The Best Time to Go on Safari in Africa

In Southern Africa, the dry season runs from May to October and is widely regarded as the best time to go on safari.

In South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, game watching is at its peak during the warmer, drier months towards the end of the season (with the exception of Namibia, which is fantastic throughout the year). As vegetation thins and water sources become scarce, animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making wildlife sightings far easier. This period offers excellent chances to see the Big Five, as well as predators, plains game, and diverse birdlife.

Winter nights (June–July) can be cold, but daytime temperatures are generally mild and pleasant. This season also carries the lowest malaria risk in affected regions.

Expect to see:

• Elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo
• Wild dogs (especially in Botswana)
• Large herds of antelope and plains game

December through March is considered the wet or green season across much of Southern Africa. Rain usually falls in short, heavy afternoon or evening storms, rather than all-day rainfall.

This season transforms the landscape into lush greenery and is especially rewarding for travellers interested in:

• Birdlife (migratory species arrive in large numbers)
• Calving season, when many animals give birth
• Dramatic predator activity following newborn prey

While animals may be more dispersed, sightings can still be excellent, particularly for photographers and returning safari travellers.

All year long, the majority of East African safari regions experience pleasant days, refreshing nights, and top-notch wildlife watching. However, safari planning must account for two distinct rainy seasons:

Long rains: April–May
Heavier rainfall; some remote camps close

Short rains: November–December
Brief showers; camps remain open; excellent value

The best safari conditions in Kenya and Tanzania are typically from January to March and June to October, when weather is drier and wildlife viewing is strongest.

Travelling during the short rains (November–December) can be an excellent option, offering fewer visitors, greener landscapes, and lower prices without significantly impacting game viewing.

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round movement, not a single event. Timing depends on location:

• Southern Serengeti (Tanzania): January–March
  Calving season and predator action
• Central & Northern Serengeti: June–September
• Masai Mara (Kenya): June–November
  River crossings are most likely

Travellers should plan carefully to be in the right region at the right time. Our detailed Wildebeest Migration guide explains this in depth.

While safari seasons vary, beach travel follows a different rhythm.

South Africa

• Best beach months: December–February
• Peak summer atmosphere, festive season energy, and warm ocean temperatures
• March–April offers fewer crowds and better value

Mozambique

• Best time: May–November
  Dry, comfortable temperatures and low humidity
• Avoid: January–February (cyclone season in southern Mozambique)

This period is also considered one of the best times to visit Africa for a honeymoon, combining safari and beach travel seamlessly.