Tired of the bustling crowds surrounding you while you are trying to capture the perfect wilderness shot?

Do you find yourself day dreaming of an authentic African experience that offers more bang for your buck? We think it’s time to rethink your travel plans and discover the countless benefits of visiting Africa during low season. 

5 Reasons Why You Should Experience Africa During Low Season: 

It’s Easy on Your Pocket

You may find that prices on accommodation, flights, tourist activities and experiences are quite low during during off peak season. Many establishments also offer a variety of discounts and special offers which are great for those seeking a more budget-friendly adventure. Even if you prefer the finer things in life, and are looking for a luxury escape, low season offers you the opportunity to maximize on destinations that are more expensive during high season.

You Get to Avoid the Crowds 

Sure, capturing that magnificent image of the Wildebeest Migration would be lifechanging, but what is often not shown in the background of those incredible pictures, is the amount of vehicles in the park all rushing to find the best seat. Not to mention, the traffic that awaits along your journey. If you are one who prefers to experience Africa’s beauty in solitude, low season is absolutely perfect for you! Not only can you enjoy a peaceful and intimate adventure but you will also be able to immerse yourself in the many cultures that Africa offers without feeling too overwhelmed.

Experience Unforgettable Wildlife Sightings

Dependent on the season, you will get to witness different animal behaviors as well as spot elusive species that are more active during low season. You get to enjoy a personalized experience because there will most likely be fewer tourists on the truck who share the same interests as you. During low season, there are also less queues at sightings and top attractions so you have the opportunity to stay at a specific encounter for as long as you’d like. Our enthusiastic Travel Consultant Minette says “You feel like you have the reserve to yourself and you can truly enjoy your safari”

Favorable Weather Conditions

Africa offers a diverse climate with ideal conditions for different experiences. South Africa’s dry winters are really great for incredible game viewing and the winelands are fairly priced during this time. Whilst East Africa’s coastal regions offer warm, sunny weather, perfect for a beach break or an epic safari. Uganda and Rwanda also have pleasant temperatures throughout the year making them quite suitable for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris, while the rainy season welcomes lush greenery.

Ingrid, who is not only an avid traveler but one of our knowledgeable Travel Consultants says her favorite reason for travelling in low season is the rain “I love the rainy season in all safari destinations across Southern and East Africa. There is just something very special when you see the thunder clouds gathering on the horizon and the warm rains a while later – the smell is incredible and the soft lighting makes photographic opportunities amazing!” 

⭐Tip for travel content creators: Imagine capturing incredible shots of rolling thunder clouds over the mountains and as the rain starts… the song you add to your reel is “I bless the rains down in Africa” ⭐

Embrace Local Communities

Africa’s tourism industry forms part of a vital source of income for many communities. On many tours, you will experience an abundance of cultures and get to understand the way that they live. By travelling in low season, your foreign currency goes further and directly impacts local businesses and vendors. This also allows you to contribute to a sustainable tourism model that benefits everyone. Remember that the idea is to leave only footprints, and take only memories. 

What do our Consultants say about travelling in low season? 

Celia – “Birding! Migratory birds return during the wetter rainy seasons is an incredible sight to be seen! So many different species and often in much greater numbers”

Michelle – “A quick tip… try the accommodated tours during these low seasons as camping during the raining season may not be for everyone! The rain really does bring out something really incredible, over a tour in Chobe River I got to witness the magnificence of the storms true beauty!” 

Bernelle – “The bush is beautiful and green! Wildlife is abundant as the predators get active when the weather isn’t hot and steamy.  The bush is alive with newborns!”

Jess – “In terms of overlanding, you will have more space in the truck as well as better locker options (no one wants to be stuck with the bottom locker that you can never get to!) and you are more likely to get a great discount on flights and tours too. On safari, more elusive animals are less shy and so you have a better chance of spotting something super special”

Low Season Comparison by Country