Safari Holidays to South Africa and Namibia for independent travellers.

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When to Go on Safari

Advice for visitors planning a safari in Southern Africa

Seasons differ vastly in the African bush, but no one season can be rated above another, for each has its own unique appeal.

Spring and Autumn

Spring (September) and autumn (April) are very short seasons, and usually provide mild weather conditions and subtle changes in vegetation.

Winter

During the cooler, drier winter months (May to August), water is scarcer so animals are more reliant on waterholes or rivers, which means greater game viewing opportunities around these areas.

Although the vegetation around these areas remains lush, the grass elsewhere becomes much drier and shorter, making it easier to spot wildlife.

Summer

Lion cub - Sabi Sand In the hot, wetter months of summer (October to March), the vegetation is wonderfully green and lush, but this can make game viewing more difficult.

Water is also more accessible, so the animals are able to roam further away from waterholes and are more widely dispersed.

Because of the intense midday heat, many animals will shelter in the shade of trees or bushes, so these are always good areas to look out for wildlife.

Many animals also give birth during the height of summer, so it is an excellent time to visit if you want to see young lion or leopard cubs at play or wobbly zebra foals following closely behind their mothers.

Malaria Precautions

The main malarial areas are the Greater Kruger National Park, the game reserves and National Parks in KwaZulu-Natal, and the Etosha National Park in Namibia. The game reserves of the Eastern Cape, Madikwe, Pilanesberg and the Waterberg are all malaria-free.

In the malarial areas, the risk of malaria is far less in the winter months, and coupled with the cooler daytime temperatures makes this a popular time for visitors. The malaria risk is much higher during the summer months.

Visitors should still consult their doctor, however, before any trip to a malaria area with regards to taking advice on suitable precautions.