When & Where to Go for the Ultimate Safari Experience 

An African safari is a bucket-list adventure, but knowing the best month for an African safari can make all the difference. Africa’s diverse landscapes, seasonal wildlife movements, and varied climates mean that timing is crucial. Whether you’re hoping to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, track mountain gorillas in Uganda, or experience an exclusive luxury safari in Botswana, choosing the right month is key. In this guide, we’ll break down the best destinations, when to visit, cost considerations, and essential tips for planning an unforgettable safari. 

How to Decide Where to Go on an African Safari 

Africa offers an incredible variety of safari experiences, so choosing the right destination depends on several factors: 

• Wildlife priorities: Are you dreaming of seeing the Big Five, witnessing the Great Migration, or spotting rare species like leopards or wild dogs? 

• Budget: Some destinations, like South Africa, offer more affordable safari options, while others, such as Botswana and Tanzania, tend to be more expensive. 

• Weather preferences: Dry season safaris often offer better wildlife viewing, but wet season safaris come with lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. 

• Crowds and accessibility: Popular parks like the Maasai Mara and Serengeti can get crowded during peak season, while lesser-known reserves offer quieter, more intimate experiences. 

• Activities: Would you prefer traditional game drives, walking safaris, night safaris, or water-based safaris in the Okavango Delta? 

Best Safari Destinations by Region 

Region	Best For	Top National Parks & Reserves
East Africa	The Great Migration, Big Five, Scenic Landscapes	Serengeti (Tanzania), Maasai Mara (Kenya), Ngorongoro Crater
Southern Africa	Big Five, luxury safaris, diverse landscapes, self-drive safaris	Kruger (South Africa), Okavango Delta (Botswana), Victoria Falls
Central Africa	Gorilla trekking, rainforest adventures, unique species	Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
West Africa	Unique wildlife, cultural experiences, off-the-beaten-path safaris	Mole National Park (Ghana), Pendjari National Park (Benin)

Best Month for African Safari by Destination 

Serengeti & Maasai Mara (Tanzania & Kenya) – Great Migration 

• Best Months: July to October (wildebeest crossing the Mara River) 

• Wet Season: March to May (lush landscapes, fewer crowds, but muddy roads) 

• Cost Considerations: High prices during migration; lower costs in the wet season. 

• Weather: Dry season (cool, less rain, better wildlife visibility). The wet season can bring afternoon thunderstorms. 

Kruger National Park (South Africa) – Big Five & Self-Drive Safaris 

• Best Months: May to September (dry season – animals gather around water sources, making sightings easier) 

• Wet Season: October to April (lush landscapes, great for birdwatching, fewer tourists) 

• Cost Considerations: Affordable year-round, but luxury lodges increase prices in peak months. 

• Weather: Warm in dry season, hot and humid in the wet season. 

Okavango Delta (Botswana) – Water & Land Safaris 

• Best Months: June to October (Delta is flooded, best for mokoro boat safaris) 

• Wet Season: November to March (lush landscapes, baby animals, fewer tourists) 

• Cost Considerations: One of Africa’s most expensive safari destinations. Luxury lodges can cost over £1,600 per night. 

• Weather: Cool nights in dry season, hot and humid in wet season. 

Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe) – Scenic Safaris & Adventure 

• Best Months: May to September (high water levels, best for photography) 

• Wet Season: November to April (less mist, better visibility of the falls) 

• Cost Considerations: Prices rise during peak season. White-water rafting is best in the low-water season (Aug-Jan). 

• Weather: Dry season is cooler; wet season can be very hot. 

Bwindi & Volcanoes National Park (Uganda & Rwanda) – Gorilla Trekking 

• Best Months: June to September, December to February (dry season, best for trekking) 

• Wet Season: March to May, October to November (fewer tourists, cheaper permits) 

• Cost Considerations: Gorilla trekking permits range from £550 to £1,200 per person. 

• Weather: Rainforest climate – expect some rain year-round. Trekking can be challenging in the wet season. 

Best Safari Experiences: How to Elevate Your Safari 

For an unforgettable safari, consider adding these unique experiences: 

• Hot Air Balloon Safari: Experience the Serengeti or Maasai Mara from above at sunrise. Book with: Balloon Safaris Ltd 

• Bush Breakfast: Enjoy a luxury breakfast in the wild after a morning game drive. Available at: Many luxury lodges in Kenya, Tanzania, and Botswana. 

• Walking Safaris: Get up close with wildlife on a guided bush walk in Zambia or South Africa. Recommended operators: Robin Pope Safaris 

• Night Game Drives: See nocturnal predators in action in South Luangwa, Kruger, and Botswana. 

• Water Safaris: Canoe through the Okavango Delta in a traditional mokoro. Book with: Wilderness Safaris 

• Photographic Safaris: Travel with professional photographers for the best wildlife shots. Available at: MalaMala Game Reserve, Sabi Sands, and more. 

Packing List for an African Safari 

✔️ Neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors that scare animals) 
✔️ Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts & pants (for sun & insect protection) 
✔️ Sturdy hiking boots (for trekking safaris) 
✔️ Sunhat & sunglasses 
✔️ Binoculars (for better wildlife viewing) 
✔️ Camera with zoom lens 
✔️ Reusable water bottle 
✔️ Insect repellent & sunscreen 
✔️ Rain jacket (especially in wet season destinations) 
✔️ Travel adapters & power bank 
✔️ Lightweight backpack for game drives 
✔️ Prescription medications & basic first-aid kit 
✔️ Travel insurance (highly recommended for medical evacuation) 

Final Thoughts: The Best Month for African Safari 

The best month for an African safari depends on your priorities. If you want the Great Migration, go between July and October. For Big Five spotting, Southern Africa’s dry season (May–September) is ideal. For gorilla trekking, aim for Uganda or Rwanda in the dry season (June–September, December–February). 

Planning ahead is key – book early for peak season, pack wisely, and choose the right destination for your dream safari. Whether you’re looking for a budget adventure or a luxury escape, Africa has a safari experience to suit every traveller. 

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