When is the best time to visit Africa?
If you’re planning a tour to Africa, knowing the best time to visit Africa can make all the difference in your experience. The continent’s vast and varied landscape offers unique adventures every month of the year.
Whether you’re dreaming of gorilla trekking in Uganda, exploring the deserts of Namibia, or embarking on a Big Five safari in South Africa, Africa promises endless excitement. Timing is everything, though—catching the peak of the wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara or enjoying Cape Town’s beaches requires careful planning. Thankfully, with such a diverse array of activities, Africa guarantees unforgettable adventures no matter when you visit.
To help you make the most of your journey, we’ve created a month-by-month guide to the continent’s most iconic attractions and the best times to explore them.
The best counties in Africa to visit month by month
1. January – February: The Serengeti & Kalahari
The start of the year comes with plenty of rain over popular safari destinations. But don’t let that put you off. Although wildlife viewing is generally best during the dry season, there are a few perks to Overlanding through Africa in January and February.
The Serengeti and Kalahari migrations along with the calving seasons are in full swing. This means plenty of predator-prey action, plus a few golden opportunities to sing The Circle of Life. The rainy season is also fab for traveling on a budget as this is the low season for many wildlife destinations.
Uganda & Cape Town
On the other hand, January is the peak of the dry season in Uganda’s northern parts. During this time of year, Murchison Falls National Park is primed for game viewing as the animals are easier to track. But if the 40ºC (104°F) temperatures are a bit too hot to handle then the higher altitude of Uganda’s jungles which offer a welcoming respite plus excellent gorilla trekking opportunities.
For some downtime, we recommend adding on a few extra days and ending your overland tour in Cape Town or Zanzibar.
Best travel time for:
Gorilla trekking
Wildebeest calving Season
Predator action safaris
Recommended countries to visit:
Best Time to Visit Kruger
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Tour Length 28 days Group Size Max 16 Starts & Ends Starts: Nairobi Ends: Dar es Salaam Countries Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania Overview This 28-day Nairobi to Zanzibar Overland Comfort Tour provides a comprehensive insight into East Africa’s finest attractions and gives you an insight into Southern Africa. From Kenya’s ‘Great Rift Valley’ to ‘Lake Nakuru’, we cross the equator for game viewing at Queen Elizabeth National Park, including chimpanzee trekking at Kyambura Gorge. Partake in a few adrenaline-pumping activities at Jinja – the source of the Nile. - Price Beat Guaranteed
- 10% early bird discount (6 months or more)
Price from
Original price was: R146,450.R131,805Current price is: R131,805.
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Tour Length 13 days Group Size Max 16 Starts & Ends Starts: Entebbe Ends: Entebbe Countries Uganda Overview Africa's tallest mountain range, the continent's largest lake, the world's longest river, the biggest living primates, and of course, the iconic Big Five - Uganda is home to colossal natural wonders. This 13-day expedition sees you hiking in misty forests to spot wild gorillas and the lesser-known sights of tree-climbing lions, exploring verdant waterways teeming with pods of hippo, and discovering a world apart as you encounter the region’s colourful cultures. 10% discount for departures in December 2024. For more information, please speak to your travel agent.
Price from
R50,100
2. March – April: All around Africa
March is a great time to travel to Africa. Not too hot and not too cold either. If you’re planning on a Southern Africa overland tour, this is a fantastic time to visit destinations such as Cape Town, the Winelands, the Garden Route, and the Eastern Cape.
On the East African front, safari season starts tapering off. Kenya and northern Tanzania will still have good game viewing in March, but by April some camps and lodges close due to the long rains. When it comes to gorilla trekking, Uganda’s rainy season begins in March and makes conditions muddy and tracks hard to manage.
By April, major safari destinations slow down. But, destinations such as Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique, and Seychelles start to open up at the beginning of the “Green Season”.
Best travel time for:
Adventure traveling
Snorkeling in Mozambique
Cape Town adventures
Recommended countries to visit:
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Tour Length 14 days Group Size Max 12 Starts & Ends Starts: Johannesburg Ends: Johannesburg Countries Mozambique, South Africa Overview This beach to bush safari ticks all the boxes of a dream African escape, including plenty of time spent on footprint-free shores and fantastic game viewing in the world-famous Kruger National Park. Leave the planning to the guides while you enjoy the undulating grasslands of the highveld, verdant mango and cashew nut plantations, and authentic local cuisine around blazing fireplaces. Get the best of both as you explore tropical waters while you snorkel, dive and fish and encounter the Big Five while exploring the African bush. This is how you travel Africa. Price from
R46,270
+ Local Payment 1600
3. May – June: Zimbabwe, Zambia & Kruger National Park
Travel to Africa in May and you’re bound to find good safari deals. It’s shoulder season in the southern hemisphere (between the end of the rainy season and the start of the dry one) so from now until October is an excellent time for a safari in South Africa.
At this time of year, destinations like Zimbabwe, Zambia, and the Greater Kruger Park are coming into the dry season and the animals are starting to congregate around the waterholes, making them easier to spot. The beginning of May is also a great time to visit Botswana’s Okavango Delta before the rush of peak season in late June.
In East Africa, the wildebeest migration will be heading through the western corridor of the Serengeti and will begin crossing the crocodile-infested Grumeti River on their journey back to the Masai Mara. River crossing season is the most nail-biting part of the journey and also the most popular – so booking in advance is a must! June also sees the return of gorilla trekking in Uganda and the opportunity to spot newborns.
Best travel time for:
Great migration river crossing
Gorilla trekking
Big Five safaris
Whale watching in South Africa
Okavango Delta
Recommended countries to visit:
Tanzania (Serengeti western corridor)
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Tour Length 20 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Cape Town Ends: Victoria Falls Countries South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe Overview Craving action and adventure? This 20 day expedition reads like a synopsis for the Amazing Race: scenic flights over the Okavango, white water rafting on the Zambezi, desert hikes, nights under a sprawling blanket of stars — and that’s just the start! We’ve also included wildlife safari drives in Etosha, Moremi Game Reserve and a relaxing sunset river cruise on the Chobe River to give you the best chance of experiencing the diversity of Southern Africa. Price from
Original price was: R86,950.R69,560Current price is: R69,560.
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Tour Length 13 days Group Size Max 16 Starts & Ends Starts: Entebbe Ends: Entebbe Countries Uganda Overview Africa's tallest mountain range, the continent's largest lake, the world's longest river, the biggest living primates, and of course, the iconic Big Five - Uganda is home to colossal natural wonders. This 13-day expedition sees you hiking in misty forests to spot wild gorillas and the lesser-known sights of tree-climbing lions, exploring verdant waterways teeming with pods of hippo, and discovering a world apart as you encounter the region’s colourful cultures. 10% discount for departures in December 2024. For more information, please speak to your travel agent.
Price from
R50,100
4. July – August: Kenya, Botswana & Nambia
This time of year offers up some of the very best wildlife spotting (If you don’t mind the crowds). Not only is the migration river crossing at its peak in the Masai Mara, but it’s also the best time to spot big cats in action in the central Serengeti. Those who are keen on gorilla trekking won’t be disappointed either as Uganda will be in peak season and combines well with a safari in Kenya!
Further South, the Western Cape beckons off-peak travellers. It may be too cold to swim but there is still much to do for ocean lovers. July is primed for epic whale-watching adventures along the coast from Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay. And, if you haven’t got your fill on predator action then be sure to visit False Bay for the Great White-Shark watching season. To top it off, the Garden Route comes alive with the Knysna Oyster Festival.
If your travel plans include visiting Botswana’s Okavango and the Namib desert then be sure to plan super early! The Delta will be in full flood during these two months and this is peak season for Namibia too, so availability may be limited.
In August, hoards of travelers will be in Kenya for the peak of the great migration. As an alternative, you could consider Overlanding in Southern Africa. The weather is mild and dry (except for Cape Town) giving way to excellent wildlife viewing in Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. Plus, it is the best time to see Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
Best travel time for:
Prime game-viewing across most of Africa.
Wildflowers in South Africa’s Namaqualand region (August and September only).
Wildebeest migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s northern Serengeti.
Whale Watching in Southern Africa
Recommended countries to visit:
Tanzania (Northern Serengeti)
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Tour Length 14 days Group Size Max 12 Starts & Ends Starts: Johannesburg Ends: Victoria Falls Countries South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe Overview This is your chance to relish every slice of Africa’s last great wilderness. Kick up dust on the sandveld of the Kalahari, glide along the Okavango Delta in a traditional mokoro, and count elephants big and small in Chobe National Park as you safari on land and water. End in Victoria Falls and find yourself hooked on the magic of Southern Africa. Price from
R64,900
+ Local Payment USD 300
5. September: Uganda & Rwanda
September is widely regarded as one of the two best months to travel to Africa. The dry season continues and temperatures start rising but wildlife viewing will be excellent. Since virtually every destination offers very high-quality safaris at this time, the hardest part will be deciding where to go.
In East Africa, the migration action is still fierce in the Masai Mara region and it’s a great time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda. For a bit of wildlife variety, add Tanzania’s Tarangire National Park to your itinerary for a glimpse of the region’s elephant migration.
Toward the south of Africa, Botswana’s most famous parks will be in their peak seasons for game viewing. This means that you might have to compete with the crowds in areas such as Okavango, Moremi, Chobe, and the Linyanti. But, the views make it worth the effort.
September is also a great time of year to be in South Africa. Toward the north of the country, the Kruger Park welcomes safari lovers with great weather and excellent wildlife viewing. It gets a bit cooler the further south you go but it’s not without its advantages. This is the peak season for whale watching in Hermanus as the Southern Right whales come into Walker Bay to calve. And, for the most jaw-dropping scenery make your way down to the Cederberg to see the fynbos in full bloom.
October: Tanzania
Generally speaking, October marks the end of the dry season in the east but there is still plenty to do while on an East Africa overland tour. Uganda’s second rainy season will be in full swing, so gorilla trekking is not advised. However, this is a great time of year to visit Murchison Falls or Kidepo.
While in Tanzania, you’ll find the temperature becomes much more pleasant as it drops. In the north, Tarangire elephant herds are at their largest, while there is awesome river crossing action in the Serengeti as the herds start their journey south.
Best travel time for:
Prime game-viewing across most of Africa.
Wildflowers in South Africa’s Namaqualand region (September).
Elephant migration in Tanzania.
Whale Watching in Southern Africa
Recommended countries to visit:
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Tour Length 42 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Cape Town Ends: Nairobi Countries South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya Overview Safari drives in the Serengeti? Check! A river Cruise in Chobe National Park? Check. Authentic camping experience? Big Check! We’ve left no stone unturned when putting together this legendary itinerary. All you need to do is kick back discover the stunning wilderness and vibrant cultures of eight countries across the continent. This is how you travel Africa. Price from
Original price was: R131,850.R105,480Current price is: R105,480.
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Tour Length 26 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Cape Town Ends: Johannesburg Countries South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe Overview When it comes to diversity, South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe are incredible - and the best way to take it in is on this adrenaline packed overland tour. We’ve handpicked the most breathtaking Southern African experiences and wrapped them into 26 days of pure, blood-pumping adventure. From canoeing on the Orange River, to climbing giant sand dunes, and capturing the big five (with your camera, of course) in the world famous Kruger National Park. This is how you travel Africa. Price from
R115,500
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Tour Length 16 days Group Size Max 12 Starts & Ends Starts: Johannesburg Ends: Johannesburg Countries Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa Overview 16 days, three countries, one epic journey. Your comfort overland safari is the perfect answer to Africa’s coveted call of the wild. Relish game watching with morning and afternoon game drives in search of the Big Five in the famous Kruger National Park, before continuing your journey through Zimbabwe and Botswana. With tons to explore and plenty of time to stretch you legs while white-water rafting, taking guided tours of the Zimbabwe Ruins, or getting horizontal while drifting down the waterways of the Okavango Delta. Price from
R56,135
+ Local Payment USD 300
November: Malawi, Kenya, South Africa
November is a tricky time of year to travel to Africa. It’s rainy in some places, dry in others. Hot in some places and cold in others. But, if you know where to go then it will be the best time to overland in Africa.
As the rain starts to fall in East Africa, so do the crowds and the cost of travel. So, if you don’t mind a bit of rain in the afternoons then November is a great time to explore Tanzania and Kenya. It’s also the last leg of the wildebeest migration as the herds leave the Masai Mara and return to the Serengeti.
November marks the start of the rainy season in Southern Africa and is officially the end of the peak season in Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Malawi. This means that it’s a fantastic time to travel on a budget but the chance of rain is significantly higher. It’s also a great time of year to see lesser known wildlife events such as Zambia’s fruit bat migration and Mozambique’s leatherback turtle nesting season.
To avoid the rain, make your way down to South Africa. Although there will be a few spring thunderstorms in the Kruger Park, this is a lovely time to enjoy an overland in the Cape. As the ocean water starts to warm up, November marks the last few whale spotting weeks in False Bay and Walker Bay. However, the tepid weather is perfect for tackling Cape Town’s famous hiking and mountain climbing routes.
Learn more about a trip along South Africa’s Garden Route HERE, a perfect route to travel this time of year.
December: Botswana’s Kalahari and Namibia’s desert coast
In December it gets hot across Africa but safari destinations across southern Africa will be getting plenty of rain. Because of this, water holes across the country open up and the animals disperse into smaller groups, making game viewing more difficult. However, Botswana’s Kalahari and Namibia’s desert coast are still worth visiting to catch a glimpse of zebra and elephant migrations and newborn seal pups can be seen bathing in the warm sun.
On the other hand, this is one of South Africa’s finest months for adventure travel, especially in the Cape and up the Garden Route. While it my not be the best time to go on a safari, it’s peak holiday season in the Cape, with plenty of outdoor events and beach time! From surfing to shark cage diving, wine tasting, and mountain biking, there is plenty to do for intrepid travelers.
While Tanzania and Kenya experience a bit of rain in December, these safari icons still offer great wildlife viewing. Although wildlife viewing may be a bit trickier in Kenya, Tanzania’s northern circuit is in full swing once again.
Best travel time for:
Turtle nesting and egg-laying.
Bat migration into Zambia.
Wildebeest migration travels south through the Serengeti.
Recommended countries to visit:
Tanzania (northern circuit)
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Tour Length 34 days Group Size Max 16 Starts & Ends Starts: Dar es Salaam Ends: Cape Town Countries Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa Overview In search of powdery beaches, with the backdrop of sailing wooden dhows, complete with electric blue waters overflowing with rainbow clouds of tropical fish - and that's just day one of your adventure and it only gets better from here. This paradise-inspired tour hits all the right spots, taking you from the peaceful island vibes of Zanzibar to the bustling Cape Town. Top it off with wildlife safaris in Chobe and wilderness excursions in Okavango. Ready? This is how you travel Africa. - Price Beat Guaranteed
- 10% early bird discount (6 months or more)
Price from
Original price was: R151,950.R136,755Current price is: R136,755.
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Tour Length 26 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Cape Town Ends: Johannesburg Countries South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe Overview When it comes to diversity, South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe are incredible - and the best way to take it in is on this adrenaline packed overland tour. We’ve handpicked the most breathtaking Southern African experiences and wrapped them into 26 days of pure, blood-pumping adventure. From canoeing on the Orange River, to climbing giant sand dunes, and capturing the big five (with your camera, of course) in the world famous Kruger National Park. This is how you travel Africa. Price from
R115,500
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Tour Length 14 days Group Size Max 12 Starts & Ends Starts: Johannesburg Ends: Johannesburg Countries Mozambique, South Africa Overview This beach to bush safari ticks all the boxes of a dream African escape, including plenty of time spent on footprint-free shores and fantastic game viewing in the world-famous Kruger National Park. Leave the planning to the guides while you enjoy the undulating grasslands of the highveld, verdant mango and cashew nut plantations, and authentic local cuisine around blazing fireplaces. Get the best of both as you explore tropical waters while you snorkel, dive and fish and encounter the Big Five while exploring the African bush. This is how you travel Africa. Price from
R46,270
+ Local Payment 1600
Whether you’re captivated by the dramatic wildebeest migration, enchanted by the unique wildlife encounters, or simply looking to soak up the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes, Africa offers something unforgettable all year round. By planning your trip around the optimal times for your chosen activities, you can ensure a truly memorable adventure. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of this extraordinary continent—no matter when you go, Africa is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
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