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A handy weather guide to Africa

The best time to visit Africa depends on the countries you want to visit, the time of the year, and if you are keen on going on one of the big five Africa safaris. Here is an overview of Africa destinations to help you plan the perfect African tours.

Best time to visit Africa

The Great Migration

Botswana

Botswana offers the best game viewing experiences during the dry months of June to October. In October, while temperatures can rise up to 40 ° C during the day, they can drop below 10 ° C at night. The months of April and May are also suitable for a Botswana safari, although you have experience the occasional bout of rain as well.

  • Best time to visit: June to October
  • Watch out: Nights can be cold and chilly during the peak season, especially in the drier areas
Enchanting Travels-Botswana Tours-Okavango Delta-Vumbura Plains-Boat ride

Kenya

The best time to travel to Kenya is between mid-December to mid-March and from June to October. The country experiences heavy rainfall between April and June, and shorter spells of rain in November and December. However, with various parts of Kenya being accessible at different months, you can actually travel in Kenya throughout the year.

  • Best time to visit: July to October
  • Watch out: Expect chilly weather conditions in higher altitudes
Best time to visit Africa

Lesotho

Seasons in Lesotho are diametrically opposite to ours. While in winter, temperatures can dip to -15°C, summer days are uniformly pleasant at 30 ° C. Lesotho also experiences the occasional thunderstorm during the summer months. Spring and autumn are the best time to travel to Lesotho, with April and May being the ideal months.

  • Best time to visit: May to October
  • Watch out: Great game-watching opportunities, but nights can be as cold as -12°C
Best time to visit Africa

Malawi

In Malawi, the weather is distinctly different between summer, winter and the rainy season. While May to July are the cooler months, Malawi experiences warm weather between August and September. Road conditions are poor during the rainy months from the end of September until April, making it difficult to travel in Malawi. With the weather being generally quite warm throughout the year, we recommend travel to Malawi between the months of May to August or September.

  • Best time to visit: June to August
  • Watch out: Days are warm and cloudless but nights can be cold
Best time to visit Africa

Mauritius

Mauritius experiences warm and sunny weather with few variations between seasons. Beach holidays in Mauritius are possible at any time of the year, although there are possibilities of heavy storms in January and February. As the country is located in the southern hemisphere, expect dry weather with low humidity between the months of May to November.

  • Best time to visit: September to January
  • Watch out: The summer months typically get heavy rainfall with occasional thunderstorms
Best time to visit Africa

Morocco

Moroccan weather can be unpredictable from October through February and can vary from one year to the next; some winters are moderate and others are wet and cold. Generally, the months April, May, October and early November are the best time to visit Morocco for a more comfortable, temperate climate.

  • Best time to visit: September and October
  • Watch out: October is a busy month for tourism so please confirm your travel plans much in advance
Best time to visit Africa

Mozambique

In Mozambique too, the dry and wet seasons are distinctly different from one another. The dry weather lasts from April to September and is generally the best time to travel to Mozambique. As you travel inland, or to the south, the weather can be quite hot and humid during the rainy season.

  • Best time to visit: June to October
  • Watch out: Due to strong winds in August, visibility can be poor in some areas
Dinner at the beach at Azura at Quilalea Lodge in Quirimbas, Mozambique

Namibia

The sun shines down on Namibia throughout the year! Set in the southern hemisphere, Namibia can be quite cold in the dry winter months, with temperatures often dipping below the freezing point. The time between June to October is best for Namibia safaris.

  • Best time to visit: April to June
  • Watch out: By the end of June, temperatures as well as the amount of greenery begin to decrease steadily
Wild Lion - Etosha, national Park, Namibia, Africa

Rwanda and Uganda

It is best to travel to Rwanda and Uganda during the long dry season between May to October or in the short dry season between December to March. Traveling in the rainy season is also possible as rainfall generally occurs in short, violent bursts. If you are interested in gorilla trekking, do keep in mind that Volcanoes National Park experiences plenty of rainfall throughout the year.

  • Best time to visit: July to October
  • Watch out: This being the dry season, food is harder to find in Nyungwe, so chimp families often retreat further into the forest.
Enchanting Travels African safari parks to see - Mountain gorilla female - things to do in rwanda

Seychelles

The climate of Seychelles is determined by the winds that blow through the country! The North-West trade winds bring warm and humid weather between the months of October to March, while in January and February, the country receives a lot of rainfall. Seychelles experiences cool and dry weather between May to October, making these the best months for travel.

  • Best time to visit: May to October
  • Watch out: These are the busiest months for tourism in Seychelles
Best time to visit Africa

South Africa

The climate varies significantly between regions, so the best time to travel in South Africa depends on what you wish to do. As the country is in the southern hemisphere, seasons in South Africa are opposite to ours. While Springtime, between August and October, is the ideal time for safaris, you can actually travel to South Africa all around the year. During the school holidays, between mid-December to mid-January, as well as in Easter, a large amount of local tourists flock to popular destinations. Thus, it is best to avoid traveling in popular South African destinations at this time.

  • Best time to visit: May to October in the north and eastern parts; October to November and February to March in the Southern Cape region
  • Watch out: Between May to August in the north and eastern parts, expect cool and dry weather with temperatures dipping below -12°C at night.
Sitting next to elephants in Kruger Central, South Africa

Tanzania

Tanzania is great for year round travel, so before you plan your trip, consider which activities and experiences are important to you. April and May are the least suitable months for travel to Tanzania as it rains heavily during this time.

  • Best time to visit: July to October
  • Watch out: It can get quite cold in the higher altitudes
Best time to visit Africa

Zambia

The best time to travel to Zambia is during the cool and dry months of May to August. The temperature is pleasantly mild at this time and it is also a great time for game viewing. In the hot and dry season, temperatures can rise up to 40 ° C, although this is also a great time for a safari in Zambia. While it is difficult to reach remote areas during the rainy season, this is also the best time for bird watching.

  • Best time to visit: June to August
  • Watch out: While the days are warm and cloudless, nights can be chilly!
Hippo watching in South Luangwa, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe

The best time to visit Zimbabwe is between the cool, dry months of May and August. While the temperature is generally around 20 ° C during the daytime, nights are usually cooler. In the higher regions of Zimbabwe, temperatures can drop below freezing point. These months are also considered the best for safaris in Zimbabwe.

  • Best time to visit: June to August
  • Watch out: Pack warm winter clothes for morning game drives since temperatures can dip as low as 6°C
Best time to visit Africa

Best time to see the Victoria Falls

With the summer rains just ended, the Victoria Falls are at their impressive best during the months of March and April. Expect to be thoroughly drenched by the spray from this show-stopper if you are visiting during this time. It’s also the ideal time for a scenic helicopter ride in the Victoria Falls, flying over the gushing cascade of water. The months of July and August are also considered the best time to visit Victoria Falls. Water levels are still impressive during this time and you can also visit the Devil’s Pool at the edge of the cliff and Livingstone Island located mid-river.

Best time to visit Africa

The Best Time to travel to Africa

Do you have more questions about the best time to visit Africa? Africa tours need to be planned well, especially if you wish to include several countries and experiences, such as safaris and beach holidays, into your itinerary. Let us experts plan the best African safari tours and advise you on the best time to visit Africa. Tell us your Africa travel dream and we will design your private and tailor-made Africa tour to match all your interests and preferences.

Best time to visit Africa

The Best Time to go to Africa For A Wildlife Safari

Wondering what’s the best time to visit Africa for a wildlife safari? It can be overwhelming to decide when to go on a safari vacation in Africa, especially if you plan to visit multiple destinations. Our well-traveled experts can help you with their insights and recommendations, based on your interests. Whether you want to witness the Great Migration in Africa, trek through the Kalahari Desert or glide along on a canoe in the Okavango Delta, our experts can curate the best African safari tours tailored exclusively for you.

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Popular Trips To Africa

Best time to visit Africa

Highlights of Northern Tanzania

9 Days from $4,790 USD / person

Embark on an adventure through Northern Tanzania’s iconic parks, including Tarangire, the Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater. Witness vast herds, spot predators, and take in breathtaking landscapes on thrilling game drives. You will also experience the rich culture of local communities and relax in luxurious lodges. This journey can be tailor-made to suit your travel style…

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Best time to visit Africa

Kenya: Southern Circuit and Beach

13 Days from $6,890 USD / person

Set out on a fabulous vacation through Kenya’s southern circuit, starting in Nairobi and exploring the wildlife-rich parks of Amboseli and Tsavo. Enjoy close-up views of elephants and Mount Kilimanjaro. Head out on exciting game drives in diverse landscapes. Discover remote lodges and have cultural encounters along the way. End the trip unwinding on the…

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Best time to visit Africa

Highlights of Kenya

9 Days from $5,490 USD / person

Discover Kenya’s rich wildlife and culture on a personalized tour that takes you from the plains of Amboseli to the iconic Maasai Mara. Enjoy thrilling game drives, meet local communities, and take in breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. This luxury safari can be tailored to match your interests and travel pace.

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Best time to visit Africa

South Africa: Highlights of the Western and Eastern Cape

9 Days from $3,990 USD / person

Go on an amazing journey through South Africa’s Western and Eastern Capes during this 9-day trip. Begin in vibrant and colorful Cape Town with its iconic landmarks and coastal scenery. Savor world-class wines in the Cape Winelands and explore the charming towns along the Garden Route. Discover dramatic coastlines, endemic wildlife, and lush forests as…

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Best time to visit Africa

Kenya and Egypt: Big Five Safari and Human History

17 Days from $15,490 USD / person

Embark on a customized journey through Kenya and Egypt, that allows you to experience ancient civilizations and have thrilling wildlife encounters. Head to Kenya’s iconic national parks for unforgettable safari adventures and to spot the Big Five. After, explore the pyramids of Giza, visit the museums in Cairo and sail the Nile. This immersive tour…

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Best time to visit Africa

Luxury Kenya: Walking Safaris and Beaches

13 Days from $11,290 USD / person

Marvel at the assorted treasures of Kenya’s wilderness on this customizable journey, which takes you through Laikipia, Masai Mara and the Kenyan Coast. The highlight of your trip is a memorable three-day walking safari across the vast open plains of the Laikipia region. As you make your way from the ancient campsite of Nayasura to…

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Enchanting Travels African safari parks to see

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Best time for Safaris

Whether it is classic safaris in world-renowned national parks, luxury safaris in remote destinations, drive-through tours in Kruger, or world class game viewing in Zimbabwe with the best guides, African safari tours can be life-changing. Plan the ideal wildlife safari in Africa by combining a visit to several countries and include unique experiences in your itinerary. Discover the best time for safaris in Africa by region.

Best time for African Safaris

Things To Do

From rolling savannas to thundering waterfalls and hundreds and thousands of animals roaming freely through vast, timeless landscapes, Africa tours offer fascinating bucket-list experiences. Discover the top ten highlights of Africa, as recommended by our destination experts. From the Great Migration in the Serengeti to a luxury safari on the Okavango Delta, discover bucket-list Africa!

Things To Do In Africa

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