The best time to visit Africa for a safari varies on your chosen destination and unique wildlife you want to see. Generally, the dry seasons are considered the prime time for safaris, as the animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. These dry seasons typically occur during the winter months in Southern Africa (May to September) and the summer months in East Africa (June to October).

If witnessing the great Wildebeest migration first hand is high on your bucket list, this typically occurs between July and October, as the wildebeest moves from the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya.
Heading on safari from June to October, known as the ‘high season’, has both pros and cons. A good time to spot wildlife, vegetation is less dense so the wildlife can be seen near water sources or openly grazing on the plains. However, this time of travel comes with more crowds and higher prices.

Travelling in the rainy or ‘green’ seasons can offer unique experiences such as the birthing season for many animals, the arrival of migratory bird species and stunning, dramatic skies and weather – perfect for a photography safari. Usually quieter during this time, you really feel like you have the whole place to yourself, the lodges and camps offer cheaper rates over this quieter season but wildlife can be harder to spot due to dense vegetation.

In East Africa, there are two rainy seasons – the ‘long rains’ typically occur from March to May. The ‘short rains’, which happen from October to December, usually are less intense and shorter in duration compared to the long rains, so no need for a raincoat or wellies!
In Ethiopia, you can see the Gelada monkeys in the Simien Mountains National Park all year round. Similarly, in the renowned Bale Mountains National Park, you can see the endangered Ethiopian Wolf, the Mountain Nyala, and the Bale Mountain Vervet monkey throughout the year.

As much as wildlife can be the main attraction, many parts of Africa see fantastic bird migrations, especially across East Africa, the birds migrate to warmer climes as the European winter sets in, from November to April. Examples of these species can be shrikes, cuckoos & falcons found in most wilderness areas.
All in all, going on safari at any time promises an unforgettable experience, each season offering its own unique memories and bucket-list adventures. There truly is something for everyone and we can help you create your bucket list Africa safari!
