitat has been reduced so significantly, they couldn't roam far even if they wanted to. However, tracking gorillas is hard at the best of times, and during the rainy season, the steep paths and mud can make it almost impossible to manage. Very heavy rain also makes it more difficult to take good photos, and since you only have an hour with the gorillas, it would be a shame not to get a good snapshot or two. The main rainy seasons in Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC are from March to April and October to November.
• Chimpanzee safaris can be found in Western Tanzania and Uganda. Like gorilla safaris, they can take place year-round but the rainy season makes walking in the forests a little tougher, and the photo opportunities aren't as good as in the dry season (July through October and December). However, the rain also means the chimpanzees don't have to roam too far to find water, and they are easier to locate (February-June, November-mid December).
• Whales: South Africa offers some of the world's best whale watching especially if you don't fancy going out on a boat, but would like to see them from the shore. The best time to view whales is from June to November when the Cape coast comes alive with hundreds of southern-right whales. You can also see humpbacks, Bryde's whales, and orcas.
• Birds: The best time to see birds in Southern Africa is between November and March. South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Angola, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi are all excellent destinations for birders, and many birding safaris are available. In East Africa, the best time to go birding is January through March. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Ethiopia are all popular birding destinations. West Africa also offers a huge and exciting variety of birds, the best time to visit Cameroon, the Gambia, and other destinations are during the European winter from November to March.

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When’s the best time to go on safari in Africa?

An African safari is the ultimate bucket list trip, so you want to make sure you go at the right time.

The journey will take you across vast, ever-changing landscapes and give you an up-close look at some of the world’s most beautiful animals in their natural environment. You’ll probably want to pack your bags as soon as you start imagining the awesome journey, but a little planning ahead of time can make your trip that little bit more magical.

When is the best time for a safari in Africa?

The best time to go on safari is between June and October, during the dry season. This is a cooler time of the year and you are more likely to see animals, who are searching for water sources. During these months, you can also catch the iconic Masai Mara migration.

Here is a breakdown of some of the best countries to visit, when to go, and the perfect trips for you.

Safaris from January to February

Giraffe crossing in Serengeti National Park

The Great Migration of wildebeests from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Masai Mara is awe-inspiring, to say the least. The precise timing of it is dependent upon rainfall patterns each year, meaning you can see different aspects of it at different times: the mass birthing of calves between January and March in the southern Serengeti, and river crossings between July and August.

In addition to wildebeests, safari-goers will also have the chance to spot Africa’s most famous predator, lions. Prides of lions will follow the herds for the prime hunting opportunity they present. Cheetahs, wild dogs and hyenas also make appearances as they try to take down vulnerable members of the herd. If you’re lucky, you might even see a wildebeest or zebra giving birth.

Read more: 7 reasons why your next adventure should be in Tanzania

Tip from Intrepid’s Africa Product Manager, Jenny:

Have an open mind! A lot of travelers have this unrealistic expectation of seeing river crossings with thousands and thousands of wildebeest (and the odd crocodile) battling it out in the ultimate scene from National Geographic! The migration is a natural phenomenon and no year is the same as the last. That being said, it is magical!

Safaris from March to April

South africa.

Herd of impalas in Kruger National Park

South Africa is pretty much your one stop shop for everything a good African holiday is made of. It’s also incredibly good value. Consider heading there in March and April for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. These two summer months fall in the country’s wet season, but the rains really do open the door to some of the best wildlife-spotting opportunities.

Kruger National Park, the region’s most famous National Park, not only has the big five (and more!), but is also close to the vibrant, underrated city of Johannesburg.

Read more: 6 reasons why South Africa is a destination with something for everyone

But any time is a good time to visit South Africa. Cape Town offers food, wine, shopping, dreamy views, and activities for all ages. Just outside it lies the popular wine region, located on the Western Cape. You simply can’t go wrong!

If you don’t want to sit in a vehicle all day, our exciting new active itinerary is a great shout. It’s a 9-day cycling and hiking trip through South Africa, and lets you hike Table Mountain, bike through Stellenbosh winery region, and so much more.

The weather is fairly temperate throughout the entire year here so visiting in any season is an option, but it’s a little rainier from June to September. A few months before this time is hot, but not too hot.

The Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best places to go on a safari adventure. The park’s sweeping mountains and deep valleys, the result of erosive activity, are covered in the deep green of alpine forests. Animals living in the park include caracals, leopards, jackals, hyenas, bushbucks, klipspringers and hundreds of species of birds. Safari-goers might also glimpse the rate Simien fox or Walia ibex.

Fall in love with Ethiopia on this amazing 15-day trip  or explore our range of small group adventures in Ethiopia . 

Etosha National Park, Namibia. Image by Rebecca Dannock.

The wildlife viewing opportunities in the desert-filled country of Namibia might surprise (and delight) you. Many different African animals have adapted to live in the harsh-but-beautiful Namib, a coastal desert. Herds of elephants traverse the desert, as do different types of antelope, zebra and even lions. Outside the desert, March can be humid and rainy, but April tends to be drier. The rains that fall early in the year make much of the country verdant in April.

Travel from Vic Falls to Cape Town and discover the highlights of Namibia

Safaris from May to June

May and June are winter months in Madagascar, but the island’s proximity to the equator means pleasant temperatures during the coolest months of the year. You’ll also see particularly lush landscapes in May and June, and these two months are considered part of the low season; there won’t be throngs of tourists.

Read more: 8 reasons why Madagascar should be on your bucket list

For the daring traveler who craves unique experiences, Madagascar is an essential destination. The island is rich in wildlife with hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals. The majority of the flora and fauna in Madagascar are endemic – they live naturally nowhere else in the entire world. Take a safari to glimpse lemurs swinging through the trees and the masters of disguise, chameleons.

Experience the undiscovered island of Madagascar on this magical 16-day trip  or check out our full range of Madagascar adventures

18-month-old lioness in Zimbabwe

In Zimbabwe, May is a transitional month with elements of both wet and dry seasons. The recent rains leave the land looking lush and green, but as the month progresses the weather becomes drier and the nighttime temperatures begin to drop. Come June, the days are warm and pleasant, while the nights are chilly. This time of year is the peak season for safaris. The drier weather draws animals to the country’s rivers and watering holes. Keep a lookout for lions, leopards, rhinos, zebras, elephants and more.

Read more: Here’s why you should visit Victoria Falls

Safaris from July to August

July and August are right in the midst of Rwanda’s dry season (which takes place from June through to September). These two months are very popular for booking gorilla trekking adventures because of the clear skies and sunny conditions. The gorillas live in Rwanda’s rainforests, mainly within the bounds of Volcanoes National Park. Here, you can also see chimpanzees and colobus monkeys living among the trees. Keep in mind that gorilla habitat is, by default, very wet and you can’t avoid rain completely. However, after heavy rain, the skies often open up to bright sunshine.

The permits are a flat price year round and just last week got hiked up from $750 USD to $1500 USD effective immediately. Luckily, Intrepid has pre-purchased permits on our group trips which means we are able to honor existing 2017 prices. So, when is the best time to go? Now, before it gets too expensive!

Go gorilla trekking in Rwanda (and so much more!) on this epic 16-day trip

Hippos in Moremi Game Reserve

The Okavango Delta, Moremi and Chobe are among Botswana’s most popular parks and animal-spotting destinations. The best time to visit them is from May to September, during the dry season and winter, which results in more moderate temperatures.

Photo essay: What it’s really like on an Intrepid safari in Botswana

There is also less vegetation during these months, so animals tend to concentrate around waterholes and rivers, making wildlife easier to spot. The Okavango Delta is also in full flood then. The skies are clear, rain is rare and there are fewer mosquitoes. It does get cold at night and in the mornings, so packing warm winter clothing during June, July and August for the cold morning game drives is advisable.

Check out the highlights of Botswana on this life-changing 9-day trip  or explore our range of Botswana adventures

Safaris from September to October

There is some light rainfall in September and October, but these two months are still part of the dry season in Ghana. You won’t have to worry about heavy rains causing flooding or travel delays. Birdwatchers will love taking a canopy tour through Kakum National Park – you can spot guinea fowl, African grey parrots and many other types of birds flitting through the trees. The national park is also home to forest elephants, civets, leopards, pangolins, a variety of monkeys and more.

Other wildlife hotspots include the Ankasa Rain Forest, the Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary and Mole National Park.

See West Africa’s wildlife on this awe-inspiring 21-day trip through Ghana, Togo and Benin

Cheetah siblings in the Maasai Mara

With more than 40 national parks and reserves, Kenya is a dream destination for safaris. This country draws tourists year-round, but September and October have certain advantages. These months are part of the dry season and the weather is also cooler. During these months, you can also catch the iconic Masai Mara migration (guide here ). The mass movement of these animals will attract larger predators, including lions.

Visit some of Kenya’s finest game parks (and see the Big 5) on this 8-day adventure or check out our full range of Kenya adventures

September heralds the beginning of springtime in Eswatini, a fairly dry time of year. Hlane Royal National Park and Mkhaya Game Reserve are ideal destinations for safari-goers who want to get close to animals like elephants, rhinos, buffalo, leopards and lions. In addition to these big mammals, Eswatini is also home to zebras, a variety of antelope, giraffes, hundreds of bird species and more.

Hit up Eswatini’s wonders (and South Africa) on this 9-day ‘Kruger and Coast’ trip

Safaris from November to December

Ivory coast.

November and December are the first two months of the warm and dry season in Ivory Coast. The temperate weather and minimal rainfall are ideal for travelers. And Taï National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is perfect for wildlife seekers. The park protects a tropical rainforest and its inhabitants include chimpanzees, pygmy hippos, leopards, colobus monkeys, flying squirrels, two species of bat, a variety of birds and much more.

This epic 28-day trip covers four countries in West Africa (the beautiful Ivory Coast included)

This low season also takes place in March and April and the pay-off is well worth it. Why? Well, as Jenny, Intrepid’s Africa Product Manager puts it, “Without the crowds you could find yourself trekking the gorillas with as little as 2 or 3 other people”. She adds that “it’s unlikely to rain all day. You’ll get a downpour at some stage each day, or even light rain on and off, but there are plenty of blue sky days as well.”

Explore the Ugandan rainforest and more on this incredible 21-day trip. Or, if you’re pressed for time, check out this 4-day gorilla short break in Uganda.

A note on the rainy season: don’t dismiss it!

Generally distinguished as the low season in Africa, the ‘green season’ is characterized by frequent rains. It’s a great option for travelers who can live with a bit of rain, and a bit more of a challenge when it comes to animal spotting. The vegetation is thick, and the grass high making wildlife harder to spot, and water is plenty so you don’t get a lot of animals congregating around waterholes.

What you do get is incredible, lush, green landscapes. Most animals give birth at the beginning of the rainy season so you will see plenty of newborns. It’s also a bird lover’s paradise with flowers in bloom and many migratory birds arriving back in the area from as far as Asia or Europe. The Serengeti and Masai Mara may be home to the world’s largest annual migration but green season Botswana hosts part of the longest recorded migration! Thousands of Burchell’s zebras cover more than 500km in a straight line across Namibia and Botswana.

It really is a great option for those second-time visitors to Africa who have been there, done that, seen the Big 5 and want to experience something ‘different’. Some destinations like Botswana in particular look like an entirely different place from one season to the other and it’s pretty amazing to see both ends of the spectrum, and you can get some incredible savings for traveling at this time of year. For example, travel on our new Okavango Delta Fly-in Safari in low season and you could be saving yourself about $1500 USD per person (as opposed to high season).

Ready to explore Africa on safari? Check out our wide range of small group trips.

Carrie Pallardy

Carrie Pallardy is a Chicago-based writer and editor. Despite just returning from a trip to New Zealand, her wish list of places to travel is nearly endless. She plans to travel to every continent and every national park in the U.S., and, of course, loves to write about her experiences traveling near and far.

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When is the best time to go on an African safari?

Most believe the best time to go on an African safari is during the dry season, which runs from June to October (for the majority of African safari hotspots). At this time of year, animals are easier to spot as they congregate at water sources.

However, the wet season also has its merits for a thoroughly enjoyable African safari. During these months there are fewer visitors to the parks, offering a more private safari experience, where you can enjoy the abundance of wildlife, birds and green savannah in relative seclusion.

How to choose the time of your safari visit in Africa?

One of the most difficult decisions to make while planning a safari is deciding the time of year to visit. The truth is, it all depends on what kind of wildlife you want to see , your specific destination, your price range, and your weather preferences.

We specialize in East African safaris, so have focused our attention on this region.

Keep reading to learn more about the unique offerings of an African safari during every season.

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The best time to go on safari in east africa.

Most tourists choose to go on safari in East Africa during the winter months of June to October. At this time, the weather in East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania , Rwanda and Uganda ) is typically dry and sunny, making it excellent for spotting wildlife on game drives.

The coldest months in this region are during the dry season, which falls between June and October, with average temperatures in the 70s (Fahrenheit).

March through May and October through December are the rainiest seasons , and the wettest month is usually May. The driest and hottest month is January.

Check out our country-by-country guide below…

When to go on a safari to Kenya

• January to March: The dry season offers great game viewing and cheaper prices, a win-win.
• April to June: A safari might be muddy during the peak rainy season, but this is the best time to beat the crowds and get the most value out of your trip.
• July to September: This is the most popular (and most expensive!) time for a safari, as this is the best time to see the wildebeest herds on the move during the Great Migration.
• October to December: This short rainy season is ideal for spotting baby animals and migratory birds.

Best time to visit Safari in Tanzania

• January to March : Animals are fewer in Tarangire National Park , but birds are plentiful during this time of year.
• April to June : As Tanzania’s rainy season, you can see newborn animals at lower prices.
• July to September : Dry season provides the best wildlife viewing, but with this comes higher prices.
• October to December : This short rainy season offers more affordability and fewer crowds. You also can see the migration herds making their way through central Serengeti .

The best time to visit Uganda

• January to March: One of the best times for a safari is in January and February when conditions are excellent for game viewing. It gets rainier in March, and with the rain comes fewer crowds. Even with the rain, you will still likely see quite a few animals.
• April to June: While April and May are typically wetter months, June marks the beginning of another dry season, ideal conditions for a safari.
• July to September: July and August provide the perfect weather for trekking to see gorillas and chimpanzees. In September, the rainy season begins again.
• October to December: While October and November have lots of rain, December is the beginning of the next dry season, creating ideal safari conditions.

When to go on a safari in Rwanda

• January to March: Expect a rainy season in the Nyungwe Forest , with a few dry patches in January. Look for discounts on gorilla permits during this time of year.
• April to June: In the Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Park , April and May are the rainiest months of the year.
• July to September: This is the driest weather of the year, and it’s perfect for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda . This is the best time to go on an African safari in Rwanda.
• October to December: October and November are stormy in the Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Park, but December offers a break from the rain.

What to expect from Africa’s weather

Africa’s seasons are very different to those of Europe and north America. And although the continent’s climate can appear too complicated to understand at first, it’s actually very simple.

Instead of four seasons (spring, summer, fall, and winter) with different weather conditions, Africa’s climate is best divided into wet and dry seasons. This is especially true in the destinations of the best Africa trips such as Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda in east Africa.

This is because these nations lie on or very near the equator, splitting the Earth into its northern and southern hemispheres. Countries north of the equator roughly follow the seasonal differences of Europe and north America, while those south of this imaginary line see their seasons flipped by comparison. It means Christmas isn’t dominated by colder weather, but by the height of summer.

Close to the equator itself, countries can be said to have their very own regional climate, which is dominated by the arrival and departure of annual rains.

What are the best months for African safaris?

Given Africa’s intriguing seasonal variabilities, the best months for an African safari are the end of June until October of each year. Heading out on a safari during these months will see you exploring during the long dry season.

From a human perspective, temperatures tend to be some of their lowest of the year , and you might even want a sweater for those early morning game drives. But June to October is also the best time to go on an African safari from the animals’ perspective .

The reason for this is that animals are easier to spot . The vegetation of the plains dies back as the season progresses, so there are less places for animals to hide. At the same time, the lack of water requires animals to seek out remaining waterholes, and driver-guides will know exactly where you’ll be able to find them. Then add to this clear skies perfect for photography and mesmerizing sunsets, and you’ve undoubtedly got the best months for African safaris !

The downside of traveling between June and October is that their superb conditions make them the most popular months to visit east Africa. Prices tend to ramp up for flights and accommodation, and there will be more vehicles seeking out those epic animal encounters on the plains.

Even so, June to October can’t be faulted. But for a full month by month breakdown of reasons to head out on safari, just keep reading!

The start of the short dry season makes January a great alternative pick for a safari. Tanzania’s Tarangire is known for its birds, and Kenya’s Maasai Mara starts to fill with new life as various antelope and herbivore species calve.

During this time of the year, you will experience high temperatures and zero rainfall on the Eastern Cape of South Africa. This weather is ideal for spotting wildlife. To see newborn animals, check out Kenya in January. Fresh rain creates greenery that supports the annual baby boom in this country.

February is the prime green season in Tanzania, where you can spot packs of wild impala, a rare thing to see any other time of year.

Looking for a very special valentine’s day gift? Look no further than Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park in February.

A few thousand zebras make their way from Botswana to Namibia, a total of 480 kilometers. This journey is the longest migration of any African mammal, and this is best seen in southern Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans .

Take advantage of the drier weather conditions to go chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest.

April marks the startof the wet season and offers cooler temperatures, making this a quiet time in the parks. But don’t let that put you off! You will still see plenty of Kalahari lions and migratory birds during this time of year, plus you’ll enjoy a discounted rate.

There’s no doubting May is another wet month. It isn’t usually considered the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, but their mountain forest homes are pretty wet year round and cooler temperatures can bring gorilla families closer to camp. Amidst the wet season, flora and fauna thin out, revealing wildlife formerly hidden by foliage. Botswana in May boasts healthy animals, lower prices, and a good amount of vegetation.

The rains begin to ease, making the end of the month a great option for those looking to avoid peak season. This month is the best time to visit Victoria Falls in Zambia. The lower water levels mean that less spray will obstruct your view of this spectacular waterfall.

July is the height of the dry season in East and Southern Africa, making this one of the best times for a safari. Botswana turns into a wetland, and scenic flights can offer you the best views of this scenery.

Probably the most popular month for gorilla trekking tours in Uganda and Rwanda. Elsewhere, the mass herds of the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park are at their most impressive, making it one of the  best times to visit Tanzania .

Wildebeest and zebra participate in the Great Migration, creating iconic African safari scenes as the animals cross the Mara River. This is a popular time for safaris, as visitors want to experience these scenes, so the crowds of tourists can be off-putting.

September is another popular choice for safari viewing as the dry season continues in East and Southern Africa. The Great Wildebeest Migration moves into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, drawing in with it an impressive array of predators such as lions just waiting for their chance to pounce. Walking safaris and leopard sightings are typical in South Luangwa in Zambia during this time of year.

Showers dominate October’s weather. As the month progresses, Africa’s plains take on a whole new look as plants and grasses regrow. This makes October an increasing favorite with second and third time safari goers.  This month is the best time for an African safari for those who want a more remote viewing experience.

Temperatures begin to rise along with more rains in Southern and East Africa. For those who love birdwatching, check out Mahale Mountains National Park in western Tanzania, featuring plenty of migratory birds, butterflies, and roaring waterfalls.

We’ve written an article all about safaris in November here .

While December has lots of rain and high temperatures, you can still see an abundance of wildlife during this time, plus the crowds are fewer. The Masai Mara has plenty of greenery and elephants, and you will also be able to experience a luxury safari experience for a fraction of the cost.

When is the best time to trek with gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda?

The best time to trek with gorillas in Rwanda is during the long dry season, which runs from mid-May to mid-October. In Uganda, the best time to trek with gorillas is during the country’s two dry seasons, either between January and February or from June to September.

Gorillas can be hard to track, and during the rainy season, muddy paths make it tricker to locate the animals. Therefore, it’s best to avoid the rainy season in Rwanda and Uganda from March to April and October to November .

Because their habitat has been significantly reduced, gorillas don’t have very far to roam and can be seen as a year-round attraction. But be aware that the trek to find them can vary significantly in length, from 2 hours to 8 hours each way.

Chimpanzees

You can find chimpanzees year-round in Western Tanzania and Uganda.

Like gorillas, chimpanzee safaris are more challenging during the rainy season due to the muddy paths . However, chimps might be easier to locate during the rain because they don’t have to travel too far to find water.

The rainy season is from February to June and November to mid-December. For better photos, visit during the dry season, from July to October and December .

Bird watching

You can find plenty of birds in East Africa between January and March.

The best destinations for bird-lovers include Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Kenya.

You will see lions year-round in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve .

Tanzania’s national parks also offer many lion sightings; the high season spans from July through October.

From June to November, the Cape coast in South Africa comes alive with southern-right whales, along with humpbacks and orcas. Much of the sea life can be seen from the shore, so there’s no need to spot marine life via boat.

The Great Migration

The best times to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration are August and September , and you will also be more likely to see a river crossing during these months.

What time of day is best for a safari?

The best time of day to see abundant wildlife on a safari is early in the morning and in the evening before the sun goes down. The animals are more active either before the sun comes up or as the sun is setting. As a bonus, the temperatures will generally be milder during these times of the day.

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• Best Time to Go

Temperature When is the best time to go on an African safari?

• Late June to October: during the dry season are the best wildlife viewing months
• June and July:  best chance of seeing the Great migration in the Serengeti
• Late January to February: best time to see wildebeest calving
• June to October (Dry Season): best time to visit the southern and western circuit parks
• Year-round: Popular northern circuit parks
• Best weather: June to October
• July to October: Usually the wildebeest migration reaches the Masai Mara
• November to May: Low season
• Year-Round: Great for wildlife viewing, but can differ for some parks.

South Africa:

• May to September (Dry Season): Best time to visit since wildlife congregate around waterholes and rivers
• October to April: Best time for bird watching and bird migration
• Best weather: April to May and September to October
• May to September (Dry Season and Winter): Best time to visit Botswana’s most popular parks including Okavango Delta, Moremi, and Chobe
• Year-round: wildlife viewing is good, but can different depending on park
• Best weather: April and May
• June to August and December to February (Dry Season): Best time for for gorilla trekking due to drier months and best time for wildlife game viewing
• March, April and May: Peak wet season
• Best weather: June to July and January to February
• June to September (Dry Season): Best months for wildlife game viewing and for gorilla trekking
• October to May: Best time for chimpanzee trekking
• Best weather: June to August

• Namibia can be visited year-round- climate generally dry and pleasant
• June to October (Dry Season): Best time for wildlife game viewing in all park especially in Etosha
• October to April: Best time for migratory birds and bird viewing
• May to October (Dry Season): Best time for wildlife game viewing
• November to April (Wet Season): Most parks and camps close down
• June to September: Best time to visit Victoria Falls- water is mid-to-low and water spray does not block fall views
• Best weather: April, May and September
• May to September: Best time to visit
• May to September: Best time to see Victoria falls- water is mid-to-low and water spray does not block fall views

Related Articles:

• TripSavvy- “ The Best Time to Go on Safari “

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Where to go on your first safari in Africa

Feb 20, 2024 • 17 min read

Botswana is an excellent choice for a well-rounded, first-time safari – though it can be a pricey one © Getty Images

So you want to see a lion in the wild? Terrific. Now comes the tricky part: choosing where to go on your first safari.

Which countries offer the easiest introduction to the continent for first-time travelers? Which countries are best for wildlife?

Let us help you cut through the overwhelming options and plan your first safari to Africa for blockbuster wildlife watching – without feeling overwhelmed.

Planning a safari in Botswana

Why botswana.

Water-based safaris, exclusivity, privacy and high-quality camps in captivating areas: Botswana is one of Africa’s premier wildlife-watching destinations. Its prolific wildlife inhabits extraordinary landscapes, including the Chobe River, the Okavango Delta  and the salt pans of Makgadikgadi .

The easiest choice for your trip,  Chobe National Park is home to the world’s largest concentration of elephants, as well as a host of easy-to-spot big cats, buffaloes, giraffes and zebras, making it perfect for first-timers. The best way to see Africa’s elephant capital is to board a boat and cruise the Chobe River’s wildlife-rich shores. From here, you can travel into the Okavango Delta, where you can splurge on a luxury safari and take a mokoro  (dugout canoe) through the wetlands, before forging on into the Makgadikgadi salt pans to mingle with meerkats.

Botswana’s appeal and ease, however, come with a (big) caveat: the cost. To avoid the pitfalls of mass tourism, most luxury lodges and camps lie in concession areas rented out by the government to enforce a high-value, low-volume responsible-tourism strategy. The best reserves sit in the swamps of the Okavango Delta, and visitors fly in on small bush planes from Maun or Kasane. Mobile safaris – group trips that take you from site to site, often involving camping along the way – are a more cost-effective alternative: you can combine time in  Moremi Game Reserve  with Chobe National Park.

Best time to visit for a safari in Botswana

The high and dry season from June to October is the best wildlife-watching time , and also when water levels are generally at their highest in the Okavango Delta, allowing you to glide along the channels in a mokoro .

Where to stay on safari in Botswana

In and around Chobe National Park, we recommend  Chobe Game Lodge , Chobe Safari Lodge  and Chobe Bakwena , with Chobe Game Lodge being the only one inside the park. For photographers, Pangolin Chobe Hotel has specialist boats with swivel seats and gimbal mounts to snap that Attenborough moment on the Chobe River.

You can combine Chobe with the Okavango Delta through scheduled group mobile safaris with Bush Ways or Letaka . If you’re after a luxury experience in an exceptionally wild, isolated area, Mombo Camp is probably the Okavango’s most exclusive and legendary lodge, with predators galore (and a pretty price tag). Mma Dinare Camp (which offers affordable road transfers), 4 Rivers Camp , Shinde Camp and Camp Moremi are well situated for spotting excellent big game. Xugana Island Lodge , Setari Camp and Mopiri Camp are wonderful for experiencing the waterways, and offer fishing and birding opportunities by boat. Mogotlho Safari Lodge is also accessible for self-drivers, and occupies a lovely position on the Khwai River near Mababe. Want a more adventurous, budget-friendly option? Try a fully catered, accommodated mokoro campout excursion that departs from Sitatunga Camp , south of Maun.

Trips to meet the cute meerkats of the Makgadikgadi salt pans can be arranged through San Camp, Jack’s Camp or Camp Kalahari, with Planet Baobab as the best budget-friendly option with self-drive access.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Botswana

Stays at isolated camps in the Okavango Delta start at roughly $650 per person, per night and can go up to an eye-watering $4000 a night. At approximately $300, Chobe National Park lodges are more affordable – so stretch out your days here to keep costs down. For better pricing on accommodations, travel during the shoulder season (April to May and October to November). Finally, check the distance between your luxury lodge and Maun to reduce the return-ticket cost. Some camps offer road transfers or boating access between camps to minimize travel costs.

Planning a safari in Kenya

Kenya ’s wildlife offering is outstanding, with the Great Migration in particular at the top of many bucket lists – so it’s no surprise that safaris have been a thing in Kenya since the very concept was invented (indeed, safari translates to “journey” in Swahili). Do keep in mind, though, that this track record does make Kenya one of the busiest, most popular wildlife destinations on the continent.

A renowned annual phenomenon, the Great Migration sees millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River from the Serengeti in southern Tanzania into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve . The country’s semi-nomadic Maasai communities and their time-honored warrior traditions are another source of fascination. Visitors can support community-powered tourism by visiting the private reserves surrounding the Mara, which are leased to different safari companies. A guided bush walk with a Maasai warrior will let you experience this culture’s deep connection with the land.

The main safari circuit couples Lake Nakuru with the Masai Mara and Amboseli (where Mt Kilimanjaro provides a staggering backdrop). Tsavo West , Tsavo East and Samburu are popular add-ons, if you have extra time. Any combination of these parks should ensure ample sightings of big cats, plenty of elephants, a few rhinos and all of the plains animals, such as buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and all manner of gazelle and antelope species. Want even more? Extend your stay by another week and scale Mt Kenya , Africa’s second-highest peak (after Kilimanjaro).

Most travelers just pass through Nairobi , staying long enough to visit Nairobi National Park . An extraordinarily well-stocked park on the cusp of one of Africa’s largest cities and easily accessible, Kenya’s original game reserve has wildlife in abundance, from lions, leopards, and buffaloes to the endangered black rhino and around 400 species of birdlife.

Generally, Kenya is viewed as a better choice for family safaris, those on a budget and those on a tight timeline.

Best time to visit for a safari in Kenya

July to October and January to February are the best times to see the Great Migration, when a million-plus wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, cross the crocodile-infested Mara River to graze on the lush grasses of the Masai Mara. With unrestricted visitor numbers, some areas can get crowded.

Where to stay on safari in Kenya

Kenya has hundreds of excellent lodges and tented camps, standards of service from local staff are generally high, and tour operators are experts at the logistics of moving between national parks for each leg of your safari itinerary.

Cottar’s 1920s Camp has entertained guests in high style for over 100 years, while “gentle on the earth” takes on a whole new meaning at Emboo River Camp , whose team will have you floating through the grasslands of the Masai Mara in the region’s first electric game drive vehicles.

Good value but still luxurious, Ol Tukai Lodge sits within Amboseli Park, with views of Kilimanjaro from the bar; nearby Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is a comfortable family-friendly option. In Nairobi,  Giraffe Manor  provides a memorable breakfast spread before a visit to the city’s park; all accommodations in the upmarket Karen and Langata areas are close to the main entrance.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Kenya

Masai Mara National Reserve is the most wallet-friendly location for seeing the wildebeest migration. Despite having a shorter migration season, Kenya has more flights, more tourists, stiffer competition and a greater variety of affordable accommodations than next-door Tanzania. Expect to pay anything from $150 to $1000 per person, per night.

For a cheaper safari, book between the short and long rains (January to March), when prices are usually lower than during the peak season. Nairobi National Park charges $40 to non-residents for entry, while admission to Masai Mara is $80 for 24 hours if you stay outside the reserve, and $70 if you stay inside.

Planning a safari in Namibia

Why namibia.

Two reasons: self-driving independence and dramatic desert scenery. While a 4WD African safari is always an ambitious undertaking, Namibia has good roads, well-equipped campsites and reasonably priced rental vehicles. This is one of the easiest Southern African countries to explore from the driver’s seat.

The classic circuit starts in Windhoek , where you’ll rent a fully equipped 4WD camper van or a decent gravel-road car. From there, you’ll head to Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert for incredible vistas, circle up to Swakopmund for coastal adventures and end at Etosha National Park , where elephants, rhinos and giraffes strut their stuff.

Etosha is Namibia’s version of South Africa’s Kruger National Park, with roads and facilities suitable for a self-driving budget safari. Each public camp overlooks a busy water hole, where game moves in and out to drink during the dry season. The camp is floodlit by night, which means you won’t need to leave once you settle in.

Best time to visit for a safari in Namibia

Etosha is well-known for its productive water holes, and peak game viewing is from June to October, when wildlife flocks to these oases dotted throughout the park. This is also a cooler time of year to climb the dramatic dunes such as  Dune 45 at Sossusvlei.

Where to stay on safari in Namibia

Arranging everything through the  Gondwana Collection is hands-down the easiest and best way to organize a self-driving safari. This group has a portfolio of accommodations in all the key tourist spots, ranging from well-serviced campsites to glamping tents and swank lodges filled with character. Favorites include the quirky Desert Grace and Namib Dune Star Camp (with its alfresco beds) near Sossusvlei, and The Delight in Swakopmund. A sister company,  Namibia2Go , offers car rentals with comprehensive insurance.

As an alternative, you can book campsites and chalets inside the parks with the government-run Namibia Wildlife Resorts . Okaukuejo Rest Camp lies inside the perimeter of Etosha and is the place to watch at the water hole.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Namibia

At about $800, a full week’s vehicle rental is cheaper than a single night’s stay at a luxury lodge in the Okavango Delta. Due to the vast distances between destinations in Namibia, however, fuel expenses can add up fast. National parks and private campsites offer affordable camping fees, though luxury accommodations will (understandably) be more expensive. For camping, expect to pay $20 to $50 per person, per night for camping; for lodges, $100 to $300.

Planning a safari in South Africa

Why south africa.

Expect bush, beach and fine wine. From iconic Kruger National Park to the picturesque landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa offers a safari experience that caters to all levels of adventurers. 

Kruger is the easiest and most rewarding safari destination for first-timers and budget travelers. You can see the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, African wild dogs and hundreds of bird species. Drive the park’s paved roads yourself if you’re on a budget, or visit private reserves like Sabi Sands or Thornybush for exclusive guided experiences, plus a better chance to see the Big Five in a short period.

Lesser-known reserves in KwaZulu-Natal are equally impressive. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is just as accessible as Kruger from the city of Durban , and has excellent facilities for travelers on all budgets; expect to spot rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes and wildebeest. (The big cats are a little more challenging to see here.) Nearby Phinda Private Game Reserve offers stunning high-end stays – plus the possibility of a beach day or scuba diving at Sodwana Bay .

Madikwe Game Reserve in North West Province is close to the Botswana border and a four-hour drive from Johannesburg , making it popular for South Africans looking for a safari. It’s also a malaria-free option for families with young children.

Combine any of these safari parks with a flight south to Cape Town , and you’ll add fine wine, world-class restaurants and a seaside safari – visiting the  African penguins of Boulders Beach – to your itinerary.

Best time to visit for a safari in South Africa

While South Africa is a year-round destination , most visitors love the cooler, dry season between May and August. During these months, wildlife is easier to spot as vegetation is more sparse and animals gather around water holes.

Where to stay on safari in South Africa

There are plenty of affordable self-catering rest camps in Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi run by SANParks , the government parks agency. Kruger’s southern zone is prime game-viewing territory, with Skukuza , Lower Sabie and Letaba rest camps all favorites. Hilltop Camp in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi has terrific views, while Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is a superb, privately run option that supports the local community.

Plush camps and lodges in the private reserves come with highly trained guides who can take you out on foot or by vehicle. You can’t go wrong at Saseka in Thornybush, Dulini in Sabi Sands, Tanda Tula in  Timbavati , Jaci’s Safari Lodge in Madikwe or any of the &Beyond accommodations in Phinda.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in South Africa

Rates range from $100 to $200 per person, per night in government-run camps. Mid-range prices start at $300 to $700 per person, per night, with a corresponding bump in accommodation and guiding quality.

Planning a safari in Tanzania

Why tanzania.

Limitless plains, the epic migration and relaxing dips in the Indian Ocean. Tanzania ’s northern safari circuit includes the amazing  Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater . Exploring these places for 10 days to two weeks is a sure way to fall in love with Africa. You should consider adding a few days on the island of Zanzibar  (officially called Unguja) to make your dream trip even more memorable.

Tanzania and Kenya share similarities, both having plentiful wildlife parks and excellent safari operators. Tanzania’s vibe, though, is generally less stressful – perhaps due to the fact that the Serengeti is nearly 10 times bigger than Kenya’s Masai Mara, offering endless horizons and greater habitat variety.

In the heart of the Serengeti, the Seronera River provides big-cat and herbivore sightings year round, making it popular with visitors. Kogatende and Lamai, on the Mara River, are ideal for observing river crossings – with fewer tourists. Private reserves such as  Grumeti allow viewings of the migration without the crowds (and for a price).

The Ngorongoro Crater is only a short drive to the east from the Serengeti. In this giant collapsed volcano (or caldera), animals like lions, elephants and black rhinos are enclosed as they prowl a complete ecosystem of pretty plains and dramatic forests. Note that such assets do draw the crowds in peak season.

Best time to visit for a safari in Tanzania

Plan a visit between January and March to witness the migration of wildebeest – and their newborns – passing through the Ngorongoro and Ndutu regions. (Get as early a start as possible to avoid day-trippers.) The best time to witness the famous wildebeest river crossings in the Serengeti is during the peak season, from July to August.

Where to stay on safari in Tanzania

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is an upmarket accommodation inspired by traditional Tanzanian architecture; its popular mobile-safari offering is Kiota Camp. Run entirely by women,  Dunia Camp is a luxury tented property situated in prime lion territory. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is a great value-for-money permanent lodge conveniently located near the entrance to the Ngorongoro Crater. For an even more budget-friendly option, consider  Bougainvillea Safari Lodge . For a different kind of stay, book a stay  Gibb’s Farm , which is situated on a working coffee farm and offers campfire storytelling and other fun extras.

On the coast, Chumbe Island in Zanzibar/Unguja is a highly rated, ecofriendly property that offers sensational snorkeling in a protected marine reserve. In the historic heart of  Stone Town , the best-value stay is Zanzibar Coffee House , dating from the 19th century.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Tanzania

Expect to pay anything from $250 to $950 per room, per night, during your stay in Tanzania. Entry fees at Serengeti National Park for foreign tourists are $70 (peak season) and $60 (low season). To visit the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll pay $250 for a vehicle, in addition to the same entry fee. These fees are typically included in organized safari packages.

Planning a safari in Zambia

Why zambia.

Track rhinos, witness an awe-inspiring cascade and join a walking safari to experience nature up close. Indeed,  Zambia is celebrated worldwide as the birthplace of the safari on foot, during which, under the guidance of two armed rangers, rhino tracking in nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park will bring you close to these magnificent animals – only a taste of what’s to come at South Luangwa.

Livingstone , the tourist capital of Zambia, lets you gaze at another (non-living) marvel: mighty Mosi-oa-Tunya, better known as  Victoria Falls . If the 935 cu meters (33,000 cu ft) of water that pours over the falls each second is not heart-pumping enough, there are plenty of other thrilling activities to enjoy , such as white-water rafting on the Zambezi River and bungee jumping (also available on the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls). During July and August, you can even take a refreshing dip in the natural infinity pool at the edge of the falls.

Several small and rustic camps in the Luangwa Valley cater just to walking safaris – a thrilling alternative to traditional game drives. These camps are mainly located in South Luangwa National Park .

Best time to visit for a safari in Zambia

Peak game viewing is from June to October, and Victoria Falls is at its best on the Zambia side from March to May.

Where to stay on safari in Zambia

Flatdogs Camp in South Luangwa National Park offers family-friendly luxury. In Livingstone, Jollyboys Backpackers provides a vibey base from which to explore town. The Victoria Falls Waterfront provides a free shuttle to the main event – but if you want to stay at the falls with unlimited access, the swish Royal Livingstone Resort is top-notch; the three-star Avani Victoria Falls Resort is next door.

Green Safaris operates a great circuit of camps in Zambia if you want to combine Victoria Falls with South Luangwa. Live the Robinson Crusoe life at Sindabezi Island Lodge on the Zambezi, and then head into the bush at Shawa Luangwa Camp . You can’t go wrong with walking-safari operators Time + Tide (its  Kakuli is a classic camp that’s been open since 1950), or Robin Pope .

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Zambia

Consider getting the KAZA UniVisa , a special $50 pass that allows for unlimited crossings between Zambia and Zimbabwe, plus a one-day trip to Botswana (via the Kazungula border crossing), within 30 days. Budget $250 to $700 per person, per night for lodging.

Planning a safari in Zimbabwe

Why zimbabwe.

The adventurous choice for a first-time safari, Zimbabwe has arguably the best guides in Africa. The easiest way to experience it all? Spend three days in Victoria Falls. Since it’s one of the country’s most popular tourist towns, you’ll find plenty to see, do and eat.

The meandering rainforest walkway in Zimbabwe is where the majority of Victoria Falls viewpoints lie. This is a better option for experiencing the falls during during the dry season (May to October), when water levels on the Zambian side lessen. On some evenings and during the full moon,  Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe remains open at night for dazzling stargazing.

After a day of adrenaline-fueled bungee jumping, white-water rafting, zip-lining or hovering in a helicopter above Batoka Gorge, afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel , served every day between 3pm and 6pm, offers some refined relaxation, as you share a tiered stand of pretty sandwiches and delicate pastries beside the manicured lawns. If this lies beyond your budget, enjoy a simple gin-and-tonic sundowner – or head to the Wild Horizons Lookout Café .

The wildlife around here is less prolific than nearby Chobe National Park in Botswana (which you can visit on a day trip or easily combine with Victoria Falls). Yet a boat cruise allows for spottings of hippos, crocodiles and the occasional elephant. A 45-minute flight or two-hour drive away,  Hwange National Park is where you’ll find bigger game.

Best time to visit for a safari in Zimbabwe

There is fantastic wildlife viewing during the dry months, from May to October. Victoria Falls is at its peak from March to May.

Where to stay on safari in Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge sits on a ridge and overlooks a water hole frequented by buffaloes and other beasts. Nkosi Guest Lodge is a pretty, upmarket inn, while Ilala Lodge Hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls Hotel, the iconic grande dame, offers perhaps the best views. Further afield, you can ensconce yourself in the bush at  Mpala Jena , about 40km (25 miles) upstream. In Hwange, The Hide , Camp Hwange  and Somalisa are all visitor favorites.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Zimbabwe

Entry to Victoria Falls is $50. With the wide range of accommodation options, you can spend $150 to $700 per person, per night.

This article was first published Oct 17, 2019 and updated Feb 20, 2024.

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What is the Best Time to Go on Safari?

Seasons, country and your preferences determine your best time to go on safari, are you flexible to go on your safari trip whenever you want, are you tied to a particular vacation time, safari through the seasons, green season.

Grean Season Pros:

• Heavily discounted rates and excellent value – stretch your budget for a longer safari!
• Less crowds
• Abundant food results in more births
• Animals are well fed and watered, healthy and active
• Beautiful green scenery and dramatic clouds make for stunning photography

Green Season Cons:

• Better Chance of Rain
• May be more difficult to find wildlife as they may be less concentrated, and the foliage may serve to hide their location
• Some camps close during certain green season months in areas that experience a great deal of rain
• Possibly adventurous driving conditions if mud is present, safari vehicles are modified to handle these conditions and guides are generally skilled off road drivers

Southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe & South Africa)

South africa.

This dichotomy of weather is actually a boon if you’re looking to skip Cape Town and are focused on a South Africa Safari. You might be able to get a great rate on a safari lodge at Kruger National Park. You’re really in luck if you’re looking for one of the most elusive members of the big five: leopards. Sabi Sands private game reserve is well known as being arguably the best place to spot leopards in South Africa.

The Okavango Delta is truly a year round safari destination in Southern Africa. The Delta is located in the northern part of Botswana. Rains from Angola to the northwest of Botswana make their way down to the Delta. Here, tourists are few and far between and lion, buffalo, leopard and elephant are commonly spotted here.

Namibia’s Etosha National Park is located in the northern part of the country. Namibia is known for its exceedingly arid climate which can lead to extremely hot days and cold. August and September are the ideal safari season for Etosha. While on safari in Etosha you can expect to see a variety of fauna – including elephants, lions and the occasional leopard. Etosha also boasts a healthy population of black rhino!

East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda)

Kenya and tanzania.

The greater availability of water allows wildlife to disperse. It also triggers many herbivores like wildebeest to give birth. The Great Migration – a wildebeest migration – occurs in East Africa in and around Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

One of the most amazing facets of the Great Migration is the zebra and wildebeest crossing the Mara River while doing their best to elude hungry crocodiles. Witnessing the crossing of the Mara is the highlight of a Kenya safari or a trip to the Serengeti.

Rwanda and Uganda

Rwanda and Uganda are both known for gorilla trekking and have two distinct wet seasons. While mountain gorillas are located in the rainforest, and it can rain any time, it can be an arduous hike to see them during the wet season due to muddy conditions and long downpours. April and May are generally the wettest time, followed by November and December.

Green Season and Birding

Green season discounts, peak season.

Wildlife Behavior During Peak Season

Peak season crowds, shoulder season, finding your best time to go on safari.

• Unsurprisingly, many safari goers want to see the big five
• Some travelers want to combine gorilla trekking or chimpanzee trekking with a trip to the Serengeti
• Occasionally safari travelers want to go on safari then go on a beach vacation in Mombasa or even scuba diving in Mozambique
• Night drives are a popular request when predators and prey are at their most active Others are seeking a once in a lifetime multi-generational family safari
• The desire to assist wildlife biologists with research on Cheetah in the Masai Mara
• More adventurous travelers are interested in walking safaris – where much of your safari is done on foot with an experienced guide
• Some of our clients are more interested in cultural activities – like visiting a Bushman tribe in Botswana
• Mokoro (canoe) and riverboat safaris are popular among many of our clients

About The Wild Source

We also are pioneers in disruptive empowerment which provides a path to camp ownership for local partners to be more than just employees . As a result, many of our safari guides are part owners as well and earn significantly more than guides in traditional safari camps.

Learn more about planning your safari by checking out the links below. Or sign up for our newsletter .

• The Best Countries for African Safaris
• What Does an African Safari Cost?
• Types of Africa Safari Camps
• Safari Activities
• Evaluating Africa Safari “Deals”

When to Visit Africa (Month by Month)

Here’s the great news. Different countries have different wet and dry seasons , so whenever you want to visit Africa there will be an ideal place to go . There’s no wrong time, it’s always the best time to visit Africa if you know where to travel .

January – It’s dry season in East Africa so it has to be Tanzania and Kenya for a safari during these months. Southern Africa is hot and wet; and it’s crowded because of the school holidays.

February – As above. Tanzania and Kenya are recommended.

March – A great month. Game viewing in East Africa is at its very best, but Southern Africa is a little cooler and it’s an ideal time to explore South Africa .

April – The rains have started in East Africa and many parks are closed or inaccessible. Southern Africa is getting drier and destinations in Namibia and Botswana are a good choice.

May – East Africa is wet with game viewing at its worst. The best time of year for safari in Southern Africa has just started.

June – Perhaps the ultimate month for an African safari. It’s dry season everywhere. Wildebeest are migrating , the Okavango is flooding and wildlife is easy to spot.

July – Like June, July offers exceptional game viewing across East and Southern Africa. However, it’s also peak season so you must contend with crowds, especially in famous national parks.

August – A great time to explore lesser-known destinations. This is a prime safari month in East and Southern Africa, so get off the beaten path and explore.

September – Africa awaits the rain and the peak season tourists have left. This is the underrated off-peak time for safari almost everywhere in Africa.

October – While there is some rain in East Africa, it’s not too off putting. Plus the prices are cheaper and there aren’t many tourists around. Storms are brewing but you can still safari in Southern Africa.

November – Rains in East and Southern Africa mean this is the least desirable month for a safari. South Africa is a good destination though as this country has the most varied climate.

December – Like November, this isn’t the best month for safari, with rains in East Africa and hot, humid weather in Southern Africa. Plus, it’s one of the most expensive times to travel.

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Month-by-month guide for travelling on Safari

Travelling on Safari in January

The hot summer of South Africa’s Eastern Cape means high temperatures and zero rainfall, which provides good opportunities to spot the Big Five in the region’s malaria-free private game reserves. We also recommend Kenya in January, if you want to see newborn animals. The fresh rains create a carpet of green on the savannah that supports the annual baby boom of plains game.

Travelling on Safari in February

Green season in Tanzania’s Nyerere National Park is the best time to track huge packs of wild dog hunting impala, a rare experience in most other months. Migratory northern carmine bee-eaters also make Nyerere National Park their home in February. This is the time to witness them dive bombing as your safari vehicle flushes out small insects and other prey.

Travelling on Safari in March

In Botswana, the longest migration among African mammals sees a few thousand Burchell’s zebra walk for nearly 480 km (300 miles) back and forth from Botswana to Namibia. They’re best seen in the Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana’s south. The rains across the rest of Sub-Saharan Africa make many of the roads impassable, leading to a tricky month for safari.  

Travelling on Safari in April

Temperatures are cooling down in South Africa’s Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park as the wet season ends, turning this usually arid region into an attractive and adventurous safari destination. Black-maned Kalahari lions enjoy a glut of newborn prey, and a termite population explosion draws raptors and other migratory birds to feast on this seasonal banquet.

Travelling on Safari in May

Kruger National Park is in its dry season. As the vegetation thins out, the bush starts to reveal the wildlife previously hidden by dense foliage. As the season changes, the chilly mornings are ideal for a walking safari in one of the private game reserves that encircle the Kruger. East Africa experiences heavy rains and many camps close. We do, though, love Botswana in May, when the bush is still thick with vegetation but the animals are healthy and prices are lower.

Travelling on Safari in June

Experiencing Victoria Falls at any time of year is impressive, but in June the water levels are slightly lower so the view of the falls is unobstructed by spray. You can add three days at the falls onto most safaris, but Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe particularly stands out at this time, when its dry season begins and it’s rich with wildlife.

Travelling on Safari in July

July is a special time for safari, as the dry season is in full swing across East and Southern Africa. In Botswana, a great phenomenon occurs as the rains in faraway Angola move downstream and flood the Okavango Delta. Scenic flights offer you views over this huge wetland, though lodge prices are also at a premium.

Travelling on Safari in August

The Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra are creating quintessential safari images as vast hordes cross the Mara River between Tanzania and Kenya on their perennial search for fresh forage. Most safari-goers want to see a crossing, so you’ll often share this special experience with many other visitors, which can be off-putting for some.

Travelling on Safari in September

As the dry season really sets in across East and Southern Africa, September is a popular choice for wildlife viewing. South Luangwa in Zambia is known for its walking safaris and prolific sightings of leopard, which are even easier to spot in the parched land at this time. Mornings are chilly, so we  recommend getting out in the bush early before the temperatures rise and wildlife seeks out shade.

Travelling on Safari in October

In northern Namibia, October is an overlap month as the onset of the rains creates some greenery to the desert. As the weather changes, the lodge prices do, too, and you can find some good-value options across southern Africa in the late part of October. Visitor numbers also drop, creating some truly remote wilderness experiences. 

Travelling on Safari in November

After months of the dry season, temperatures start to soar and the rains hit most of Southern Africa and parts of East Africa. Mahale Mountains National Park in western Tanzania experiences peak birdwatching season, as the forest comes alive with migratory birds and butterflies, and the park’s many waterfalls are in full flow. The clear air and lushness of the forest create a photographer’s dream.

Travelling on Safari in December

If you’re looking for a luxury safari at a fraction of the cost, December is a great time to plan for. The short rainy season and high temperatures will put off some people, but there’s good wildlife spotting in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, and the Masai Mara is green and full of elephant but laden down by very few vehicles. Some flexibility with dates is required due to the Christmas travel season.

Our recommendations for when to go on safari

• Not recommended

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When is the best time to go on safari?

Several of our safari experts view October as the best month for a safari in Africa . Their reasons include:

in Southern Africa , it’s the height of the dry season, with the first short rain season only commencing in mid-November. This means the vegetation is sparse - so wildlife is easier to see. Also, there is little or no standing water - meaning that animals are forced to gather near permanent water sources like rivers and waterholes, making them easier to find. Predators wait at the few remaining water sources, so this is your best chance to see lions, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas making a kill. Wild dog (painted wolf) puppies have recently left the safety of their dens and are more easily found nearby as they gain fitness and confidence to range with the pack. October is often hot and dusty, but the wildlife viewing can be exceptional - making the discomfort well worth it.

the enthralling Mara River crossings during Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara are ongoing, AND the crowds of the peak safari season have left, meaning that you have a better chance of fewer vehicles affecting your experience. Although these are the final weeks of this great annual river-crossing spectacle, the crossings season frequently extends beyond mid-October. This safari report-back was from a safari in the second half of October.

Victoria Falls - the smoke that thunders - still has enough water dropping 100m to the chasm below to create a scenic spray - but not the drenching thick mist of the high water season that obscures the view from the ground of this iconic natural wonder. Courageous visitors to Livingstone Island (Zambia) can swim out to Devil’s Pool (late August-December) to enjoy a thrilling view from the lip of the Falls. Vic Falls is the ideal short vacation or add-on to your October safari. There is never a bad time to visit Victoria Falls !

October is in the middle of the dry season in Congo-Brazzaville, making that lowland gorilla trekking safari top of the list for many at this time of year. The true safari connoisseur will also search the Odzala-Kokoua forests, plains and river systems for forest elephants, bongos, dwarf crocodiles, huge flocks of grey parrots and green pigeons, and other iconic wildlife encounters.

high October temperatures make this an ideal month for a bush-and-beach combo safari. Imagine soaking away the safari dust at a coastal or inland white-sand beach as you kick back and relax under an umbrella, your favourite beverage in hand.

October is a relatively low-risk month for malaria because of the lack of standing water, although precautions should still be taken.

Which of our ready-made safari trips are at their best during October?

The list below provides a few examples of our many ready-made safaris at their best in October every year. If none meets your wishes, start the discussion with one of our safari experts to find your October safari of a lifetime.

The above ready-made packages are just a taste of October-friendly safaris on offer

If none of the above meets your needs why not discuss your requirements with one of our safari experts?

Start the discussion

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South Africa safari: when to go, what you'll see, where to stay

By Jane Broughton

South Africa has a well-deserved reputation for its many design-forward, eco-conscious safari lodges offering every conceivable luxury and almost guaranteed game viewing throughout the year. As a safari destination, South Africa is easy to get to and navigate once on the ground, making it an ideal last-minute romantic getaway for couples or a sunny winter safari for families. And while it remains an excellent choice for first-timers wanting to experience a classic, big five safari, this destination is just as popular with seasoned philanthropists taking annual impact trips supporting innovative, privately funded conservation initiatives to regenerate animal habitat, protect biodiversity and save critically endangered species .

The most sought-after lodges and safari camps are in private conservation areas, within private game reserves scattered across the country, or in the Greater Kruger area, which includes the Kruger National Park. Small and often owner-run, these luxury, light-footprint properties are in hand-picked, scenic locations and offer deeply layered, immersive safari experiences on and off the vehicle led by experienced guides and trackers with an intimate knowledge of the ecosystem in which they’re working. Many privately protected areas share unfenced boundaries with neighbouring tracts of protected land so that animals can roam and establish their territory over a larger space in tune with seasonal changes. Along with exclusive, up-close sightings and a limit on the number of vehicles permitted, other private concession perks include the freedom to drive off-road where permitted, take guided walks and night drives , enjoy remote bush dinners and star bed sleep-outs, and get involved with hands-on conservation. Sustainably managed properties that are fully invested in protecting the environment while maximising the positive economic spinoffs of nature-based tourism to local communities should always be a consideration before booking anything.

When to go to South Africa for safari

Most of the go-to game reserves are in the northeast of South Africa and experience summer rain in thunderstorms followed by a dry winter with cool to chilly nights and warm, clear-skied sunny days ( May to October ). Winter is, therefore, the most popular time to go on safari, when the dry conditions lead to concentrations of animals around reliable water sources. This makes game viewing more predictable and animals easier to track and locate due to sparse vegetation and minimal ground cover. The mild, clear days are great for getting off the vehicle to track and explore the bush on foot. Summer rain radically transforms the bush, and everything explodes with life as the days heat up. Dense thickets and trees in leaf reduce visibility and make game viewing more challenging, but the lush, green vegetation attracts summer migrants and becomes a birder’s paradise. Predator activity increases, too, due to the abundance of baby animals at a time when food is plentiful for all. After the rain, the dust settles and light conditions are excellent for photography. Autumn and spring are good for witnessing the antelope rutting season. An early or late summer safari could be South Africa’s best-kept secret, especially with the add-on of a beach holiday outside of Cape Town ’s busiest time (from mid- December to end- January ). Elsewhere, the semi-arid Karoo and Kalahari are dry and clear-skied in winter and have low rainfall averages in summer but get very hot. In general, off-peak travel is underrated, with benefits including better availability, potential stay-longer, pay-less deals, and the possibility of securing a private vehicle.

Where to go in South Africa for safari

The private conservation areas in and around the Greater Kruger area are synonymous with South Africa’s reputation for delivering epic, up-close predator action interpreted by knowledgeable guides. Kruger shares unfenced boundaries with several private reserves, including the Sabi Sand, where iconic, family-owned properties like Mala Mala , Londolozi , and Singita first put the region on the map thanks to reliable big cat sightings, especially leopards. Further private properties within the Timbavati, Thornybush and Klaserie reserves add thousands of hectares to the Greater Kruger, encouraging natural species migration and collectively securing habitat for many rare and endangered animals. In the northern reaches of the Kruger National Park, Pafuri’s immense flood plains and dense forests are renowned for walking safaris. At the same time, Singita’s privately leased Lebombo concession on the park’s Mozambican border provides strategic protection for rhinos. Further afield, large, private malaria-free reserves like Madikwe, close to the Botswana border, Marataba in the Waterberg, Samara in the Great Karoo, Tswalu in the southern Kalahari, and Kwandwe in the Eastern Cape, provide shelter for an astounding diversity of big game and rare and elusive species, boast breathtaking scenery and offer a choice of intimately scaled lodges for immersive, romantic getaways, secluded, off-grid trails camps for adventurers, and fully staffed, exclusive-use bush villas for multigenerational families .

By Teddy Wolstenholme

By Trish Lorenz

By Marti Buckley

The best lodges to book

Tengile river lodge, sabi sand.

This beautifully modern AndBeyond-run lodge in the Sabi Sand has nine energy-efficient, villa-sized suites – 200 square metres in extent – cleverly concealed in a riverine forest on a bend of the Sand River where elephants often come to feed. Hand-painted botanical print fabrics, recycled stone terrazzo floors, and bespoke throws and rugs add character to the smart, modern interiors, everything angled for soaking in the tranquil views. A glass-walled forest-green marble bathroom leads to an outdoor shower on a private, shaded deck and a big  pool . The lodge’s spa and gym also have a lap pool for training swims - necessary, as the food is delicious.

Best for: Nature-loving aesthetes will appreciate the sleek, glamorous style of this lodge, which champions local, eco-friendly design, and having exclusive access to over 10,000 hectares in the quieter south-east of the Sabi Sand reserve.

Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sand

Electric, solar-powered game-drive vehicles offer a zero-emissions ride and properly quiet encounters with wildlife at this 100 per cent off-grid luxury property in the Sabi Sand. In synch with its sustainable approach to game-viewing, Cheetah Plains uses the latest in grey-water recycling. It powers everything from the air-cons to the temperature-controlled wine cellars in its three exclusive-use lodges on renewable solar energy. Named after legendary big cats in the area, the three exclusive-use lodges have four private guest suites - think glass walls gliding away into raw concrete to bring nature closer, even from the bath. Burnished metal, unpolished stone and solid timber interiors are the counterpart to colourful contemporary South African artworks.

Best for: Silent game drives in fast and efficient electric vehicles, charged off renewable energy, designed by Cheetah Plains’ owner, a former rally driver, to be extra-comfortable with luxury SUV suspension, ergonomically shaped padded bucket seats with built-in seat warmers for chilly winter mornings.

Great Fish River Lodge, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Nine gloriously remote, romantic suites with viewing decks and private pools sit above the Great Fish River, which meanders for 30 kilometres through this rugged, 22,000-hectare, privately owned reserve in the malaria-free Eastern Cape province, within driving distance of the Garden Route’s long, sandy beaches and indigenous forests. The breeding ground of the blue crane, Kwandwe has just 30 rooms split across two intimate lodges (Great Fish River being one of them), three exclusive-use villas (ideal for family safaris), and an off-grid tented camp. Exclusivity at up-close sightings of the big five, black rhino, cheetah and smaller, but no less significant, vulnerable and endangered species is amplified by the rugged wilderness setting: extensive open plains interrupted by carbon-storing subtropical thicket-clad hills, securing vital habitat for wildlife that last roamed freely here over 120 years ago.

Best for: A big five safari with a luxury of space and privacy for a romantic getaway, after exploring the Garden Route or Cape Town. Malaria free makes it ideal for families and the elderly, too - multiple generations sharing a fully staffed villa with a private vehicle and guide.

The Farmstead, at Royal Malewane, Thornybush Private Game Reserve

On expertly guided drives from this sister property to Royal Malewane’s original lodge, sightings include leopard, cheetah, wild dog, and sizeable elephant and buffalo herds. A Master Tracker leads walks. Increased movement of animals has resulted in a richer game-viewing experience in this increasingly popular privately owned reserve - all because fences were dropped on the eastern boundary with the Timbavati in 2017, opening it up to the Greater Kruger area. Liz Biden’s inimitable riotous style doesn’t hold back in this celebratory lodge with three luxury suites plus a separate villa with space for six additional adults. Like Liz’s newest addition to Royal Malewane, Waterside Lodge, this one features fun Ardmore fabrics, animal print and plush velvets in jewel colours and lots of South African art. In summer, deep verandas encourage lazing outdoors on swinging daybeds or one of the loungers submerged in the pool’s shallow end. The local Moletele community own the land here and benefits financially from the lodge’s success.

Best for: House parties, especially if the Biden family’s original bush villa, Africa House, is too big – newly renovated, its six suites share two pools, a spa treatment suite and gym.

Best Time To Visit Africa

A handy weather guide to Africa

The  best time to visit Africa  depends on the countries you want to visit, the time of the year, and if you are keen on going on one of the  big five Africa safaris . Here is an overview of  Africa destinations  to help you plan the perfect  African tours .

The Great Migration

Botswana offers the best game viewing experiences during the dry months of June to October. In October, while temperatures can rise up to 40 ° C during the day, they can drop below 10 ° C at night. The months of April and May are also suitable for a  Botswana  safari, although you have experience the occasional bout of rain as well.

• Best time to visit:  June to October
• Watch out:  Nights can be cold and chilly during the peak season, especially in the drier areas

The best time to travel to Kenya is between mid-December to mid-March and from June to October. The country experiences heavy rainfall between April and June, and shorter spells of rain in November and December. However, with various parts of  Kenya  being accessible at different months, you can actually travel in Kenya throughout the year.

• Best time to visit:  July to October
• Watch out:  Expect chilly weather conditions in higher altitudes

Seasons in  Lesotho  are diametrically opposite to ours. While in winter, temperatures can dip to -15°C, summer days are uniformly pleasant at 30 ° C. Lesotho also experiences the occasional thunderstorm during the summer months. Spring and autumn are the best time to travel to Lesotho, with April and May being the ideal months.

• Best time to visit:  May to October
• Watch out:  Great game-watching opportunities, but nights can be as cold as -12°C

In  Malawi , the weather is distinctly different between summer, winter and the rainy season. While May to July are the cooler months, Malawi experiences warm weather between August and September. Road conditions are poor during the rainy months from the end of September until April, making it difficult to travel in Malawi. With the weather being generally quite warm throughout the year, we recommend travel to Malawi between the months of May to August or September.

• Best time to visit:  June to August
• Watch out:  Days are warm and cloudless but nights can be cold

Mauritius experiences warm and sunny weather with few variations between seasons. Beach holidays in  Mauritius  are possible at any time of the year, although there are possibilities of heavy storms in January and February. As the country is located in the southern hemisphere, expect dry weather with low humidity between the months of May to November.

• Best time to visit:  September to January
• Watch out:  The summer months typically get heavy rainfall with occasional thunderstorms

Moroccan weather can be unpredictable from October through February and can vary from one year to the next; some winters are moderate and others are wet and cold. Generally, the months April, May, October and early November are the best time to visit  Morocco  for a more comfortable, temperate climate.

• Best time to visit:  September and October
• Watch out:  October is a busy month for tourism so please confirm your travel plans much in advance

In  Mozambique  too, the dry and wet seasons are distinctly different from one another. The dry weather lasts from April to September and is generally the best time to travel to Mozambique. As you travel inland, or to the south, the weather can be quite hot and humid during the rainy season.

• Watch out:  Due to strong winds in August, visibility can be poor in some areas

The sun shines down on  Namibia  throughout the year! Set in the southern hemisphere, Namibia can be quite cold in the dry winter months, with temperatures often dipping below the freezing point. The time between June to October is best for Namibia safaris.

• Best time to visit:  April to June
• Watch out:  By the end of June, temperatures as well as the amount of greenery begin to decrease steadily

Rwanda and Uganda

It is best to travel to  Rwanda  and  Uganda  during the long dry season between May to October or in the short dry season between December to March. Traveling in the rainy season is also possible as rainfall generally occurs in short, violent bursts. If you are interested in gorilla trekking, do keep in mind that  Volcanoes National Park  experiences plenty of rainfall throughout the year.

• Watch out:  This being the dry season, food is harder to find in Nyungwe, so chimp families often retreat further into the forest.

The climate of Seychelles is determined by the winds that blow through the country! The North-West trade winds bring warm and humid weather between the months of October to March, while in January and February, the country receives a lot of rainfall.  Seychelles  experiences cool and dry weather between May to October, making these the best months for travel.

• Watch out:  These are the busiest months for tourism in Seychelles

South Africa

The climate varies significantly between regions, so the best time to travel in South Africa depends on what you wish to do. As the country is in the southern hemisphere, seasons in South Africa are opposite to ours. While Springtime, between August and October, is the ideal time for safaris, you can actually travel to South Africa all around the year. During the school holidays, between mid-December to mid-January, as well as in Easter, a large amount of local tourists flock to popular destinations. Thus, it is best to avoid traveling in popular  South African destinations  at this time.

• Best time to visit:  May to October in the north and eastern parts; October to November and February to March in the Southern Cape region
• Watch out:  Between May to August in the north and eastern parts, expect cool and dry weather with temperatures dipping below -12°C at night.

Tanzania  is great for year round travel, so before you plan your trip, consider which activities and experiences are important to you. April and May are the least suitable months for travel to Tanzania as it rains heavily during this time.

• Watch out:  It can get quite cold in the higher altitudes

The  best time to travel to Zambia  is during the cool and dry months of May to August. The temperature is pleasantly mild at this time and it is also a great time for game viewing. In the hot and dry season, temperatures can rise up to 40 ° C, although this is also a great time for a safari in Zambia. While it is difficult to reach remote areas during the rainy season, this is also the best time for bird watching.

• Watch out:  While the days are warm and cloudless, nights can be chilly!

The best time to visit Zimbabwe is between the cool, dry months of May and August. While the temperature is generally around 20 ° C during the daytime, nights are usually cooler. In the higher regions of  Zimbabwe , temperatures can drop below freezing point. These months are also considered the best for  safaris in Zimbabwe .

• Watch out:  Pack warm winter clothes for morning game drives since temperatures can dip as low as 6°C

Best time to see the Victoria Falls

With the summer rains just ended, the Victoria Falls are at their impressive best during the months of March and April. Expect to be thoroughly drenched by the spray from this show-stopper if you are visiting during this time. It’s also the ideal time for a scenic helicopter ride in the Victoria Falls, flying over the gushing cascade of water. The months of July and August are also considered the best time to visit Victoria Falls. Water levels are still impressive during this time and you can also visit the Devil’s Pool at the edge of the cliff and Livingstone Island located mid-river.

The Best Time to travel to Africa

Do you have more questions about the best time to visit Africa?  Africa tours  need to be planned well, especially if you wish to include several countries and experiences, such as safaris and beach holidays, into your itinerary. Let us experts plan the  best African safari tours  and advise you on the best time to visit Africa. Tell us your Africa travel dream and we will design your private and tailor-made Africa tour to match all your interests and preferences.

The Best Time to go to Africa For A Wildlife Safari

Wondering what’s the  best time to visit Africa for a wildlife safari ? It can be overwhelming to decide when to go on a safari vacation in Africa, especially if you plan to visit multiple destinations. Our well-traveled experts can help you with their insights and recommendations, based on your interests. Whether you want to witness the  Great Migration in Africa , trek through the Kalahari Desert or glide along on a canoe in the Okavango Delta, our experts can curate the  best African safari tours  tailored exclusively for you.

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Tanzania: Safaris, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar

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Delve into Morocco’s fascinating history and culture on this lovely self-drive tour. Explore the fabled port city of Casablanca, and marvel at the architectural wonders of three of Morocco’s Imperial Cities – Rabat, Fes and Marrakesh. Walk through quaint neighborhoods, soak in the ambience of bustling markets, and sample the irresistible local street food. Experience…

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Best time for Safaris

Whether it is classic safaris in world-renowned national parks, luxury safaris in remote destinations, drive-through tours in Kruger, or world class game viewing in Zimbabwe with the best guides, African safari tours can be life-changing. Plan the ideal wildlife safari in Africa by combining a visit to several countries and include unique experiences in your itinerary. Discover the best time for safaris in Africa by region.

Things To Do

From rolling savannas to thundering waterfalls and hundreds and thousands of animals roaming freely through vast, timeless landscapes, Africa tours offer fascinating bucket-list experiences. Discover the top ten highlights of Africa, as recommended by our destination experts. From the Great Migration in the Serengeti to a luxury safari on the Okavango Delta, discover bucket-list Africa!

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12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Spot the big five on your safari adventure.

Safari tours in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of tours to best suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country at the bottom of this page for more information.

&Beyond

Courtesy of &Beyond

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's offerings. During the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle safari – which starts at $11,340 per person – travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Mara savanna. But the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park . After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms.

[See more of Serengeti National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Wilderness Safaris

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

For some of Africa's most jaw-dropping scenery, opt for the seven-night Namibian Adventure Safari tour offered by Wilderness Safaris. This weeklong trip features visits to the Namib Desert's dune-filled Sossusvlei region (which you may recognize from the film "Mad Max: Fury Road") and the mountainous Palmwag Concession – a protected area with springboks, giraffes, black rhinos and more. The package's per person fee starts at $6,725, which covers most meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from Namibia's capital Windhoek and between the safari destinations. It also covers your stay at properties like the fully solar-powered Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp and the five-star Little Kulala lodge amid the stunning desert.

Wild Rwanda Safaris

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris)

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for silverback gorillas) and an adjacent Batwa Pygmy community. Wild Rwanda Safaris allows guests to choose between midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodation, which can help keep costs down if necessary. The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, and English-speaking guide services are also covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend longer on the road to the park.

Nomad Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species. What's more, lodging at the company's campsites, select meals, and flights to and from Dar es Salaam are factored into the package's prices. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,700 per person; prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This outing by Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks for wildlife-viewing excursions. During your trip, you'll see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground. The package costs at least $22,450 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes a hot air balloon ride, a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe, and lodging at upscale properties like Serengeti's Four Seasons outpost. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Madagascar , but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet. This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives in Tarangire National Park and accommodations like canvas tents and farmhouse lodges. Elephants, zebras and lions are just some of the animals you may spot during your journey. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Lion World Travel

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

As the trip name implies, Lion World Travel's 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package combines sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa , with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta (home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more) and Chobe National Park, which is believed to have Africa's largest elephant population. Prices start at $4,299 per person and cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays at luxury hotels, camps and lodges. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (Cape Town to Botswana as well as Botswana to Johannesburg ).

[See more of Cape Town: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bearded Heron Safaris

Neil Heron | Courtesy of Bearded Heron Safaris

Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil Heron, a nature guide and wildlife photographer and writer, Bearded Heron Safaris' longest option features small game drives that may include lion, rhino, zebra and leopard sightings throughout all corners of Kruger. Rates are inclusive of in-park cottage accommodations and all breakfasts, dinners, snacks and drinks. Flights and park fees are not included. For a 15-day safari, expect to pay 76,900 South African rand (about $4,500) per person.

[See more of Kruger National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Discover Africa

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For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day Epic Botswana Adventure is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for elephant spotting – before moving onto the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals from leopards to rhinos. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife like zebras and buffalo on the savanna as well as salt pans from a former lake. You'll stay in upscale lodges and campsites within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person), but international flights are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari. You'll start off visiting some of South Africa's historic sites from the Boer wars, before moving on to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the big five without too many crowds. The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. As far as safaris go, this one is an affordable option, starting at about $2,795 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris

This tour company kicks off its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from two days to nine, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, there's the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park safari, which will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park (across the border in Botswana) and to Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more. This safari also includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The price starts at $900 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and lodging in Victoria Falls; travelers will need to pay for entrance fees to the parks and dinner.

Compass Odyssey

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Explore the savanna and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. You'll also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive as well. Starting at $3,750 per person, the tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights; the company does allow the tour to be customized on request.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Inoculation requirements can include vaccination against COVID-19 and yellow fever, and you'll need to get these vaccines before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

Note that, outside of what's required, there are a number of other vaccinations that are recommended, so ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor to see if you need to bring anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of your destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of November 2022:

Botswana: If you have recently visited a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa, Central and South America. Consult the World Health Organization's website for a list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days without a visa.

Kenya: Travelers to Kenya must have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with the last shot administered more than 14 days before arrival in the country. Unvaccinated visitors can enter with a negative PCR test, conducted no more than 72 hours before departure. Proof of COVID-19 tests or vaccines must be uploaded to an online system called Panabios. Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places with yellow fever or cholera outbreaks to be vaccinated against these illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an e-visa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no more than eight weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Travelers must be able to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code to enter Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure, and the test results should be accessible by QR code. Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country.

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 – and be sure to print a copy of the approval to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a $100 fee; it's recommended you bring cash to cover this. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: To enter Uganda, you must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must show proof of vaccination but do not need a test to enter Zambia; unvaccinated travelers must undergo a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure. Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk.

Visas are required to visit Zambia, but these can be obtained online before your departure or at a port of entry. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: To enter Zimbabwe, travelers must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or must take a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours before your departure. As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks also require a vaccine against this illness.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Wallets (That Also Hold Vaccine Cards)
• The Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Options
• The Best International Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Zoos in the U.S.
• The World's Best Places to Visit

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Best Safari Destinations in Africa for 2024

The Big Five have never been more appealing. Here are our big five safari destinations Africa for 2024 and beyond

“There is something about safari life that makes you forget all your sorrows and feel as if you had drunk half a bottle of champagne—bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive.” Karen Blixen, of Out of Africa fame, waxed rhapsodic about the wonders of the mighty continent and the appeal of a safari. Most of us have only seen wild elephants and lions in documentaries, but there’s nothing more thrilling than seeing these mighty beasts in their natural habitat. An elephant calf playfully following the herd, an ochre-hued lion gazing intently at wildebeests, a giraffe slowly chewing the branches from an acacia tree. Witnessing these animals on a safari in Africa truly transforms you and your views on conservation and sustainability.

Africa boasts dozens of countries, each with their own cultures, languages and norms, but across this dynamic continent, from north to south, lie wilderness parks, savannahs and velds where the Big Five—lions, elephants, cape buffalos, rhinos and leopards—and other animals live peacefully under the watchful eye of park rangers and conservationists. Check out our top five best safari destinations in Africa for 2024. 

Botswana boasts so many natural wonders, it’s hard to pick a place to start when heading here for a safari adventure. The Okavango River Delta, the largest inland delta in the world, offers miles upon miles of myriad waterways, lagoons and grassy flood plains where one can admire mighty beasts from a safe vantage point in an overland truck. Get as close as you can get to African elephants as well as lions and leopards on a Botswana safari .

The Moremi Game Reserve, situated in the heart of the delta, is the perfect campsite for any driving safari as you’ll be rewarded with hippos, Cape buffalos, lions, leopards and the ever elusive Tawny Eagle. If you love elephants as much as we do, Chobe National Park on the border of Botswana and Zambia, boasts a herd population of around 50,000 elephants across the savannah. A Botswana safari is the perfect choice if you want to splurge on a private African safari tour as you get personal chefs and other amenities.

Kenya offers tantalizing glimpses of wildlife from any budget or luxury African safari tour. With more than 800 safari tours to choose from, travelers will find it hard to pick just one. Head to the Masai Mara for gaming drives that ensure you see at least one or two of the Big Five. Tsavo West National Park goes beyond the Big Five and offers rhinos, hippos, cheetahs and plant and bird species that you can’t find anywhere else. This rugged wilderness boasts verdant plains thanks to watering holes such as Mzima Springs. 

Mt. Kilimanjaro is the resident icon here and with its snow-capped peaks as a backdrop, you’ll find elephants migrating from one watering hole to another at Amboseli National Park. Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake, is a great vantage point to admire birds as well as hippos among papyrus reeds and flat-topped acacias. After six days of trekking and hiking, relax in your air-conditioned hotel in Nairobi when you’re done.

South Africa

When one thinks of the Big Five, South Africa immediately comes to mind as it’s considered the place to see all of these animals in their natural habitat. A safari in South Africa means you’ll be guaranteed lions, leopards, rhinos, and other wildlife across a five- to eight-day African safari. 

From the verdant banks of Lake Saint Lucia in iSimangaliso Wetland Park to the grassy plains of Kruger National Park, South Africa teems with wildlife that is indigenous to the continent. Blyde River Canyon, the third largest of its kind in the world, boasts gorges and greenery like you’ve never seen anywhere else on earth. Expect views of the rivers and valleys laid out like a banquet feast for the senses. Meandering ribbons of blue traverse the landscape and waterfalls are carved into cliff sides, offering a pleasing respite from long days in an overland truck tour. 

For African safari tours, Tanzania is always at the top when one thinks of best safari destinations in Africa. With sites such as Ngorongoro Crater, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tarangire National Park, and Serengeti National Park it isn’t not hard to see why. A Tanzania safari is a one-of-a-kind experience thanks to the Great Migration. This annual event sees more than 2 million animals, mainly wildebeests, zebras and giraffes, traverse the golden plains of Serengeti National Park, from Tanzania to nearby Kenya. A safari in Tanzania is always appealing thanks to conservation efforts that preserve the Big Five and other wildlife as well as fertile soil and abundant watering holes.  

On any given Tanzania safari, expect iconic wildlife while on a game drive and close-but-not-too close interactions with animals (perfect for anyone looking for an African safari photography tour); it’s one of our favorites because of this personal interaction. Descend into Ngorongoro crater where you might be lucky enough to spot an endangered black rhino or visit a Maasai village to learn about their way of life. 

While most people head on an African safari to see the Big Five, there are other animals just as majestic and endangered as the mighty lion. Uganda boasts gorilla safaris so you can do your best Jane Goddall impression watching primates in their native habitat.

Before you get to the primates, travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to admire rare white rhinos, which have been saved from the brink of extinction by park rangers here. Track chimpanzees, our closest animal relatives, in Kibale Forest National Park. Then it’s time to hike 4-6 hours to see mountain gorillas.

In Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park you’ll get to spend one hour admiring these majestic beats in the dense foliage. Grab your camera and quietly take photos of these sociable creatures who are often in family groups of more than a dozen, led by an alpha male. These mighty animals can look placid but can be quite intimidating when viewed up close so don’t use your video camera or flash. You’ll leave your Uganda gorilla safari with a new appreciation for primates of all sizes. 

See Also: Best Safari Destinations In the World

Shandana A. Durrani

Shandana A. Durrani is the Head of Content & Brand at TourRadar. A former Senior Editor at Cigar Aficionado and a former Dining Editor at Google, Durrani has written about travel for Condé Nast Traveler, Afar, Silverkris and Metro London and is the author of “Day Trips from New York City.”

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Passing Thru Travel

A Guide to the 10 Best Safari Experiences in Africa

Posted: February 20, 2024 | Last updated: February 20, 2024

Embarking on an African safari is an experience like no other. The continent’s vast and diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and unique cultural heritage make it a dream destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. From the savannas of the Serengeti to the deltas of Botswana, each safari destination offers a unique glimpse into the wild heart of Africa. This guide will take you through ten of the best safari experiences in Africa, providing insider tips to help you make the most of your adventure.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

In the Serengeti National Park, you’ll witness the quintessence of the African savanna. The vast open plains are home to the Great Migration, an awe-inspiring natural spectacle where millions of wildebeest and zebras journey in search of greener pastures. The park’s diverse habitats, including riverine forests and swamps, are teeming with wildlife, from lions and leopards to giraffes and elephants. For a unique experience, plan an early morning hot air balloon ride, providing a stunning aerial view of the plains at sunrise.

Insider’s Tip: Book a hot air balloon safari for an unforgettable aerial view of the migration.

When To Travel: June to October for the migration; January and February for the calving season.

How To Get There: Fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport, then a local flight to the Serengeti.

Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

In the Maasai Mara, you’ll experience one of Africa’s most abundant wildlife reserves. It is best known for the migration period when massive herds cross the Mara River. However, it’s also home to the Big Five and an excellent location for spotting predators in action. The Mara’s landscape of rolling grasslands and acacia woodlands adds to its charm. Consider visiting a local Maasai village for a cultural insight into the lives of the indigenous community.

Insider’s Tip: Visit a Maasai village for a cultural experience.

When To Travel: July to October for the migration.

How To Get There: Fly to Nairobi, followed by a local flight or drive to the reserve.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park offers a more accessible safari experience without skimping on wildlife diversity. It’s one of the best places to self-drive, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The park is home to a vast array of animals, including the Big Five, and has a well-developed infrastructure, making it ideal for first-time safari-goers. Stay in one of the park’s private lodges for a more secluded experience and expert-led game drives.

Insider’s Tip: Stay in one of the park’s private lodges for exclusive game drives.

When To Travel: May to September for dry season game viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Johannesburg, drive to Kruger, or take a local flight to nearby airports.

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Chobe National Park is renowned for its large elephant population and river safaris on the Chobe River. These unique water-based safaris offer a different perspective and the opportunity to see a variety of aquatic wildlife and birds. The park’s proximity to Victoria Falls makes it easy to combine your safari with one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. The dry season brings large concentrations of wildlife to the riverbanks, making for exceptional game viewing.

Insider’s Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to Victoria Falls.

When To Travel: May to October for the dry season.

How To Get There: Fly to Kasane Airport or drive from Victoria Falls or Livingstone.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango Delta is a unique wetland within a desert, offering an unparalleled safari experience. The annual flooding of the delta creates a lush habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. Exploring the delta by mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe, is a serene and intimate way to experience this unique ecosystem. Staying in a bush camp on one of the delta’s islands provides an immersive wilderness experience.

Insider’s Tip: Book a bush camp on one of the delta’s islands.

When To Travel: July to October for the flood season.

How To Get There: Fly to Maun Airport, then take a charter flight to the delta.

Etosha National Park, Namibia

Etosha National Park is centered around the vast Etosha Salt Pan, providing a unique backdrop for wildlife viewing. The park’s numerous waterholes attract a variety of animals, particularly during the dry season, making it an excellent location for photographers. Night-time game viewing at the waterholes offers a chance to see nocturnal species and unique animal behaviors not typically observed during the day.

Insider’s Tip: Stay inside the park for night-time waterhole viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Windhoek, then drive or take a local flight to Etosha.

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

The Ngorongoro Crater offers a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience. As you descend into the world’s largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera, you’ll find an abundance of wildlife in this natural amphitheater. The crater floor is home to over 25,000 animals, including the endangered black rhino. Early morning visits allow for fewer crowds and more active wildlife.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the crater early in the morning to avoid crowds.

When To Travel: June to September for cooler weather and optimal wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Kilimanjaro Airport, then drive or take a local flight.

South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

South Luangwa National Park is a haven for those seeking a more adventurous safari. Known as the birthplace of the walking safari, it offers an intimate and immersive experience. The park is renowned for its high-quality guides and exceptional leopard sightings. Night drives here are especially rewarding, with chances to see nocturnal animals like genets, civets, and bush babies.

Insider’s Tip: Try a night drive for a chance to see nocturnal animals.

When To Travel: July to October for the dry season.

How To Get There: Fly to Lusaka, then take a local flight to Mfuwe Airport.

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Hwange National Park, the largest in Zimbabwe, is known for its vast elephant herds and diverse landscapes ranging from desert sands to forests. It’s also one of the best places to see African wild dogs. The park’s numerous waterholes are magnets for wildlife, especially during the dry season, offering superb game viewing opportunities.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the park’s waterholes for excellent game viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Victoria Falls, then drive to Hwange.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a diverse safari experience, with landscapes including savannas, wetlands, and forests. It’s an excellent location for seeing tree-climbing lions and various primates, including chimpanzees. A boat trip on the Kazinga Channel is a must, providing close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds.

Insider’s Tip: Take a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel to see hippos and crocodiles.

When To Travel: January to February and June to July for dry weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Entebbe, then drive to the park or take a local flight.

The Bottom Line

Your African safari adventure awaits, with each destination offering a unique window into the continent’s incredible wildlife and landscapes. Whether you’re floating down the Okavango Delta, witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti, or walking among the wildlife in South Luangwa, these experiences will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Choose your destination based on the wildlife you want to see and the type of safari experience you’re after. Get ready for an adventure that will bring you face-to-face with the wonders of the African wild.

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The post A Guide to the 10 Best Safari Experiences in Africa republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Thomas Retterath.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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The best safari lodges in East Africa for every type of traveller

By Scott Campbell

Whether it’s witnessing herds of wildebeest flooding through the savannah in the awe-inspiring Great Migration, getting up close with majestic mountain gorillas or relaxing in old-world luxury surrounded by giraffes, the Middle East is remarkably close to the wild wonders of East Africa.

In six hours or less, flights take off from the UAE to renowned safari hotspots like Kenya and Tanzania, plus emerging destinations including Uganda and Rwanda. Once there, the best way to experience the adventure (and spot the all-important Big Five: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) is by booking into a safari lodge.

There’s something for everyone, from big-group private tented camps to family-friendly luxury lodges with private pools and budget bunks tucked into forests — here are our picks of the best lodges for travellers from the Middle East.

Best for ultra-luxury

Rustic but luxurious suites at Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Rwanda

Flight time from UAE: 6 hours direct

Singita’s high-end, all-inclusive camps across sub-Saharan Africa hold legendary status and the crown jewel is the eternally popular Kwitonda Lodge, three hours drive from the Rwandan capital Kigali. On the edge of Volcanoes National Park, which is home to over a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas , this resort features eight rustic suites brimming with locally handcrafted details. Each suite boasts private heated plunge pools, wellness treatment areas, fireplaces, and timber-framed windows that showcase the breathtaking scenery. Room rates include all meals and beverages (including premium wines and spirits) plus complimentary laundry.

Address: Singita Kwitonda Lodge, Ruhengeri, Rwanda

Best for up-close encounters

The famously friendly, long-necked guests at Giraffe Manor

Giraffe Manor, Kenya

Flight time from UAE: 5 hours direct

Wake up to resident Rothschild giraffes poking their heads through the windows at Giraffe Manor, an ivy-clad historic gem in Nairobi's leafy suburbs. Built in 1932 and inspired by a Scottish hunting lodge, the stately manor offers high-ceilinged, four-poster rooms named after the giraffes that roam the grounds and travellers who visited East Africa in the 1930s. Enjoy stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro from your room or indulge in relaxing treatments at the open-plan Retreat spa, complete with steam rooms and saunas. It's a wildlife lover's dream with a touch of old-world luxury.

Address: Giraffe Manor, Gogo Falls Road, Nairobi, Kenya

Best for affordable luxury

A wild beauty

Elephant Plains Lodge, Uganda

Flight time from UAE: 5 hours 30 minutes

Among 80 acres of wild beauty, Elephant Plains Lodge offers spacious private cottages with free-standing bathtubs that overlook the savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park in the country’s west. Starting at $400 a night for a double room, the resort still has all the top-class amenities and freshly prepared international cuisine usually found in pricier properties. Wake up to spectacular sunrises in deep reds, oranges and blues, best savoured with a hot Ugandan rolex cooked by the in-house chef — then as the day winds down, grab a cocktail from the well-stocked bar and enjoy sunset by the pool.

Address: Elephant Plains Lodge, Bunyaruguru, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Best for gorillas

In the foothills of Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park sits One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Rwanda

Float among swaying eucalyptus trees in the secluded treehouses of One&Only Gorilla’s Nest in the foothills of Rwanda 's Volcanoes National Park. Each comes with a private pool and viewing deck plus a pair of binoculars for spotting the country's rare mountain gorillas without compromising on luxury. Start your adventure with a fireside briefing session led by resident "gorilla whisperer" Francois Bigirimana, who has more than four decades of experience. He'll guide you through treks to meet one of the park's 12 primate families, including the Agaysha, which is home to two silverbacks — although only one reigns supreme.

Address: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, Nyonirima, Kinigi, Ruhengeri, Rwanda

Best for elephants

Pull up a chair to admire the view at Buffalo Safari Lodge

Buffalo Safari Lodge, Uganda

Flight time from UAE: 5 hours 30 minutes direct

Get up close and personal with the elephants at Buffalo Safari Lodge, perched behind small fishing villages on the banks of the scenic Kazinga Channel, which is home to wallowing hippos, vast musters of long-legged storks and pods of pelicans. Sunbathe by the elevated pool while elephants, Ugandan kob antelopes and buffalo wander by. The undoubted star of the show is Bufulu, the de facto resident elephant, who wanders in and greets guests at breakfast then hangs out for a few hours each morning near the double-storey terracotta honeymoon suites. As night falls, you’ll need a flame-wielding security guard to escort you safely past any lions that are known to stalk the dense bushes around the resort.

Address: Buffalo Safari Lodge, Katunguru, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Best for budget

A dream safari need not leave you out of pocket

Budongo Eco Lodge, Uganda

A steal at as little as $60 a night for a private cabin tucked among the trees or $20 for a bed in the shared dormitories, this recently renovated lodge near the entrance to Murchison Falls National Park is a popular launching-off point for chimp treks — expect to see dozens of the dextrous creatures, including cute bug-eyed babies, right by the roadside on your way in. Accommodation at this former base of world-renowned, primate expert Jane Goodall is basic but comfortable, with netted open windows letting you fall asleep to the soothing sounds of chirping insects and cooing birds. Just don’t forget to lower those mosquito nets.

Address: Budongo Eco Lodge, Budongo Forest National Reserve, Murchison Falls National Park, Kinyanga, Uganda

Best for big groups

Watching the sunset at Mahali Mzuri

Mahali Mzuri, Kenya

Billionaire entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson has opened his small-scale Kenyan safari camp for bookings, giving guests a front-row seat to the Great Migration in the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy. The lodge features 12 luxurious tents with sweeping roofs, large private verandas, and four-poster beds, accommodating up to 24 guests, with full buy-outs available for groups seeking a more intimate safari experience. Twice-daily game drives with expert guides provide ample opportunities to spot the Big Five, as well as wildebeest, zebra, cheetah, giraffe, impala, and gazelle. After an exhilarating day in the bush, unwind at the on-site spa with treatments inspired by the African sun and the soothing flow of water.

Address: Mahali Mzuri, Masai Mara, Motorogi Conservancy, Kenya

Best for families

A once-in-a-lifetime family getaway

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania

The Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti is a once-in-a-lifetime family getaway packed with adventure, offering endless fun for little ones . Kids can set up remote camera traps, join nature walks, and enjoy storytelling with Maasai warriors — they even get a special passport to track all the animals they spot. Teenagers will love the Discovery Centre, where they can learn about local wildlife and cultures and contribute to ongoing research projects. Game drives in the surrounding Serengeti National Park with local tribespeople and hot air balloon safaris are the highlights, available respectively to all guests aged two and seven and above.

Address: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Four Seasons Road, Serengeti, Tanzania

Best for convenience

A retreat just 30 minutes from Uganda's main airport

Entebbe Forest Lodge, Uganda

Ditch the long drives and get straight to the heart of nature at Entebbe Forest Lodge, just 30 minutes away from Uganda's main airport. This eight-cabin hideaway offers contemporary comforts with floor-to-ceiling windows and free-standing bathtubs that bring you eye-to-eye with red-tailed monkeys and colourful exotic birds like the African Fish Eagle and Kingfisher. For a more unique adventure, take a 45-minute speedboat or private helicopter transfer to the 100-acre Ngamba Island to meet free-roaming orphaned chimps living their best wild lives after being rescued from the illegal pet and bushmeat trades.

Address: Entebbe Forest Lodge, Garuga, Bukaya, Entebbe, Uganda

World's Best Adventure Holidays

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 11.06.2024

Dreaming of a fantastic adventure holiday? We’ve hand-picked ten destinations that deliver exactly that. Here is our list of places that offer unforgettable opportunities to enjoy pulse-quickening experiences of a lifetime. Take your pick from ice-caving glacial lagoons, ziplining tropical rainforests, trekking sweeping desert landscapes, and soaring over cliffs and canyons in a copter.

1. Croatia: best adventure holidays in Europe

2. iceland: active holiday with stunning scenery, 3. cuba: best adventure holidays for cyclists, 4. south africa: unforgettable wildlife holidays, 5. costa rica: best adventure holidays in central america, 6. yellowstone national park: most adventure holidays in the us, 7. oman: active holiday for sightseeing&snorkeling.

• 8. Sri Lanka: adventure family holidays

9. Mexico: perfect holiday for explorers

10. kauai, hawaii: best hiking holidays, 11. galapagos islands: island-hopping adventure holidays.

The information in this article is inspired by the The Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for visiting the world.

That said, adventure isn’t only about satisfying cravings for high-octane kicks. Adventure also means getting off the beaten track for extraordinary wildlife-watching experiences , spending nights star-gazing in remote wildernesses or finding your new favourite food in local markets.

Travel ideas for South Africa, created by local experts

7 days  / from 4800 USD

Cape Town and Garden Route - a luxury guided tour

Cape Town and the Garden Route have it all - a fascinating culture, safaris, chocolate and wine tasting, and much more. Discover the coastal city of Cape Town and the Peninsula before heading out to the Garden Route with Knysna and Mossel Bay, where you'll experience some game drives.

15 days  / from 4000 USD

The Cape Peninsula and Safaris in Kruger and Pilanesberg

Wildlife in South Africa is still truly wild, a fact that you'll be able to discover in this fascinating two weeks trip. Enjoy whale watching in Cape Town and first safaris in Aquila before heading up north: the famous Kruger and Pilanesberg national parks with all its wildlife await.

7 days  / from 3000 USD

Explore the North of South Africa: Sun City and Madikwe game reserve

For those short on time, staying close to Johannesburg may make sense. On this trip, you'll arrive and depart in Johannesburg and then transfer to the theme park Lost City before continuing to Madikwe for a few days of game drives to spot plenty of wildlife.

17 days  / from 4500 USD

Secret gem in South Africa - Northern Cape Self Drive

Embark on an epic self-drive adventure from Cape Town to the Northern Cape. Witness the breathtaking floral displays of Namaqualand, marvel at the diverse wildlife in Karoo National Park, and be captivated by the awe-inspiring cascades of Augrabies Falls.

7 days  / from 950 USD

A family self drive in South Africa & Swaziland

Take the family on an African adventure in your own rental car, it's the ideal companion to discover Kruger National Park at your own pace. Further on to Swaziland and then Hluhluwe, this trip focuses on wildlife and exploration, all at your leisure.

3 days  / from 1000 USD

A Kruger adventure

Kruger National Park is one of the best known national parks in South Africa and always worth a visit. Starting and ending in Johannesburg is the most convenient one, the perfect stop to then take a domestic flight towards George or Cape Town for the rest of your trip.

Adventure awaits: hiking, cycling, river-rafting and quad-biking 

WhiIe spectacular UNESCO-designated  Dubrovnik  understandably attracts a whopping number of visitors each year, as does the country’s  beaches  and islands , Croatia’s adventure offerings are every bit as epic, not least in  Plitvice Lakes National Park , another UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

This emerald wilderness of mighty mountains, lakes and waterfalls offers twelve hiking trails through pristine landscapes that’ll take your breath away. 

More untouched wilderness awaits in Northern Velebit National Park. The Velebit massif, Croatia’s longest mountain, rewards hikers with a mind-blowing mix of craggy cliffs and limestone peaks, wildflower meadows, and pine forests that seem to extend to infinity. 

Croatia's Plitvice Lakes National Park - a place to enjoy adventure holidays in epic surroundings © Shutterstock

If you fancy picking up the pace, head to the glorious Gacka River valley or the Konavle region for bone-juddering, off-road quad safaris, while white-knuckle experiences can be had rafting the white-water rapids of the Cetina River, taking in canyons and karst fields along the way. 

For more inspiration — and to take the hassle out of planning — take a look at our 100% customisable  ultimate adventure trip around Croatia and the Rough Guide to Croatia .

Meanwhile, newbies will want to read our  first-timers guide to Croatia , find out about the best things to do in Croatia and gaze upon the best beaches in Croatia . Been there, done that? Discover  unusual things to do in Croatia . 

Where to stay in Croatia

Ethno Houses Plitvice Lakes  offers rustic elegance a mere 400 metres from the park’s highest waterfall.

Adventure awaits: ice-caving, glacier-hiking, lava-caving and intercontinental snorkelling

With frozen glaciers, dramatic fjords, mighty volcanoes, and the  northern lights ,  Iceland  is a ruggedly majestic stunner of a country. But don’t just take our word for it — see for yourself in our  gallery . 

Given the drama of its landscapes, it’s little wonder that Iceland is one of the world’s top hiking destinations, whether you head to the glacial valleys and lava fields of the  enchanting east , or fancy exploring the remote waterfalls of the  wild west . 

Serious hiker? Discover Iceland’s most  extreme trail .

Iceland also offers unique opportunities to find adventure in bona fide fairy tale landscapes. You could, for example, take a Crystal Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The enchanting cave is part of Europe’s biggest glacier, Vatnajökull Glacier, and presents itself as a sparkle of heavenly blue hues.

Extraordinary landscapes yield extraordinary adventures in Skaftafell, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland © Jens Ottoson/Shutterstock

Iceland is also a hotspot for unforgettable water experiences. Head to the Silfra Fissure to snorkel between North America and Europe and try lava caving. Then there are all those bubbling geothermal springs to relax in after you’ve flexed your muscles. Before you take the plunge, discover  Iceland’s best hot pools , and read up on the  dos and don’ts of Icelandic spas .

With so much to see and do, you'll want to be informed about the best travel experiences in Iceland . Or, if you like to do things your own way, read our rundown of  the best things to do in Iceland . For more inspiration, take a look at the best places to stay in Iceland and Rough Guides'  Iceland itineraries .

Where to stay in Iceland

Just 10 minutes from the Blue Lagoon, boutique  Silica Hotel  boasts its own lagoon, with room verandas overlooking lava fields.

Adventure awaits: biking, hiking, wildlife-watching and water-sports 

If you think of  Cuba, chances are your mind’s eye will conjure images of idyllic Caribbean beaches , classic cars, colonial architecture, revolution, and the  romance of Cuba . But alongside its coastal and cultural attractions, Cuba offers a tonne of exhilarating adventure experiences. 

To truly get off the beaten track, you could consider taking a  Cuban bike trip . After exploring intoxicating, off-beat Havana and fuelling yourself at the  best restaurants in Cuba , head to the Las Terrazas Biosphere Reserve for an undulating 200m climb through spectacular scenery before a speedy downhill run to Soroa.

Going it alone? Discover the  best places to cycle in Cuba  and read our tips for backpacking through Cuba . Serious cyclists might also want to discover the world’s most  epic cycle routes . 

For more biking or hiking adventures,  Viñales  National Park is a must-visit, with its striking landscape of boulder-like hills exuding decidedly prehistoric vibes. Satisfying trekking can also be enjoyed in the pine-forested  Sierra del Escambray and the cloud forests of the Sierra Maestra.

Already started planning your holiday in Cuba? Explore your options for the best ways to get there .

Feel revitalised in Cuba's Vinales Valley © Shutterstock

Want to watch wildlife? The Península de Zapata National Park is an unspoilt paradise for birdlife, including the endemic Zapata rail and the Cuban pygmy owl, along with plenty of boars, iguanas and crocodiles.

The  Peninsula de Zapata  is also a hotspot for excellent scuba diving and snorkelling, as is the  Jardines del Rey . Fringed by 400km of coral reef, this archipelago has over forty dive sites to explore — think enchanting forests of colourful sponges teeming with tropical fish.

Ready to dive into Cuba’s diverse delights? From  family-focused adventure itineraries to extended off-the-beaten-track tours , Rough Guides’ tailor-made trips have a host of activity-based ideas for Cuba. You might also want to discover the  best places to go in Cuba on a first-time visit and the best beaches near Havana and get your hands on our in-depth guidebook .

Adventure awaits: safaris, cycling, hiking, climbing and road trips

Going on  safari in South Africa  is one of those unforgettable adventure experiences of a lifetime, with Kruger National Park offering one of the world’s widest diversity of wildlife. Around 140 species of mammals — including all the Big Five — and 500 species of birds call Kruger home.

Covering an area the size of Wales, you could spend days here and still not see everything, so read our  first-timers guide  to give yourself a decent shot at it, and consider opting for a private guided tour of the park. It's also worth taking the time to discover how to safari safely and ethically .

Roving rangers in Kruger National Park, South Africa © Rich T Photo/Shutterstock

Alternatively, if you fancy having more freedom to truly immerse yourself in the region, consider a  self-drive tour – check out the best road trip routes in South Africa . That way you can spend as long as you like in Kruger National Park before exploring the likes of Blyde River Canyon, and Dullstroom’s highlands, where pretty fishing villages serve as gateways to hiking trails and rock-climbing sites.

Want to give your kids an unforgettable safari experience? Read everything you need to know about travelling to South Africa with kids .

Need convincing about self-drive breaks? Here is a host of  reasons to choose a road trip for your next adventure . 

Another exhilarating way to experience South Africa is to  cycle the Garden Route  — ideal for adventurers who want the challenge of cycling a variety of terrain while taking in  outstanding scenery , with  fine food and wine  on hand to provide post-ride replenishment. 

From tours covering  safaris and culture to discovering wildlife, wine and whales around Cape Town , check Rough Guides’ customisable South Africa itineraries for inspiration.

Where to stay in South Africa

Kicking off your South African adventure in Cape Town?  Cape Grace Hotel  is flanked by Table Mountain and has a private quay.

Related articles from the blog

Adventure awaits: ziplining, hiking, surfing and wildlife-watching

One of the world’s most biodiverse countries, it’s not for nothing that  Costa Rica  features in our  best places on earth . It also happens to be among the world’s best destinations for adventurous nature lovers. 

Whether you’re into wildlife watching or more high-octane experiences, Costa Rica sure isn’t short of  beautiful national parks  for walks on the wild side. Experienced hikers might want to tackle a 20km trek through Parque Nacional Corcovado. Alive with toucans, sloths, howler monkeys, and the thrum and shimmer of hummingbirds, you might get lucky and glimpse an ocelot or jaguar. 

For a less hardcore (but every bit as rewarding) hike, head to Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja in  Guanacaste , where a 6km circuit unfolds in the shadow of a smoking volcano. 

Wild waterfalls await walkers in Rincon de La Vieja National Park, Costa Rica © Shutterstock

Meanwhile, alongside being a great place for birdwatching, Monteverde cloud forest delivers pulse-quickening kicks. Take a  mega-mix adventure trip  to experience the whole kit and caboodle of ziplines, swings and climbing thrills.

Want to get wild on the water? Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is a prime surfing spot, but since the country spans both the Pacific Ocean and  the Caribbean  Sea, it offers a huge variety of coastal experiences, so it’ll be worth reading up on the  best beaches in Costa Rica . 

If that wasn’t enough, Costa Rica is also the perfect place to put your plans to travel more sustainably into practice. For decades, Costa Rica’s eco-lodges and activity offerings have been blazing a trail for responsible tourism. 

To help choose your base, discover the  best hikes in Costa Rica . Keen photographers might also want to know where to see the country’s  best waterfalls . Our  Costa Rica travel tips  and customisable  eco-adventure itinerary might also come in handy for pre-trip inspiration.

Interested in adventuring around the wider region? Read our overview of Central America’s top adventure experiences . And, if you’re planning to go it alone for longer, arm yourself with  tips for back-packing Central America and top tips for visiting Costa Rica .

Where to stay in Costa Rica

Want to be close to the beach and forest? Locations don’t come better than  Lapa Rios Eco Lodge .

Adventure awaits: hiking, diving, kayaking, horse-riding and wildlife-watching

Included in our round-up of the best places in the USA to visit (discover all 100 in the  picture-packed Rough Guide ),  Yellowstone National Park  offers a staggering range of landscapes and activities. 

The mountain scenery makes a stunning backdrop for all those hiking and horse-riding excursions. Take a trip to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone to experience that glorious diversity — from the Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful Geyser to Azure Yellowstone Lake and sub-alpine Hayden Valley. 

Alternatively, you could go all out and take an immersive safari driving tour, staying in lodges that are primely located for kayaking and wildlife-watching. Expect to see grizzly bears, huge herds of heavy-bearded bison, elegant horned elk, prairie dogs, eagles, coyotes and wolves. 

Grand Prismatic pool spring in Yellowstone National Park © Lane V. Erickson/Shutterstock

All that considered, it’s no surprise that Yellowstone attracts over four million visitors a year, so you might want to find out how to  avoid the crowds in Yellowstone  and curb the pitfalls of over-tourism. And don't miss Rough Guides look at the truth about tourism in Yellowstone National Park .

Sticking with the sustainable travel theme, consider taking a railroad trip to explore the wider  Rockies  region or more of the USA, for that matter. To start planning, read our  tips for travelling by train in the USA . 

Want to know more about America’s great outdoors? Read our overview of the most stunning national parks in America , and take a look at the inspirational  Rough Guide to the USA’s National Parks . 

Where to stay in Yellowstone National Park

To be close to the action, browse hotels  near Yellowstone National Park’s west entrance.

Adventure awaits: desert trekking, turtle-watching, snorkelling and star-gazing

If you’re looking for fresh adventures in a genuinely lesser-visited location,  Oman  might just be your cup of saffron-spiced coffee, best served from a traditional dallah pot.

Before heading off on your desert-to-coast adventures, you’ll want to make time to explore Muscat , which offers unforgettable opportunities to discover ancient Arabic culture alongside cutting-edge, contemporary architecture, courtesy of its Grand Mosque.

To experience Muscat’s diversity,  take a Muscat tour  that includes a visit to the ancient city of Nizwa (don’t miss the market), and Bahla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a formidable 13th-century fort at the heart of its oasis settlement. But that's not all this city has to offer — discover more reasons to love Muscat .

Muscat is also the ideal base from which to visit the otherworldly Wadi Shab pool, cave and Bimah sinkhole , and to enjoy  whale and dolphin-watching excursions and snorkelling . The idyllic, UNESCO-protected Dimaniyat Islands are guaranteed to stir your soul as they present an astounding array of marine life. 

Oman's desert in atmospheric night mode © Shutterstock

For the ultimate Omani experience, head to Wahiba Sands to see undulating dunes shift from gold to burnished orange before heavenly star-gazing opportunities unfold. 

Meanwhile, nature lovers won’t want to miss exploring Ras Al Jinz bay. Happily, this important nesting site for green turtles is within reach of Wadi Bani Khalid, where curving canyons and cooling pools show Oman in sublime light. 

If the country is new to you, read our  guide for first-timers to Oman , and find out what you  won’t want to miss in Oman . To cover more ground without the stress of planning, you could consider booking a  tailor-made Omani adventure trip .

Alternatively, if you want an all-out independent experience, discover more about  wild camping in Oman , and dig into the in-depth  Rough Guide to Oman .

Where to stay in Oman

Offering sunset camel rides, sweeping desert surroundings, and stirring star-gazing experiences,  Sama al Wasil is a delight.

8. Sri Lanka: adventure family holidays 

Adventure awaits: trekking, abseiling, climbing, safaris and surfing

Though modest in size, jewel-shaped  Sri Lanka  is a diamond of a destination for adventurous travellers, especially those who want to get to know the culture and wildlife of the destinations they visit and enjoy  Sri Lanka's great food . 

One of the most rewarding aspects of visiting this dramatic Indian Ocean island is the fact that its hiking trails also afford incredible wildlife-watching opportunities. This certainly holds true while trekking to Single Tree Hill. Starting in Shanthipura, Sri Lanka’s highest village, the trail traverses the forest habitats of wild boars, sambar deer and leopards. And don't miss 10 reasons to discover Sri Lanka's east coast .

You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to full-on safaris. For  first-time visitors to Sri Lanka , we especially recommend Yala National Park  and Gal Oya National Park, both of which teem with birds, elephants, sloth bears, leopards, jackals, marsh mugger crocs, and much more besides. For added atmosphere (and lively birds), you can’t beat taking a golden hours safari through Yala .

Want to have an unforgettable experience on a family vacation to Sri Lanka? Read our guide to Sri Lanka with kids and pick up some useful tips.

Talking of golden hours, southern Sri Lanka features in our round-up of the best places to visit in winter for the sun .

Look out for leopards in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock

Experienced climbers will want to tackle K1 (also known as Kirigalpotta), the highest point of the Horton Plains Sanctuary. Traversing grassland, marshland, cloud forest and rocks, the trail is nothing but diverse, and you might just see leopards along the way. 

But Sri Lanka’s adventure activities aren’t limited to its interior. The island’s coastline offers  incredible surf , with  beautiful Sri Lankan beaches  to rest upon between riding those waves. There are plenty of  places to go whale-watching in Sri Lanka , too, with  trips from Mirissa  of longstanding repute. 

Planning family adventure holidays? Find out  why Sri Lanka should be the next place you take your kids . If you’re going it alone, read our tips for solo travel . Or, to skip the pain of planning, Rough Guides’  Sri Lanka for adventure-lovers trip can be customised to your exact spec.

Where to stay in Sri Lanka

For rewarding walks, Queenswood Cottage  is well-located in Nuwara Eliya, Central Sri Lanka, and beautiful with it.

Adventure awaits: Mayan exploration, hiking, canyoning, cave-diving and wildlife-watching  

If your idea of adventure holidays involves intrepid treks through dense rainforests to explore ancient cities — with a whole lot of wildlife wonders to be wowed by en route — Mexico should be top of your wish list. 

To experience exactly that in a single trip, you might want to take the  Mayan Trail .  Tulum’s  archaeological treasures aren’t exactly off the beaten track, but their spectacular (and unusual) coastal setting makes them a must-visit. 

What’s more, Tulum is within reach of the beautiful Bacalar Lagoon, and the lesser-visited Kohunlich ruins. Located deep in the jungle, and best known for its Palace of Masks, this ancient Mayan city exudes a truly magical atmosphere. 

With over 360 bird species recorded here, and being home to over 100 species of mammal, Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is the perfect place for wildlife watchers. Find out  where else to see animals in Mexico . 

In addition, given that this sprawling site also includes over 6000 Mayan structures, most of which are still being excavated, Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is also a sure-fire winner for wannabe explorers.  

A stunning sunset over Chichén Itzá, Mexico © Shutterstock

Hailed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it’s worth devoting a day to exploring  Chichén Itzá . Alternatively, if you’re staying in the  Cancun region  and find yourself hankering for activities beyond the beach, book a Chichén Itzá tour with added adventure  — take your pick from ziplining, driving amphibious vehicles, and rafting underground caves. 

Talking of caves, if you’re feeling brave, the  Yucatán  Peninsula is known for its cenotes — underwater limestone caves that deliver refreshing dive experiences. Discover the  cool places to visit in Mexico . 

Meanwhile, Sumidero Canyon National Park, located in the state of  Chiapas  and accessed via boat, offers a smorgasbord of outdoor activities, from kayaking and abseiling to zip-lining and mountain biking. Or you could always book a nature-oriented trip that includes visiting Chiapa de Corzo , where craft markets and ancient ruins await. 

Given the country’s diverse offerings – we haven’t even mentioned all those  beautiful Mexican beaches  and   Mexico's incredible food  — you might want to read up on  things not to miss in Mexico  before booking your trip. 

Rough Guides’  customisable Mexico itineraries  also offer plenty of inspiration, whether you want to immerse yourself in Mayan culture during a  self-drive trip around Yucatan , or fancy an  authentic experience in Central Mexico .  If you're travelling with little ones in tow, don't miss our guide to visiting Mexico with kids .

Where to stay in Mexico

The perfect base from which to explore the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve and a tonne of Mayan sites, eco-minded, jungle-surrounded  Casa Kaan Calakmul  is a top place to rest your head.

Adventure awaits:  hiking, helicopter-riding, kayaking and feasting

Known as Hawaii's Garden Island ,  Kauai  is a lush and lesser-visited destination that made it into the Rough Guide to the 100 Best Places on Earth . 

With over half its 550-square miles reserved for conservation and preservation and tonnes of tropical forests, hiking trails, zip lines, and excellent surf, Kauai epitomises adventure, with its iconic Na Pali Coast delivering peak pulse-quickening activities and scenery. 

Often featured in Hollywood adventure movies, the Na Pali Coast is inaccessible to vehicles, which means you’ll have to get into Jurassic Park mode to see its staggering rock spires. Take your pick from paddle-boarding, kayaking, or booking a  private plane or helicopter trip  that offers exhilarating views of both the coast and  Waimea Canyon . 

Hardcore hikers will want to consider hiking Na Pali’s Kalalau Trail. Definitely not for the inexperienced or faint-hearted, this showcases why Kauai is regarded as one of the world’s best hiking destinations. 

The Na-Pali coast of Kauai, Hawaii, is like no place on earth © Shutterstock

Starting alongside Kee Beach, the 11-mile trek to Kalalau Valley involves increasingly challenging scrambles and climbs. The first two miles of the trail to Hanakapiai Beach aren’t too tricky, though you’ll still have to clamber through dense vegetation to reach it. From the beach, a sub-trail leads to the thundering, jungle-bounded Hanakapiai Falls. 

Keen to up your hiking game? Discover hiking tips  that’ll serve you well wherever you are in the world.  

After spending your day surfing, hiking, or  zip-lining Kauai’s tropical forests , you might want to enjoy fine food while learning about local legends and history at an  Island Dinner and Luau Kalamaku Show . Though known as an adventure holidays destination, Kauai’s certainly not short of cultural experiences.

If Kauai’s unspoiled remoteness and sense of adventure have sparked your interest, you might also fall for the  surfer’s holy grail of the remote Marshall Islands , an archipelago located between Hawaii and the Philippines. Alternatively, get the lowdown on all six of  Hawaii’s freely visited Islands .

Where to stay in Kauai

Set near crescent-shaped Poipu Beach (great for safe swimming, novice surfers, and snorkellers),  Hideaway Cove  offers laidback comfort in stunning surroundings.

Hanalei Bay and Pier on Kauai, Hawaii © Steve Heap/Shutterstock

Adventure awaits: volcanic islands, matchless wildlife, stunning scenery and unique history.

It’s quite humbling that thirteen scarred volcanic islands and more than a hundred islets, scattered across the ocean should have been so instrumental in changing humanity’s perception of itself. Yet it was the forbidding Galápagos Islands that spurred Charles Darwin to formulate his theory of evolution by natural selection, catapulting science into the modern era.

Galapagos Island still gives an unparalleled insight into the mechanics of nature at one of the world’s most treasured wildlife destinations . Today the archipelago’s matchless wildlife, stunning scenery and unique history make it arguably the world’s premier wildlife destination.

The animals that have carved out an existence on the dramatic volcanic landscape have a legendary fearlessness. This results in close-up encounters that are simply not possible anywhere else on Earth. Witnessing first-hand the mating dance of the blue-footed booby and snorkelling with sea lions, turtles, penguins and sharks are just a couple of the unforgettable experiences that await you.

The Galapagos is undoubtedly one of the most tempting destinations for adventure holidays in South America. You'll find even more ideas for your holiday in our guide to incredible South American journeys .

Besides all the other benefits, the Galapagos is also great for a family vacation. To prepare for such a trip, read our guide to Ecuador with kids .

Follow in Charles Darwin's footsteps with this compact tailor-made trip to the Galapagos Islands . Spot the giant tortoise, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and sea lions. All in their natural habitat, lounging and feeding as you walk or swim by. You can also find more ideas for your trip in our Galapagos itineraries .

To get the most out of your trip, also read our guide on the best time to visit Galapagos Islands .

Interested in adventuring around the wider region? Also, read our Rough Guide to Ecuador & The Galápagos or Rough Guide to South America on a Budget .

Galapagos iguana © Shutterstock

Where to stay on Galapagos Islands

Puerto Ayora is the nerve centre of the conservation programme, and headquarters of both the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Parque Nacional Galápagos. Home to more boats, tour brokers, hotels and restaurants than anywhere else in the islands, Puerto Ayora is also the best place for budget travellers to find last-minute places on cruises.

Inspired? Discover where else to find  serious adventure in some of the world’s wildest places . And remember, wherever you’re thinking of heading, there’ll be a Rough Guides guidebook or ebook to support you along every step of your journey, while our  tailor-made trips  take all the hassle out of planning.

Finally, to support you through your post-adventure comedown, you might want to bookmark our  advice for adjusting to life after travelling   — you can thank us later. 

Bartolome Island, Galapagos, Ecuador. Bartolome Island is a volcanic islet in the Galapagos Islands with an amazing viewpoint at the top © Seumas Christie-Johnston/Shutterstock

After discovering a full gamut of places to go for fantastic adventure holidays, you might want to arm yourself with  ways to find more adventure during all your travels. Our gallery of seriously weird places around the world also offers inspiration for adventurous travellers seeking alternate experiences.

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Header image: diving adventures in Mexico © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

• Off the Beaten Track
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• Diving & Snorkeling
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• South Africa
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Where to Go on an African Safari in April

April is a good time to visit parts of South Africa and Botswana. It’s the Green season (Wet season) in Tanzania’s Northern circuit, which means a fair amount of rain, but the scenery is spectacular and you might get low-season deals. South Africa’s Cape region mostly experiences wonderful weather in April and you can easily combine a trip here with a safari in one of the reserves in the Garden Route or Kruger National Park.

Best Time per Country

Flag of zimbabwe zimbabwe in april.

• Everything is green after the rains
• Moderate temperatures and little rainfall make for lovely weather
• Excellent birding with some migratory birds still present
• The spray of Victoria Falls blocks the views
• Animals are harder to spot than in the middle of the Dry season

Flag of Zambia Zambia in April

• Lush scenery after the rains
• Great birding with many migratory birds still present
• There is little rain at the end of the Wet season
• Some roads are in bad condition after the rains
• Animals are spread out and wildlife viewing isn’t as good as in the Dry season

Flag of South Africa South Africa in April

• Mild weather and little rain
• Fresh scenery after the rains
• Great birding with some migrants still present
• Low season (except for Easter holidays)
• Wildlife viewing in the main parks is better in the Dry season

Flag of Uganda Uganda in April

• The savannah reserves are spectacularly green
• Gorilla and chimp trekking always go ahead, even if it rains
• Low-season rates might apply
• Peak of the Wet season with lots of rain
• Roads deteriorate and forest paths are slippery
• Some lodges close down

Flag of Tanzania Tanzania in April

• There are no crowds in the low season
• Although Wet season, you can still have a good safari in the Northern circuit
• Beautiful green landscapes
• Animals scatter and are harder to find

Flag of Rwanda Rwanda in April

• Although this isn’t the best time, gorilla trekking never gets canceled
• Everything is green and the sky is free of haze and dust
• It is low season; there are few visitors and gorilla permits are easier to get
• There is lots of rain
• Roads might deteriorate and forest paths are slippery

Flag of Namibia Namibia in April

• Beautiful scenery and dust-free skies
• Excellent birding
• Low season means few crowds
• The weather is fine with little rain and moderate temperatures
• Animals are still spread out after the rains – especially in Etosha National Park

Flag of Kenya Kenya in April

• Beautiful green scenery
• Peak of the Wet season, roads can be in bad condition
• Wildlife viewing is not as good as in the Dry season
• Some camps close down for off season

Flag of Botswana Botswana in April

• The scenery is spectacular after all the rains
• There are few visitors in low season
• The birding is very good
• Lovely weather with minimal rainfall and moderate temperatures
• Wildlife viewing is better in the middle and end of the Dry season

Visiting month

Best safari parks to visit in april.

See below for an overview of the best parks to visit in Africa by country. Please note that the listings focus on the most popular parks only and are not comprehensive.

Flag of Botswana Botswana

Best parks & reserves in april.

Central Kalahari GR Excellent

Chobe NP Good

Moremi GR Good

Okavango Delta Good

Flag of Kenya Kenya

No Best Parks & Reserves in April

Kenya does not have parks that are best visited in April. When to visit Kenya?

Flag of Namibia Namibia

Namib-Naukluft NP Good

Skeleton Coast NP Good

Flag of Rwanda Rwanda

Rwanda does not have parks that are best visited in April. When to visit Rwanda?

Flag of South Africa South Africa

Kgalagadi TP Excellent

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi GR Good

Kruger NP Good

Sabi Sand GR Good

Flag of Tanzania Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater Good

Flag of Uganda Uganda

Murchison Falls NP Good

Flag of Zambia Zambia

Zambia does not have parks that are best visited in April. When to visit Zambia?

Flag of Zimbabwe Zimbabwe

Hwange NP Good

All Parks & Reserves

Safari highlights in april.

Unpredictability is the name of the game on safari. That’s what makes it so exciting. However, some highlights are seasonal and it makes sense to plan your trip carefully to make the most of your time in Africa. If you’re wondering where to go on safari in April, read on here.

The Okavango Delta Starts Flooding in Botswana

Sometime in April, the beginning of the Dry season, the Okavango Delta starts flooding. As the waters start fanning out, a wonderful maze of lagoons, channels and floating islands emerges in the middle of the Kalahari Desert. This is a glorious time to go out in mokoro canoes as everything is green, but conditions are mostly dry. Wildlife viewing is best from July to October, which is the high season.

Victoria Falls Is in Full Flow

After the summer’s rain, Victoria Falls is in full flow. The waterfall can be viewed from Zimbabwe or Zambia, but why not visit both sides for a different perspective. Seeing the mighty Zambezi tumble down in a 1.7km-wide sheet of water is a powerful experience. Rainbows play in the drenching spray and the thunderous noise will take your breath away. Impressive as it is, you might find the views blocked by mist, so a helicopter flight is recommended to get the full picture.

Excellent time for wildlife viewing in Kgalagadi, South Africa

April is an excellent time to visit Kgalagadi, the transfrontier park shared between South Africa and Botswana. Wildlife viewing in this semi-arid region is good throughout the year, but possibly best around April, after the rains, when animals gather in the riverbeds. This shoulder month is also a good choice weather-wise. Temperatures start to drop and the heat is more tolerable than in mid-summer. Winter nights, on the other hand, are really cold.

Diving in Seychelles’ Crystal-clear Waters

April is the warmest and least windy month of the year in Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 idyllic islands in the Indian Ocean off East Africa. This is perfect weather for relaxation on the white sandy beaches. These calm conditions make April ideal for water activities too, most notably snorkeling and diving. Not only can boats reach remote spots to find sharks and manta rays, the clear waters offer amazing visibility in April – up to a staggering 30m.

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The 12 Best Water Safaris Around the World, From Antarctic Cruises to Botswana River Journeys

Waterborne safaris extend far beyond africa, to the amazon, borneo, alaska and the antarctic. here are the best ways to access exotic wildlife by boat., gemma harris, gemma harris's most recent stories.

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The term safari typically evokes images of dusty African savannahs and bouncy 4×4 rides in pursuit of the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo. While this classic game-drive ritual has its place, a different breed of water-based adventures is gaining momentum.

In Africa, swapping wheels for hulls can save time. In Rwanda, for instance, traveling aboard the Kivu Queen uBuranga , the first motorized houseboat on Lake Kivu, cuts travel time for gorilla trekking jaunts in the Volcanoes National Park or searching for chimpanzees in the Nyungwe Forest National Park. Both would take many hours by car. Plus it’s just a much more pleasant way to travel.

In other parts of the world, the only way to see marine wildlife is by boat. “Cruises are great for visiting more areas and seeing a variety of landscapes,” Allie Almario, the Galapagos and Amazon safari expert at Philadelphia-based Premier Tours, told Robb Report. “ Going by boat in the Amazon, for example, allows you to navigate the tributaries easily for access into some of its most remote areas.”

We’ve curated our favorite water trips to animal-laden lands, whether it’s traveling in a houseboat or go-anywhere expedition vessel, drifting along rivers or cruising to the world’s most remote polar regions. Accommodations range from intimate five-star island hideaways to brand-new superyachts to more communal, high-end river boats. What they share: A wildlife-focused itinerary that not only provides opportunities to witness water-dwelling species but also the diversity of fish and underwater mammals and wide-ranging bird species, all from the comfort of a luxurious floating camp.

Here are 12 of our favorites.

Botswana, Sitatunga Island

The latest in Great Plains’s water-based reserve collection, this private island camp is surrounded by waterways can be accessed only by boat or helicopter. Sitatunga Island blends traditional safaris with boating, thereby elevating the freedom and peacefulness of observing the Okavango Delta’s primal residents. Gliding along in the 22-footer motorboat or mokoro—a traditional dugout canoe—covers more ground, while delving deeper into the landscape. In the new five-star resort, four opulent wooden suites (one a very large double) are equipped with poster beds, open screened sides that offer exceptional wildlife viewing, espresso machines, wine and liquor, plunge pools, and Peloton bikes. Each suite also has a professional camera for capturing hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and hundreds of exotic bird species. Add to that gourmet meals, exceptional service, and halcyon sunsets over the Okavango River, and this could be the most exclusive water safari in Botswana. Surrounding camps from other providers such as Jao, Xigera, and Vumbura, also embrace a similar ethos, combining land and water safaris. Best time: low season (October through February). Cost via Premier Tours : $13,690 per person, including all internal flights and helicopter trips to and from the island. Travel to/from Botswana not included.  

Costa Rica, Cocos Island, ‘SuRi’

Cocos Island, flung 340 miles off Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, has lush mountainous landscapes, countless waterfalls, intriguing cloud forests, and an ocean full of incredible diving. It’s so wild, in fact, that it inspired Jurassic Park. While you won’t find any T-Rexes, park rangers keep an eye on the several species that call the island home. But most of the wildlife is in the ocean, including marine mammals such as humpback whales, sea lions, and bottlenose dolphins. The shark-infested UNESCO waters are best explored aboard the 208-foot explorer SuRi , which offering a nature-themed itinerary from diving with marine biologists alongside the sharks, manta rays, and turtles to kayaking with dolphins to secluded beach hikes among vast bird species. Outfitter Cookson Adventures  also offers hands-on involvement with conservation projects, such as geotagging whale sharks. Best time: June-December. Cost without airfare: Private charter. from $350,000 per week.

Antarctica, ‘Hanse Explorer’

Uninhabited by humans but filled with wildlife, the vast white continent provides an incomparable polar experience. Bypassing a long cruise through Drake Passage, EYOS offers the option to fly in to join the 156-foot, ice-classed Hanse Explorer for traversing the continent’s most remote waters. The vessel’s six staterooms allow a group 12 to venture into the ice with expert guides. Penguin colonies, whales breaching across the yacht’s bow, and herds of seals offer some of the best polar experiences available. After excursions and, of course, the requisite polar plunge, guests can warm up in the Finnish sauna and then enjoy more sea views from the sundeck Jacuzzi. Best time: November-March. Cost without airfare: Private charter from $235,000 per week. 

Galapagos Islands, ‘Stella Maris’

Straddling the equator, the Galapagos Islands promise year-round, water-based wildlife adventures. The volcanic archipelago is home to species found nowhere else on Earth, from blue-footed boobies and giant land iguanas to Galapagos penguins and hundreds more. A visit aboard superyacht  Stella Maris will let any visitor realize how Charles Darwin came up with his theory of evolution by natural selection. The 164-footer has seven well-appointed cabins for relaxing between island visits. Cruising amid the wild things—which change dramatically from island to island—offers a slew of activities, from trekking alongside giant tortoises to tender rides through mangroves to hanging out underwater with boisterous sea lions and hammerhead sharks. The yacht’s guides understand the diversity of the islands, unveiling each creature’s history. Best time: December-May. Cost without airfare: Aqua Expeditions can arrange a full-yacht charter from $218.500 per week.

Norway, Svalbard, ‘Scintilla Maris’

Frozen for months but passable from April to August under 24-hour daylight, this archipelago is abundant with Arctic wildlife. The unusual 150-foot Scintilla Maris , recently converted from a Damen trawler vessel, is the ideal launch pad for Svalbard. Its seafaring capabilities let it weave into the ice floes of this archipelago. Wildlife highlights include seals, reindeer, arctic fox, and the main attraction, the polar bear. They can be viewed up close from the Zodiacs or from heated seating in the yacht’s dedicated observation area, 39 feet above the water. The boat’s vibration-free hybrid propulsion extends the comfort while in electric-only mode, creating a tranquil environment for wildlife encounters. These waters are also a crossroads for multiple whale species, making whale watching one of the highlights. Best time: May-August. Cost without airfare: Pelorus-arranged private charter starting at $160,000 per week. 

Australia, Great Barrier Reef, ‘Beluga’

The world’s largest coral-reef system reveals an aquatic ecosystem that is best explored by water, thanks to 9,000 species below the surface. Though the Great Barrier Reef is experiencing significant environmental challenges, much of it remains a treasure trove for snorkelers and divers. The 113-foot Beluga takes up to 10 guests throughout June and July to the only place one can swim with dwarf minke whales. The yacht has a 40-foot chase boat, aptly named Minke, with ten sets of dive gear. The crow’s nest at the top of the yacht is the perfect place for more whale watching under way. Best time: November-April. Cost without airfare: Ocean Alliance charter from $75,000 per week. 

Borneo, Sabah, ‘Kudanil’

Teeming with life, Sabah’s east coast is one of Southeast Asia’s top wildlife-watching destinations. Superyachts aren’t just for the ocean here: An animal-centric itinerary onboard the 164-foot Kudanil , cruising into the navigable Kinabatangan River, presents some of the world’s rarest species. The river bank includes wild orangutans, the almost extinct Borneo pygmy elephant, the proboscis monkey, and many reptiles and birds. Back in the ocean, as a dive and surf vessel, Kudanil can extend the trip, heading to Sipadan for world-class scuba diving. Best time: May-October. Cost without airfare: Pelorus -arranged private charter from $161,000 per week. 

Alaska Inside Passage, ‘La Datcha’

Along the scenic, remote Inside Passage, wildlife encounters in Alaska are the norm, from wild mink, brown bears fishing for salmon, and harbor seals to pods of orcas and humpback whales. The 252-foot expedition yacht La Datcha offers flexible itineraries through these waters, focusing on the wildlife but also showing the best of the fjords, dramatic island bays, and remote areas that would be otherwise inaccessible except for an explorer vessel of this caliber. Its designated expedition room is filled with specialized gear for onshore and tender excursions. La Datcha ‘s helideck and enclosed hanger also allow exceptional wildlife-viewing far above water levels. Best time: June-August. Cost without airfare: Private charter from $940,000 per week.

Botswana, Chobe River, ‘Zambezi Queen’

Winding through Africa’s wilderness is the Chobe River, this tributary of the Zambezi gives a different perspective of life on the plains. Especially if you’re aboard the Mantis Collection’s 138-foot Zambezi Queen houseboat. If it isn’t impressive enough to see Africa’s wild creatures on land, this vessel lets you wake to leopards drinking and elephants bathing from one of the 14 suites’ private balconies. Tenders bring the action closer for water-based game viewing and, if you’re so inclined, the vessel offers angling for local gamefish. A birder’s paradise, this area of Botswana is home to over 450 bird species. After a day of wildlife spotting, the vessel offers gourmet African-themed dinners. Best time: June-October. Cost without airfare: Luxury suite (per person, per night sharing) $932.

Botswana, Chobe River, ‘Chobe Princess’

Mantis also offers smaller vessels within its portfolio for a more intimate experience of the Chobe River. Moored on the Namibian side, Chobe Princess is part of a trio of similar houseboats available exclusively for families or private parties, with two offering four suites and five in the third. Cruising along the Chobe National Park, the floating safari provides ideal viewing of this game-dense area, with fishing, photographic safaris, birding, and cultural tours. The boat also has a plunge pool and beautiful views. Best time: June-October. Cost without airfare: Luxury suite (per person, per night sharing) $716.

Peru, Amazon, ‘Delfin I’

Aboard the 67-foot Delfin 1 , eight guests gain exclusive access to the world’s largest protected flooded forest—Peru’s Pacaya Samiria National Reserve—accessible only by boat during the rainy season. Navigating through the watery wilderness, the basin’s showstopper is the mystical pink river dolphin found only in these waters. From the shaded observation deck or one of the four plush private-suite terraces, the land also reveals sloths, capybaras, and pygmy marmosets. Night-time safaris via tender reveal the jungle’s nocturnal transformation with black caimans, bats, frogs, and other nocturnal creatures lining the shores. Delfin Cruises partners with local guides to benefit Amazonian communities. Best time: November-May. Cost without airfare: 5 days/4nights, Deluxe suite, $6,500. 

Rwanda, Lake Kivu, ‘Kivu Queen uBuranga’

The Kivu Queen uBuranga has recently pioneered motorized yachting on Lake Kivu’s waters. The lake is a gateway to Rwanda’s kaleidoscopic biodiversity, though it won’t have the big game like northern Botswana. Besides the overarching sense of tranquility, exploring by boat considerably reduces travel times for gorilla trekking jaunts in the Volcanoes National Park or searching for chimpanzees in the Nyungwe Forest National Park. Going by boat is also much more pleasant than having to wander on dusty, remote backroads. Onboard, one can relax in one of the 10 cabins, kick back in the lounge, or unwind in the wellness center. Best time; June-September. Cost without airfare: Mantis -arranged travel: 2/3 night stays (per person/per night/sharing) from $1,500.

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