A Breakdown Of The Safari Seasons For Southern And Eastern Africa

Best Time to Go on Safari: Southern & Eastern Africa

Safaris are an incredible way to experience Africa’s diverse landscapes and wildlife, but when you go can greatly impact your adventure.

Southern Africa (Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe): For Southern Africa, the dry season (April to October) is prime time. It’s cooler, and animals gather around dwindling water sources, making them easier to spot. The dry season is also malaria-free in some areas. By contrast, the green season (November to March) sees lush landscapes and newborn animals, offering incredible birdwatching opportunities and fewer crowds. However, expect rain and sometimes tricky road conditions in remote areas.

Eastern Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda): In Eastern Africa, the dry months of June to October are best for the iconic Great Migration, where herds of wildebeest and zebras cross the plains of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara. In Uganda and Rwanda, this is also a prime time for gorilla trekking, as the drier conditions make forest hikes more manageable. The rainy seasons (March to May and November) can present challenges like muddy trails, but they also bring the lush beauty of green vegetation and fewer tourists.

Month-by-Month Breakdown:

• January–March: A great time for birdwatching across both regions, with migratory species in abundance. The green landscapes make for stunning photography, and it’s baby season for many animals.
• April–June: Southern Africa’s dry season begins, offering cooler temperatures and superb wildlife viewing. In Eastern Africa, the rains slow, and safari lodges offer competitive rates.
• July–September: Arguably the best period for safaris in both regions. In Southern Africa, the animals are concentrated around waterholes, while in East Africa, it’s the peak of the Great Migration and gorilla trekking.
• October–December: As the rains begin in Southern Africa, it’s a wonderful time for a quieter, more intimate safari. East Africa also transitions into a lush, green landscape.

Both regions have their own unique advantages, so whether you’re after thrilling game drives in the Serengeti, a river cruise in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, or watching Victoria Falls in full flow, there’s always a perfect safari waiting for you. The key is to match your interests—whether it’s witnessing the dramatic wildebeest migration, photographing vibrant green scenery, or tracking predators—with the right season.