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Best time to travel to Africa

When, where to go?

When, where to go?

Africa, the second largest continent in the world, is a fascinating destination that offers an incredible variety of landscapes, wildlife and cultural experiences. But before you plan your trip, it's important to know when is the best time to travel to your planned destination. We can help you answer your questions about the best time to go on safari in Africa and which month is best for gorilla trekking.

Written by: Anja Sterker Last updated at: June 26, 2024

The best time to travel for an unforgettable safari in Africa

A safari in Africa is a dream come true for many adventure seekers and nature lovers. The opportunity to observe wild animals in their natural habitat and experience the breathtaking scenery of the African continent is an experience you will remember forever. But before you plan your safari adventure, it is important to know the best time to travel to ensure the optimal conditions for an unforgettable safari.

The dry season: the best time for a safari in Africa

In general, the best time to go on safari in Africa is during the dry season, which is usually during the winter months in the southern hemisphere. During this time, rainfall is minimal, vegetation is less dense and animals often congregate around waterholes, making game viewing easier.

The dry season also offers pleasant temperatures that are ideal for going on safaris all day in open off-road vehicles or on foot without being affected by heavy rains or humid air. In addition, roads in national parks and reserves are often more passable during the dry season, improving accessibility to safari destinations.

The dry season varies by region

There are some differences between East Africa and Southern Africa that should be taken into account when planning your trip. In East Africa, which includes countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda, the dry season usually falls from June to October. This is the best time for game viewing and safaris, especially to experience the famous wildebeest migration in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara.

In Southern Africa, which includes countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi, the dry season usually falls from May to October. The dry season also offers the best conditions for safaris here, with the months of August to October being particularly popular.

Elefanten wandern beim Sonnenuntergang über Savanne

The best time to travel to selected safari destinations

  • Uganda, the "Pearl of Africa", impresses with a variety of ecosystems, including lush forests, vast savannahs and majestic mountain ranges. The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry months from June to September and from December to February. During this time, roads are more accessible and game viewing is at its best in national parks such as Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is also ideal during these months, as the rains are less frequent, making the hikes a little easier.
  • Rwanda, often referred to as the "land of a thousand hills", is known for its breathtaking scenery and fascinating gorilla population. The best time to visit Rwanda is also during the dry seasons, which range from June to September and from December to February. range. There is less rain during these months, which makes it easier to hike to the gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park and increases the chances of observing these majestic animals in their natural environment. Temperatures are pleasant and visibility is clear, making it an ideal time for safaris and other outdoor activities.
  • Republic of Congo: The Republic of Congo, often known as 'Congo-Brazzaville', is a land of rare beauty and wilderness that is often overlooked by travelers. The best time to visit Congo is also during the dry seasons from June to September and from December to February. During this time, the roads are more passable and the forests of Odzala-Kokoua National Park offer optimal conditions for spotting gorillas, chimpanzees and an abundance of bird species.
  • Kenya: The best time to go on safari in Kenya is during the dry season from June to October. This is also the best time to experience the great migration in the Maasai Mara.
  • Tanzania: The dry season from June to October is the best time for safaris in Tanzania. This is the best time to visit the Serengeti and experience the wildebeest migration.
  • South Africa: May to September is the best time to go on safari in Southern Africa, including South Africa. This is the dry season and offers the best conditions for game viewing in Kruger National Park and other reserves.
  • Botswana: The best time to go on safari in Botswana is from May to October. This is the dry season and offers the best conditions for game viewing in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park.
  • Namibia: The best time to travel to Namibia is from March to November. These are the dry winter months, which offer the best conditions for safaris in Etosha National Park and for exploring the desert.
Ein Elefantenbulle läuft über die grüne Savanne

Overall, Africa offers fascinating travel experiences all year round, but choosing the best time to visit depends on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you want to explore wildlife, visit cultural sites or engage in adventure activities, Africa offers something special for every traveler. It is important to plan your trip carefully and find out in advance about climatic conditions and the best times to travel to your specific destinations. We will be happy to provide you with advice and assistance, answer your questions and help you plan your trip. Just write to us.

If you are interested in a safari in the other African countries, then take a look at our visit our website Safari Memories. Here you will find more travel destinations in Africa and we will be happy to help you make your dream of a safari in Africa come true.

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