News Article
6 August 2026
Timing is everything when it comes to planning an unforgettable safari. While Africa offers incredible wildlife encounters throughout the year, each season brings something different, from the dramatic migrations and the Okavango Delta's annual floodwaters to the lush green landscapes of the rainy season and the exceptional predator action of the Serengeti's calving season.
Whether you're dreaming of your first Big Five adventure or returning to discover a new corner of the continent, choosing the right destination for the right time of year can make all the difference. In this month-by-month guide, we've highlighted our favourite luxury safari destinations for every month of the year, helping you experience Africa at its very best. From Botswana and Kenya to South Africa, Tanzania and beyond, discover where to travel for extraordinary wildlife, expert guiding and unforgettable safari experiences.
Kenya
January finds Kenya and the Masai Mara in calving season, with plenty of newborn plains game to be found alongside the predatory big cats that follow them.
The weather is at its prime, with clear, hot days and minimal rain, making it perfect game viewing weather.
Tanzania
Much like in Kenya, the start of the year means it is calving season in the Serengeti as well, with aroun 500,000 wildbeest calves born each year. This time of year is particularly appealing for keen photographers.
This is also a particularly good time to see cheetah in the area, as the elusive cats can be found on the region's open plains.
South Africa
While the rains have started in East Africa, in South Africa, you will find drier weather and slightly cooler temperatures as autumn begins.
The bush thins out, making visibility and tracking even better than usual and creating unforgettable wildlife viewings.
Botswana
The Okavango Delta is normally in full flood in May, making the unique landscape even more beautiful than usual with meandering waterways and lush greenery.
Wildlife viewing at this time is good, although it is still considered "shoulder season", so there are some cost-saving offers to be found.
Zambia
June sees Zambia transition from green season into peak season, as seasonal camps reopen and more and more wildlife is drawn towards the water sources as dry weather continues.
Temperatures remain warm, rather than roasting hot, making it an excellent time to enjoy Zambia's renowned walking safaris.
Namibia
July is a wonderful time to visit Namibia as temperatures remain warm, dry and enjoyable. Wildlife sightings at Etosha National Park are at their peak, and unique desert-adapted wildlife can be seen throughout the country.
With the dry season in full force, wildlife is found congregating around the permanent water sources across Etosha National Park.
Rwanda
Lower rainfall in the forest makes August a fantastic time to visit Rwanda and experience gorilla trekking.
While rain is always a risk in Volcanoes National Park, this is one of the most popular times to visit Rwanda, which does mean it can be busy, so booking for the limited trekking permits well in advance is recommended.
Tanzania
While the Great Migration crossings in Serengeti are often the big draw at this time of year, we would recommend visiting a number of the other parks across the country.
In Tarangire National Park you will find yourself surrounded by the elephant migration, while in the "Southern Circuit" parks like Ruaha and Nyerere National Park, you will find remote camps and quiet game drives as well as exceptional wildlife.
Zimbabwe
Vast elephant herds gather around the park's waterholes during the late dry season, creating one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife experiences.
As one of the few locations with permanent water sources, Hwange National Park draws exceptional wildlife year-round.
South Africa
November marks the start of South Africa's green season, when the bush is lush, wildlife is abundant and many animals welcome their young.
Warm temperatures, fewer visitors and excellent birdwatching make it a rewarding time to visit, while private reserves such as Sabi Sands and Madikwe continue to offer superb Big Five sightings.
Kenya
December is a wonderful time to visit Kenya, with warm weather after the short rains, which draw to a close in early December, and create lush landscapes before the peak festive crowds.
The Maasai Mara offers superb resident game and predator sightings, while Amboseli boasts spectacular elephant encounters against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. It's also an excellent time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive.
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