“You bring the camera. The wild brings the plot twist”
Planning a safari? Don’t just pick a country. Pick your month wisely, because the wild has a whole different mood throughout the year.
One day it is golden and dry, the next it is fresh and green; rivers are filled with life, the animals are gathered around the water. The right timing is what can make a good safari great. Each season in Africa has its own set of magical elements: elephant-filled waterways in Southern Africa, dramatic animals crossing the road in East Africa.
Therefore, the best time to go on safari is different for each place. The best time to visit depends on what you want to experience, where you want to go, how you feel about weather, crowds and scenery, and your budget.
This month-by-month guide will assist you in visualizing the entire journey and make the best safari window selection.
Why Safari Timing Matters
Safari seasons are shaped by rainfall, temperature, animal behaviour and water availability.
Animals are easier to see during dry months when the vegetation is lower and wildlife flock to water sources like rivers, lakes and water holes. These months are great for those of you interested in classic game viewing.
The atmosphere can feel completely different during the rainy season. Landscapes turn green, new animals are born in the landscape, and migratory birds come to the landscape. Photography can be amazing also, with awesome skies and new hues throughout the bush.
There’s another side of timing that people don’t think about during the first-time visit. The seasons in Africa vary from place to place. A month that works well for Kenya may offer a very different safari experience in Botswana. You might find that a month fabulous in Kenya is fabulous in Botswana too, but not necessarily a different one.
This is why it is essential to first decide on your safari destination and experience you are looking for, before deciding when to go on safari.
Safari by Month at a Glance
Before we explore every month, here is a quick guide to help you find your ideal season.
| Month | What to Expect | Best For |
| January | Green landscapes, calving season in parts of Tanzania | Newborn wildlife, photography |
| February | Excellent Tanzania wildlife viewing | Calving, predators, birdlife |
| March | Green scenery, seasonal rains in some areas | Quiet safaris, photography |
| April | Wetter in many destinations | Lower prices, fewer crowds |
| May | Green landscapes and changing seasons | Value, peaceful game viewing |
| June | Dry season begins in many regions | Wildlife, walking safaris |
| July | Excellent game viewing across several regions | Migration, dry-season safaris |
| August | Peak wildlife season in many destinations | Migration, waterhole viewing |
| September | Dry conditions and strong wildlife activity | Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania |
| October | Hotter in some areas but wildlife remains active | Waterholes, elephants |
| November | Seasonal rains and fresh greenery | Birding, photography |
| December | Festive season and summer rains in parts of Africa | Green scenery, family holidays |
Remember that these are broad patterns rather than strict rules. Africa is enormous, and weather can vary from one park to another.
January Brings New Life
Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy exciting times in January, especially in northern Tanzania.
The short rains might have given the plains a new glint of greenery. During this time, it may also be the time of the year when the animals calve in the Serengeti ecosystem. For many travellers, seeing young animals take their first unsteady steps can become one of the most memorable safari moments.
There are also vulnerable young animals providing opportunities for predators, such as lions, cheetahs and others.
January can also offer beautiful light and a lush natural backdrop for photographers. The greener months of the year can be particularly rewarding with Birdlife.
For those who are looking for a less busy experience and prefer to experience Africa when it’s abundant and thriving, January is a good option.
February Is a Wildlife Dream
February is an exciting month in Tanzania!
It can be at the center of the calving season where thousands of young wildebeest can be born throughout the Serengeti ecosystem. It’s intense, but there’s more to it than numbers. The little things count as well — a mother closely following her calf, a curious zebra foal and predators lurking in the background.
February can also be an appealing month for photographers as the landscape is greener.
If young animal spotting is on the agenda then February can’t be ignored for travellers who opt for the best time for safari.
March Offers Green Beauty
There are some safari destinations where March is a very pleasant time.
Seasonal rain may bring dramatic skies, vibrant vegetation and fewer visitors. In certain areas, roads can get tricky, making it important to have a well-thought-out path.
The reward is a quieter, atmospheric safari experience. The air is filled with the scent of fresh earth, movement abounds in the bush and Africa feels newly washed.
March is a favourite month for visitors who enjoy the scenery and photography over traditional dry season game viewing.
April is for the quiet adventurer.
April is a particularly rainy time in East Africa in some areas.
This doesn’t necessarily mean a bad month for safari. Indeed, it might be a great choice for travellers who value more tranquil parks and possibly better value travel.
Rain does not necessarily mean constant downpours. However, in many locations, showers may be brief and then clear.
The landscape can be fantastic, and fewer cars can make for a more relaxed days at the wild animals.
If you want to avoid the crowds during peak season, but are not looking for a certain wildlife event, April may surprise you.
May Starts a New Chapter
In some areas of the safari season, May is a month of transition to drier weather.
The greener landscape and quieter environment are still beautiful. Certain camps and lodges may be able to offer more alluring rates during periods of less travel.
Southern Africa can also become increasingly interesting as the dry season approaches.
Perfect for those travellers seeking a mix of scenery, wildlife and value. It may not be a July or August, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
June is a Classic Safari Month
Many safaris destinations start their most enjoyable dry season in June.
In several parks, water is becoming scarce, vegetation is beginning to diminish and animals are becoming more visible. The days are generally fine, but in certain places, it can be surprisingly cold during the morning and evening hours.
This is a fantastic time of year for wildlife safaris in Botswana, Zambia and some areas of Zimbabwe.
June may also be a great month for walking safaris, particularly in cooler climates and in dry weather when walking isn’t as uncomfortable.
If you’re thinking of travelling to Africa for the best time to go on safari, then June is a must.
July brings big safaris, energy!
July is one of the most popular months to go on safari in Africa — and it is not for nothing.
The Great Migration is roaming in the extended Serengeti-Mara region in Kenya and Tanzania. Exact dates and locations are dependent upon the year, and a responsible itinerary always should not guarantee sightings on any specific date.
Animals can be easier to see in the dry landscape and water sources become more significant.
Other destinations like Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa are also good in July.
The trade-off is higher demand. Lodges and camps may be booked up months in advance, particularly during busy times, and prices may increase.
August Is Prime Time for Wildlife
August is another highlight month for safaris.
By August, the dry season is well established in many safari regions allowing for good game viewing. The Mara can be a particularly busy place in Kenya as visitors flock to see the spectacular river crossings.
But migration is not a show. Animals follow the rain, the grass and their senses. The best way is to have fun with the whole system, not make a trip around one photograph.
Botswana may also be wonderful in August, when animals converge at lasting watering places.
If wildlife is the top priority then August is the classic ‘when I should go on safari’ for many travellers.
September Has a Wild Edge
September brings on another dry season treat.
Migration activity can still be good in Kenya and northern Tanzania, and good opportunities can be found in Southern Africa around rivers and waterholes.
For those who appreciate wildlife, especially elephants and water-based activities, Botswana is a wonderful destination. In this time of year, Chobe and the Okavango region can provide experiences that are never forgotten.
There could be a gradual easing in crowds, depending on the destination, from the peak of August.
September can be an ideal month for safari for those looking for a combination of wildlife, weather and ambiance.
October means wildlife at the water
October may be hot in some of the Southern African destinations.
However, a benefit to the heat is that water becomes scarcer.
Animals may move around more near rivers, springs and waterholes. It can provide excellent viewing for the elephant and other animals that require frequent water, as well as a wonderful contrast to the dry season.
Photographs frequently have a “classic” African aesthetic, and the scenery is frequently dry and golden.
It is important to do an early morning game drive, especially in the warmer months. The bush is typically most active in the cooler times of the day.
November Brings the Green Season
Many places experience seasonal rains during November.
Dusty lands can turn into a different place in an instant with the first storms. Grass starts to grow again, trees start to turn colour again and the migratory birds start to be more noticeable.
While the experience of seeing wild animals is not always easy, wildlife viewing can still be rewarding, depending on the country and park.
This season is great for photographers as the skies are filled with dramatic clouds and there is abundant greenery to produce a whole different story.
So too can November be a great time for people looking for an alternative to the image of the dry continent.
December Ends the Year Beautifully
The month of December can be a great time to travel and to be with family.
Some areas experience their summer or green season, others are relatively dry. For instance, December is part of the summer holiday season in South Africa and can be a hectic time for some popular destinations.
At other times of the year, green landscapes and birdlife flourish elsewhere due to seasonal rains.
For families, December can work well when combined with a safari and other South African experiences, although popular areas can be busy during the festive period.
While picking the month is crucial, so is selecting the right lodge and style of safari for a family trip. If you are travelling with family for the first time, we have a First Time Safari Guide that can assist you with all aspects of your trip from game drives to packing.
The Best Safari Months by Region
While it is helpful to have a month-by-month calendar, regional planning provides a much better overview.
East Africa
Kenya and Tanzania are renowned for their unparalleled safaris.
The summer months from July to October are usually a good time to travel as animals are moving, though the animals’ movements are unpredictable. Specially in Tanzania, January to March can be eventful for calving as well as predator activity.
(Make sure to check official guidelines such as Tanzania travel advice – GOV.UK before finalizing your itinerary.)
For extra details on this area see our East Africa Safari Guide to help you compare destinations and experiences.
Southern Africa
Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa are some of the most diverse safari destinations in the continent.
Many game-viewing destinations in Southern Africa are preferred for their dry season (June to October). It can become particularly interesting in water based areas like the Okavango Delta, where animals flock to the water to drink.
There’s added flexibility in South Africa, with safaris available to be paired with cities, coastlines and wine regions, as well as family-friendly experiences.
If you are unsure about which park or country to choose, our Southern Africa Safari Guide will help you.
Therefore, What is the best time to go on Safari?
So, the truth of the matter is the best time to go on safari is determined by your safari dream.
Looking for baby animals?
Think of January, February and March in some parts of Tanzania.
Dreaming of migration?
Think of July-October but keep in mind that movements of wildlife are not guaranteed.
Enjoy traditional dry season safaris?
It’s a good time to travel from June to October.
Like green space and less people?
Rainy times or shoulder seasons might be appropriate.
Looking for better value?
If you’re willing to deal with the change of seasons, April and May and portions of November can be great months to travel.
No one is the ultimate winner. Your ideal month is the one that is most like what you would like.
Choosing Your Ideal Safari Month
Use the following five questions to help you decide before making a booking.
What animals do I want to see?
If you want to see elephants, gorillas, predators or newborn animals, your destination and travel dates should be chosen accordingly.
How important is weather?
Some tourists would prefer dry and sunny weather. Others welcome the rain with open arms for green landscapes and soothing parks.
Do I mind crowds?
Famous sightings can attract more vehicles in the peak months. Some shoulder seasons can provide a more tranquil environment.
What is my budget?
The safari prices are subject to change during the season. Peak travel periods can be more expensive whilst quieter months can offer more value for money.
How flexible am I?
One of the best things you could have is flexibility. For those with the time, you might be able to find a better mix of weather, wildlife and price over several months.
If you’re going on your first safari, you should take some time to grasp the nuts and bolts side of things as well. Whether you’re just starting to think about a safari or you’re getting ready for your first game drive with us, our [First Time Safari Guide] will have you covered.
Safari Seasons Are About More Than Weather
One of my favourite aspects to planning a safari is the seasons don’t just drastically alter the weather. They alter the character of the land.
Dry season Africa is sharp, open and dramatic. On these rare occasions, animals come to drink valuable water. Behind a safari car, there is a rising dust. Golden grass soaks up the late afternoon sun.
It’s a different story for green-season Africa. The sounds of rain can be heard as the rain drops on the roof of the lodge. The plains are covered by fresh grass. Baby animals appear, birds become more noticeable and storm clouds build over the horizon.
They are both equal experiences. They’re just different.
That is why experienced planning should never focus only on a list of “best months”. The real question is what kind of Africa you want to meet.
Plan around the experience you want
A safari experience should be personal.
Maybe you picture yourself sitting quietly near a waterhole as a family of elephants approaches. Perhaps you dream of heading out into the bush at first light, watching birds take flight or spotting a leopard in the soft evening glow. You might want to catch a show of migrating birds, a picture of a leopard in soft evening light or simply enjoy bird song in the early morning miles away from the hustle and bustle.
Whether it’s lively or still, your timing should be based on your picture.
If you want to know more about the countries, the wildlife, planning tips and types of safari, check out our Ultimate African Safari Holidays Guide.
And don’t forget, nature operates on its own time. Precipitation may come early. Migration might occur earlier and/or later. Animals may give you a shock. In fact, that ambiguity is not something to worry about — it is part of magic.
Final Thoughts
The ideal safari month may not be the one that everyone else suggests!
It is the month that best matches the experience you have been looking for.
January is a time for new beginnings. The plains can be a lot of fun in February. April can be an adventurous and tranquil month. June can offer the opportunity for classic dry season viewing. July and August can bring unforgettable migration experiences. September and October can bring memorable wildlife encounters around waterholes. November and December can be the freshest times in Africa.
Therefore, before you just look for the best time for safari you should consider your animals, your location, your budget and optimum pace.
Then, select your season – pack your curiosity – then leave some room for the unexpected, complete with world holiday vibes.
The best safari memories are often the ones that you never expected.
Sometimes, the greatest moment will just happen.
FAQ
A: January and February are best, as Tanzania’s Serengeti is a favorite for calving.
A: July to October, but actual wildlife movements will depend solely on rains.
A: Yes, months like April and May offer lush green scenery, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
A: June to October when animals are congregation around rivers and waterholes.
A: September and October—when dry weather compels animals to visit permanent water sources.
Source
E- book:
- https://ebooks.vibesgroupuk.com/books/zpxr/
- https://www.worldholidayvibes.com/holiday-travel-guide-ebook
Youtube
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YavMmHK0XUI
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0X72kPJ4XTU&list=PLNUm9YypsEQCLTnmAoQijeNXfxSgKZFaB
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F9NWbShnrU
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-67Ujy_ga4
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzkT8hf0EC8
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZE2ipDg7LQ
Facebook:
- https://www.facebook.com/reel/2022445845326016
- https://www.facebook.com/reel/1507201421153719
- https://www.facebook.com/reel/1532669025175724
- https://www.facebook.com/reel/4159963504228590
useful links:
- https://www.worldholidayvibes.com/destinations/africa
- https://www.worldholidayvibes.com/destinations/africa/madagascar
- https://www.worldholidayvibes.com/holiday-deals/madagascar-northern-highlights-madagascar-whv2308
- https://www.worldholidayvibes.com/holiday-deals/escape-to-madagascar-your-wild-paradise-madagascar-whv3198
