When Should I Go on Safari

Adorable elephant calves playfully waddle around their parents while a herd of giraffes peacefully munch on acacia leaves. Leopards slink low in tall grasses, two lions ferociously battle for dominance, and a troop of social meerkats peer curiously at the landscape. These are just some of the incredible scenes playing out in the African wilderness as we speak (or should I say, as you read).

If you go on an African safari, scenes like these can be more than words in a blog post—we’re talking real-life The Lion King moments playing out before your very own eyes. It’s no surprise, then, that an African safari is considered a bucket list trip. And, like any once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it usually demands thorough planning, especially if you have certain experiences in mind. One crucial aspect of that planning? Timing.

In Southern and East Africa, time of year can impact safari experiences. Game drives in Kenya during August might look drastically different from April expeditions. South Africa in July isn’t the same as South Africa in February. Weather, tourism, wildlife patterns, and other factors change with the seasons, causing conditions to vary. That said, there isn’t necessarily a “good” and “bad” time to go on an African safari. Rather, different times of year offer different opportunities and challenges.

When it comes to choosing the best times to visit, it all depends on the safari destination and your preferences.

Choosing the Right Season for an African Safari

To select the best time of year for your safari, it’s helpful to understand the area’s different weather patterns.

Understanding the Different Seasons

For Southern and East Africa, June, July, and August are the winter months. While there are exceptions, this time of year generally brings cooler nights and milder daytime temperatures. For example, Johannesburg, South Africa might see highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s (Fahrenheit). In Kenya’s Amboseli National Park, the average high is typically in the 70s, with lows in the 50s.

Meanwhile, summer—along with its higher temps—starts in December. For Johannesburg, this can mean average highs in the mid to upper 70s with lows around 60. In Amboseli, average daytime temperatures typically reach into the 80s.

Both regions also have wet and dry seasons, which are exactly what they sound like. The wet or rainy season brings more significant rainfall, while the dry season sees less, and sometimes no, precipitation.

When are the Wet Season and Dry Season?

The timing of Southern and East Africa’s seasons varies.

When is Wet Season?

Southern Africa generally sees a rainy season that starts around November and ends before June. East African destinations—like areas in Kenya and Tanzania—have two more concentrated stretches of rain that roughly occur from November to December and March through May (the latter period bringing heavier precipitation).

However, there are regional variations. For example, in some areas of South Africa like Cape Town, the winter months are the rainiest.

When is Dry Season?

If it isn’t the wet season, it’s the dry season (or a transitional period). The dry season for Southern and East Africa generally runs from around June to September or October. In parts of East Africa, January and February are also on the less-rainy side.

Again, there are regional differences, so be sure to check on a specific destination’s weather patterns.

The Best Time to Go on an African Safari

East Africa and Southern Africa’s dry and wet seasons offer different safari advantages. But every destination and trip is unique, and conditions and experiences can sometimes deviate from the norm.

For scenic views

“Wet season” is called “green season” for a reason: more rainfall brings lusher landscapes. Those who go on safari during the rainy season are often treated to more beautiful natural scenes and thriving vegetation. The area’s magnificent waterfalls are also at their most thunderous right after heavy rains, before the dry season rolls around. (Think: epic spots like Victoria Falls, which travelers can visit on one of our safari tours!)

For game viewing

The dry season is popularly recommended as the best time for game viewing. A lack of water causes animals to congregate at watering holes and rivers, making spotting easier. However, there’s a chance for sightings year-round, especially in game reserves, national parks, and other areas with concentrated animal populations. The Maasai Mara Game Reserve, Serengeti National Park, and Kruger National Park are just a few locations known for their wildlife. Plus, communication between trackers can help ensure you have the best game drives possible for the conditions you face.

For the Great Migration

The Great Migration is considered one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth. Massive herds of wildebeest, gazelles, zebras, and other animals make a regular migration across the plains of East Africa, with plenty of predators in their wake. On our The Plains of Africa tour, the middle of the dry season (July and early August) is typically the best time to visit for a chance at viewing this migration in Kenya. However, no sightings can ever be guaranteed. After all, these animals are on their own schedule!

For smaller crowds

Low season—aka the rainy season—is the best time to go on safari if you’re hoping to escape the crowds. Because the wet season is less popular, travelers can be rewarded with more intimate game drives and better photo opportunities, as they aren’t competing with peak-season numbers. Other perks can include quieter accommodations, easier access to attractions, and more of a local-living feel in destinations. Plus, traveling during the low season supports local economies and people who rely on tourism.

For comfortable weather

The dry season has milder temperatures and a much lower risk of rain. But, nights and early mornings can be chilly, and you might have to contend with dusty conditions. Meanwhile, a safari during the wet season involves warmer temperatures and varying amounts of rain. This could mean a few quick passing showers over a week or heavier precipitation and potential flooding. Booking through an expert travel company like Collette can help you navigate the weather conditions you encounter.

For bird-watching

For many, the term “safari” conjures images of lions, leopards, elephants, and other large animals. But let’s not overlook our feathered friends, who put on an especially dazzling spectacle during the rainy months. On our Wilderness of Southern Africa and Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls, & Botswana tours, March and April are particularly great for bird watchers.

For a stop in Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa, isn’t a safari destination, but it is a popular spot to explore when journeying to the continent’s southern half. Golden-sand beaches, abundant natural beauty, a vibrant city, and much more make this tip of Africa a must-do for many. If you’re prioritizing dry beach weather, aim to visit during the area’s summer.

Plan an Epic Safari With Collette