The Best Time to Safari in Africa: A Month-by-Month Breakdown
There’s something magical about an African safari—a journey into the wild, where every morning brings a new show and every corner of the savanna has a story to tell. But as any seasoned traveller will tell you, timing is everything. When planning your safari, understanding Africa’s seasons is key.
From the green plains of East Africa to the dry, predator rich landscapes of the south, the best time to safari in Africa depends on what you want to see, experience and yes, how much you want to spend.
Here’s the when and where. Now plan your safari. Go
January
January might not be the first month that comes to mind when you think of a safari — it’s the height of the rainy season in much of Africa. But for those in the know, this is the season of plenty, beauty and opportunity. The rains transform the usually dry plains into lush, green landscapes that provide a stunning backdrop for photography. Wildlife thrives, and newborn animals make their first unsteady steps into the world.
For birders, January is a dream. Migratory species descend on Southern Africa, creating a kaleidoscope of color and sound. The Okavango Delta is in full flood and is the ultimate place to see rare birds against the greenest of backdrops.
Meanwhile, Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park teems with life. Expect to see impala, zebras, and even the occasional big cat keeping a watchful eye.
It’s also low season in terms of tourism—a mid-range safari could run anywhere from $150 to $300 a day.
Read Next: 15 Of The Best National Parks In Southern Africa
February
February is a special time in the Serengeti National Park. It’s calving season, when thousands of wildebeest give birth at the same time. The plains fill with baby animals taking their first steps. But this is far from a peaceful time. Predators like lions and cheetahs are always nearby, hunting the vulnerable young.
“The Serengeti in February is raw and emotional,” says a local guide. “You see both new life and the struggle to survive.”
Another great spot to visit is the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. This area is packed with wildlife and offers incredible views of its volcanic walls. It’s an unforgettable place to explore.
February safaris in East Africa cost more, with daily rates from $400 to $800 depending on the experience you choose.
March
March is a transitional month in Africa. The long rains begin to approach East Africa, and the calving season in the Serengeti comes to a close.
For photographers, it’s a perfect time. The landscapes are lush and green, and there are fewer tourists, making the experience feel private.
In Kenya’s Masai Mara, smaller crowds mean you can explore the savannas at your own pace. Wildlife sightings are still great, and the dramatic skies make for stunning photos!
Tarangire National Park in Tanzania is where elephants stand out against the vibrant green landscape. It’s a peaceful time to visit, and safari prices are lower, with packages starting at $200 to $400 per day.
Read Next: The Top 10 National Parks in Kenya
April
April brings rain to much of Africa – and a lot of it. While some might shy away from this, for others there’s no better time to visit. The wet season makes East Africa’s forests lush and green, creating the perfect setting for gorilla trekking.
Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park, in Rwanda are especially beautiful in April. The rain-soaked trees and cooler weather make trekking easier. Seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is worth every step.
Fewer visitors mean lower prices for lodging and tours. Gorilla trekking permits are fixed at $700 in Uganda and $1,500 in Rwanda, but discounts on accommodations make April a great choice for budget travelers.
May
May signals a shift in Southern Africa. The rainy season ends, and the land starts to shift from lush & green to dry. This is when wildlife viewing enters it’s prime, especially in Kruger National Park and Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park.
As water sources shrink, animals gather at rivers, lakes, and waterholes. You’ll see elephants and zebras drinking together while predators wait nearby for their chance.
May stands out because it offers great conditions at lower costs. Many lodges have shoulder-season rates, with safaris costing $200 to $400 per day.
Fewer tourists mean less competition for prime spots, making it a relaxed and rewarding time to visit.
June
In June, the dry season takes hold, and safari conditions hit their peak. Water becomes scarce, concentrating animals near remaining sources. Whether you’re watching East Africa’s Great Migration or exploring Southern Africa’s wetlands, this is one of the best times for a safari.
In the Serengeti, the Great Migration is in full swing. Millions of wildebeest and zebra move in massive herds, creating an unforgettable scene on the dry plains.
In June, Botswana’s Okavango Delta wetlands are at their peak. Wildlife thrives here, and visitors can experience safaris in a unique way. Traditional game drives are fantastic, while Mokoro (canoe) trips through the waterways give you a closer view of animals in their natural habitat.
Safari costs rise in June as demand increases. Mid-range trips cost $400 to $800 per day, with luxury options higher. Booking early is essential to secure the best lodges and experiences.
July
July is the peak of safari season in Africa. In East Africa, the Great Migration reaches one of its most dramatic stages. Millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River to enter Kenya’s Masai Mara. Crocodiles wait in the water, while lions and cheetah prowl the riverbanks, making this a thrilling and tense spectacle.
Southern Africa also stands out in July. In South Luangwa and Hwange National Park, the dry season brings animals to waterholes, making them easier to spot. Cooler weather also makes walking safaris more enjoyable.
July is a busy time, and prices are high. Safaris range from $500 to $1,000 per day, depending on the level of luxury. Booking early is crucial to secure a spot at popular lodges.
August
The Great Migration is still underway in the Masai Mara, with more river crossings and exceptional predator activity. The winter months have completely dried out the foliage, making it easy to spot big cats, elephants, and other iconic animals.
In Southern Africa, Namibia’s Etosha National Park shines. With its stark, arid terrain and massive salt pans, Etosha offers a different kind of safari experience. The scarcity of water means animals congregate at the park’s famous waterholes, creating a theater of wildlife activity. Visitors often spot large herds of elephants, rhinos, and lions in close proximity.
August also offers perfect weather. Clear skies, warm days, and cool nights are ideal for game drives, walking safaris, and night safaris, where nocturnal animals take the spotlight. However, this is still peak season, and costs can exceed $1,000 per day for luxury packages.
September
September is often called the best time to safari in Africa. Wildlife viewing remains excellent, temperatures are more pleasant, and costs start to drop slightly compared to the winter months.
In Lower Zambezi National Park, a mix of game drives and water safaris adds variety. Canoeing on the Zambezi River alongside elephants and hippos is an unforgettable experience. Walking safaris are another draw, with expert guides leading guests through the bush to track wildlife on foot.
In Botswana’s Chobe National Park, elephants steal the show. The park hosts some of Africa’s largest herds, which gather in huge numbers along the Chobe River. Photographers love September’s golden light and clear skies, perfect for capturing stunning wildlife shots.
Costs remain high but are more reasonable than earlier months. Expect to pay $400 to $800 per day for mid-range safaris, with luxury options still available at higher prices.
October
October marks the end of the dry season, making it one of the best times to see wildlife. With water sources running low, animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to spot. However, rising temperatures can make the experience challenging for some travelers.
Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe, is a top choice for October. Known for walking safaris and canoe trips on the Zambezi River, it offers close encounters with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the return of vibrant flocks as the seasons change.
Kruger National Park is another highlight. The dry terrain allows for clear views, and predators like lions and leopards are more active as they hunt near water sources.
Safari costs are still high but start to drop toward the end of the month. Mid-range trips range from $300 to $600 per day, while luxury lodges may cost $800 or more.
November
November is a time of change. The short rains start in East Africa, and Southern Africa enters its green season. This transition brings fresh scenery, fewer crowds, and better value.
In the Serengeti, the wildebeest migration heads south. The rains revive the plains, turning them green and vibrant. Newborn animals start appearing, adding to the excitement.
In Hwange National Park, wildlife spreads out from waterholes as the rains arrive. The lush landscapes make for stunning photos, and migratory birds add bright colors and songs to the scenery.
November safaris are more affordable, with mid-range trips costing $200 to $400 per day. Luxury experiences are also cheaper than during peak season, making it a budget-friendly time to visit.
December
December is a mix of green landscapes in East Africa and rainy-season beauty in Southern Africa. It’s also a popular time for festive safari trips.
Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater is a must-see in December. Its dense wildlife and dramatic scenery make it perfect for guaranteed sightings. Imagine spending Christmas morning watching lions or spotting a black rhino grazing nearby.
The Masai Mara’s Great Migration is over, but the resident wildlife remains active. With fewer tourists, December offers a quieter, more personal safari experience.
Southern Africa’s rainy season transforms the landscape into a lush paradise. Wildlife is more spread out, but birdwatching is exceptional. Many lodges embrace the holiday season with special meals and celebrations.
Costs in December vary. Early in the month, prices are lower, but they rise closer to Christmas and New Year. Mid-range safaris cost $300 to $500 per day, while luxury trips can exceed $800.
Africa offers incredible safari experiences throughout the year. Whether you want to witness the drama of the Great Migration, explore lush green forests, or enjoy budget-friendly adventures, there’s a perfect time to visit.
No matter when you go, an African safari is always unforgettable. The wilderness, wildlife, and landscapes create moments that will stay with you forever.
So, the best time to safari in Africa? It’s whenever you’re ready to explore nature’s grandest stage.