We are often asked when the best time to go on safari is. The answer very much depends on where you wish to go and what you are looking for.
In East Africa, primarily Kenya and Tanzania, there are two Rainy seasons. The main rains come between April and June and can be very heavy. It is generally harder to see the animals as the grass and vegetation grows high meaning the animals are hidden. Also, because of the abundance of water the animals do not congregate around water holes but disperse over the plains.
It tends to rain for a few hours a day rather than all day drizzle, so there is plenty of opportunity for game drives, even if the roads can become very muddy. There are 2 advantages of this time: lower prices and a lot less people, meaning that you often safari without seeing other vehicles, something that never happens during the peak seasons.
The small rains come in October and early November, but are much lighter and should not affect your itinerary. If you wish to continue to the beach after your safari then it is best to avoid these periods, as sunbathing is tricky under clouds!
In Southern Africa, being in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are the opposite to our own in the Northern Hemisphere. During July-August, the private reserves around Cape Town and windy and wet, sometimes even snowy! The north of the country – including the Kruger – remains warm all year, while the other safari countries – Namibia, Botswana and Zambia all have their own wet seasons. Click on them to see the guides.
