Best Time To Visit South Africa
Remember, all our itineraries are totally flexible and can be changed to suit you.
Why Go On South Africa Safari Tours
South Africa is one of the world’s most diverse holiday destinations in Africa. From the classic safari country of Kruger National Park deliver Africa’s most reliable Big 5 game viewing to the stately ‘mother city’ of Cape Town; from the snow-sprinkled heights of the Drakensberg to the parched red dunescapes of the Kalahari; from the gorgeous Cape Winelands to the idyllic beaches of the Garden Route best for family holidays and self-drive adventures – especially when combined with malaria-free game parks of the Eastern Cape – a tour to South Africa is a true all-rounder that attracts more than its fair share of repeat visitors. It is also the most affordable and well equipped of African safari destinations, particularly well-suited to luxury family holidays, to those seeking a malaria-free holidays, to dedicated foodies and wine-lovers, and for combining a foray into Big Five country with a beach holiday and/or city break.
When Is The Best Time To Visit South Africa For Safari?
African safari experts have it that the best time to visit South Africa is from May to September, which is without question true although South Africa offers good conditions and comfortable year-round temperatures so as a country that can be visited throughout the year, it’s hard to define a best time to go.
Planning your next South Africa holiday? Discover the best months for visiting South Africa, whether you’re planning a wildlife safari or looking for luxury beach holidays in South Africa’s coastal shores.
With that said, understanding South Africa’s safari seasons, made up of peak season, shoulder season & low season will also give you an upper hand in making your decision about South Africa wildlife safaris.
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Month-By-Month Guide On When To Go To South Africa
In this guide, we explain further about the best time of the year to visit South Africa for a safari by month, and apart from sharing with you insights to South Africa’s best safari months, our listed South Africa climate guide is designed to assist you plan your trip to South Africa.
Overall Best Time to Visit South Africa
Travelling to South Africa from May to September (Dry Season) – Best time to visit since wildlife congregate around waterholes and rivers
Travelling to South Africa from October to April – Best time for bird watching and bird migration
Best Weather – April to May and September to October
Visiting South Africa In January
Travelling for South Africa safari in January?
South Africa in January, South Africa’s Eastern Cape experience their summer season, the hot summer means high temperatures and zero rainfall meaning it’s a good opportunity to spot the Big Five in the region’s malaria-free private game reserves.
Visiting South Africa In February
Travelling for South Africa safari in February?
South Africa in February marks one of the hottest months, particularly in Cape Town with average high temperatures that can range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F-90°F), while average low temperatures at night can range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F-68°F) depending on the region. This time of year is characterized by long days of sunshine and warm temperatures throughout the country, making it the perfect time to explore the vibrant cities, beautiful beaches and stunning wildlife reserves.
February is the best time to visit South Africa if you want to avoid the festive crowds, but it’s still a busy month and can get booked up well in advance if travelling to South Africa’s summer season in February.
Visiting South Africa In March
Travelling for South Africa safari in March?
South Africa in March marks the last month of summer, and in general expect warm temperatures with plenty of sunshine, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities such as African bush safaris, a good time for beach holidays with different regions offering varied climates. Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves offers easier wildlife spotting as the lush summer vegetation starts to clear whilst Cape Town and the Western Cape starts cooling down with regular windy spells, cooler evenings and crisp early mornings.
Visiting South Africa In April
Travelling for South Africa safari in April?
South Africa in April starts off as a busy month and experiences mild temperatures with warm days and cooler evenings, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as safaris, hiking, or exploring scenic landscapes.
Although game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves can be relatively challenging as animals are spread out, and the thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility, for a passionate wildlife photographer, this is arguably the best time to visit South Africa for a wildlife photographic safari, given the lush green condition of the bush and clearer skies.
The April weather in South Africa remains warm and dry throughout most of the country, which means it’s an ideal time for beach holidays along the east coast because of its warm and tropical climate throughout the year. However, it’s worth noting that temperatures can vary significantly depending on the region.
Visiting South Africa In May
Travelling for South Africa safari in May?
South Africa in May is usually pleasant, marking the shift from autumn slowly to winter in the southern hemisphere. Across the country, however there is still a good deal of sunshine even during the colder months. May in South Africa generally brings cooler temperatures compared to the summer months, with clear skies and lower humidity levels.
The game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves tends to improve following the end of the rains. May is still a perfect time for beach holidays on the Indian Ocean coastline of Kwa-Zulu Natal. Which tends to be temperate to hot over the nominal winter months, and very dry with conditions on the coast of the Eastern and Western Cape less predictable.
Visiting South Africa In June
Travelling for South Africa safari in June?
Travelling to South Africa in June represents the start of winter, bringing cooler temperatures and drier conditions across much of the country. In June, the Kruger National Park and the north experience predominantly warm, dry days around 77°F, with cool nights whereas Cape Town averages a pleasant 63°F, but you will need an umbrella because the region does experience rainfall at this time of the year.
This weather pattern makes it suitable for indoor cultural activities, wine tasting, and exploring cities, outdoor activities like game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves is excellent in June, as animals gather close to water sources but you may require warmer clothing and planning for cooler conditions.
Additionally, if you want to see whales along South Africa’s coast, whale season kicks off in the month of June. Hermanus provides you with a straightforward whale-watching experience along its coastal location, particularly in this month when Southern Right Whales frequent the area.
Visiting South Africa In July
Travelling for South Africa safari in July?
South Africa in July falls in the winter season, characterized by temperatures which range from cool to mild across most of the country. It’s a great time to explore, and yet another great month for whale watching in South Africa. In the northern regions like Johannesburg and Pretoria, daytime highs average around 61°F, while nighttime lows drop to around 39°F.
The Southern right whales can be easily spotted along South Africa’s Whale Coast after their long journey from the Arctic, to give birth to their young in the warmer waters. This period is a continuation of the low season in South Africa, characterized by generally dry weather throughout the country, as well as the benefits of reduced safari prices.
This is the time to go to South Africa for a safaris in the Kruger National Park – game viewing is excellent with improved visibility, and daytime temperatures moderate.
Visiting South Africa In August
Travelling for South Africa safari in August?
South Africa in August marks the dry season, meaning rainfall is almost non-existent and you’ll have pleasant long days packed with sunshine and warmth, with exceptional opportunities to see wildlife, connect with local communities, and join in cultural events in the pleasant winter climate.
The benefits of travelling during this month includes reduced crowds and lower safari prices. August is usually the month when flowers begin to bloom across the Western Cape and the Northern Cape regions.
Visiting South Africa In September
Travelling for South Africa safari in September?
South Africa in September marks the official end of the winter, and welcomes an early spring characterized by a transition to warmer temperatures and offers the last chance to admire the wildflower takeover of the Western and Northern Cape provinces. The weather is for the most part sunny and mild, although some regions have occasional afternoon rains, especially towards the end of the month.
It’s a good month to vacation in South Africa anywhere in the country and a great time to visit South Africa for a safari in spring, with an added advantage of low number of tourists. Take it to Shamwari Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape, Phinda Game Reserve in Kwa-Zulu Natal, and the Kruger National Park which all offer some of the best game viewing experiences during this time.
Visiting South Africa In October
Travelling for South Africa safari in October?
South Africa in October is an ideal safari month, and for the most part pleasant with average temperatures ranging from mild in the southern regions to warmer in the northern regions. Adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit, this period is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, Cape Town International Kite Festival, Oktoberfest in Port Elizabeth and visiting the country’s beautiful beaches.
October is the best time to visit South Africa for a coastal trip, combined with an inland game drive before the peak season begins.
Visiting South Africa In November
Travelling for South Africa safari in November?
South Africa in November is characterized by warm – sunny atmosphere, and low off-season rates making it ideal for outdoor activities such as wildlife safaris, beach walks and trekking safaris. At this time of year, this is your last month to view whales at the Western Cape before they begin their long journey back to the Arctic and the perfect month to view nesting leatherback turtles plus, it’s a great time for a Cape Town beach holiday before the crowds pack the sands.
November rains begin in northern KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng whereas game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves can be relatively challenging as animals are spread out, and thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility.
Visiting South Africa In December
Travelling for South Africa safari in December?
South Africa in December is summer time, with average high temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) and average low temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), indicating that it is generally hot throughout the country at this time. With long dry day’s, sunny spells, clear blue skies, and lots of activities to take part in, this is the perfect time and place to take your winter break.
December also marks a busy month across South Africa, especially along the sandy coast beaches. It’s a good idea to book restaurants and excursions well in advance during the festive period.
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Ready to Start Planning Your Visit to South Africa?
Not yet close to finding your best time to travel to South Africa? Worry not, chat with someone who’s been there. Get in touch with one of our African safari experts to help tailor-make a trip that’s right for you.
Discover Kenya Safaris
When it comes to choosing the best places for an African safari, it’s difficult to beat a safari to Kenya’s national parks and conservancies. Kenya delivers some of the best African safaris so far, from unforgettable African family safaris with child-friendly safari lodges to exclusive hide-outs for couples and honeymoon trips, there’s not much that beats a Kenya safari.
9 Days | 8 Nights
Frequently Asked South Africa Safari Questions
Q. Passport, Visa & Other Kenya Entry Requirements
As for the documentations you need for your holiday in Kenya, keep in mind entry requirements can change, so please contact your local Kenyan embassy or high commission to verify that the following information below is up to date.
-A passport is required for all foreign visitors and must be valid for at least six months.
-No visa is required. Instead, all visitors must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).
-Visitors must apply in advance for the eTA on www.etakenya.go.ke.
-The standard processing time is three days, but you can apply up to three months prior to travel and early application is recommended.
-When arriving from a yellow-fever-infected country in Africa or the Americas, a yellow-fever vaccination certificate is required.
-For more information we strongly direct checking the website of your local Kenyan embassy/high commission or the government travel advisories below:
Australia – www.smartraveller.gov.au
Canada – travel.gc.ca
EU Member States – ec.europa.eu
Ireland – www.ireland.ie
New Zealand – www.safetravel.govt.nz
United Kingdom – www.gov.uk
United States – travel.state.gov
Q. How much does a safari in Kenya cost?
The cost for a Kenya safari starts from USD $250 to USD $2,500 per person per day depending on your level of safari; either travelling on a mid-range comfort safari or a luxury Kenya safari. Talk to one of our African travel experts to ensure the best Kenya safari experience in line with your time and budget. Your final Kenya safari cost depends on the following factors:
– Time of year you’re travelling; low and high season prices.
– Your choice of luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps.
– Duration of your stay in Kenya.
– Where you are visiting and in what means, you have the option to choose between fly-in Kenya safaris or by road, using a comfy 4 X 4 Land Cruiser jeep with open rooftop. The cost for the two greatly differ.
– Your choice of additional safari activities which range from inclusive wildlife activities to optional activities like hot air balloon rides and visits to the Masai villages for cultural interactions.
Q. What medication do I need for Kenya safari?
About medicine on your trip to Kenya, we recommend anti-malarial medication no matter what time of year you plan on visiting Kenya for safari. Kindly consult with your doctor at home for advice on the right choice of prophylaxis for your body well in advance of your departure date. Additionally, if you live in a yellow fever region or plan to travel through a region where it is endemic during your stay, you will need a yellow fever vaccination and certificate.
Q. Where to stay on safari in Kenya
With hundreds of excellent luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps, you will be spoilt with lots of choices to pick from during your stay. But worry not, we will help you select the best lodges to stay in during your trip.
Additionally, when we talk about safari standards, the service level is high, with the ability to deliver the best luxury African safaris, suitable accommodations from lavish safari lodges to modern day boutique hotels and classic tented safari camps.
We shall share our list of top luxury accommodation options in Kenya – from eco-friendly architecture to the best luxury tented camps with a front-row seat to experience African wildlife mostly near game viewing hot spots like the Mara River where the Wildebeest Migration safari takes place. Our list of the best Kenya safari lodges also covers mid-range camps which can come in handy If you are travelling on budget.
Q. Where are the places to visit in Kenya?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
South Africa Safari Reservations
Q. What type of clothes do I wear on Kenya safari?
Pack lightweight, comfortable, and casual clothing for a Kenyan safari, including long sleeves, pants, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and layers for cooler mornings and evenings on game drives. For more details, we suggest you do your own safari packing essentials and find out what fits your interests.
Browse our safari clothing packing advice on what to pack for your African tour:
- Lightweight trousers /shorts and t-shirts remain ideal for the daytime drives.
- Lightweight jacket / fleece for the early mornings and evenings.
- Remember to also pack some warm socks and a woolly hat would be suggested for early morning and evening game drives.
- Hiking shoes
Other items we would suggest you bring along with you include:
- Sunscreen glasses & hat/cap
- Comfy Shoes / Sandals
- Flip Flops to wear during the day
- A Torch / Lamp
- Binoculars
- Phone/laptop charger
- Pack your medication, and a spare set of spectacles or contact lenses if you wear these.
Q. What is the best time to see the Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya?
The best time to witness the dramatic Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya is typically between mid-July through mid-September where your chances of witnessing a river crossing are generally much higher. In early October marks the end of the herd crossing the river from Kenya down into Tanzania, as thunderstorms begin in the north the herds will embark on their return journey back to the Serengeti.
Checkout our Migration safari offers.
Q. Kenya Vs Tanzania: Which Is Better for an African Safari?
Choosing between Kenya and Tanzania for an African safari depends on personal preferences, BUT Kenya is the most chosen being cost & budget friendly during both high and low seasons. Secondly, when it comes to the best places to stay in Kenya and Tanzania, both destinations offer fantastic accommodations. Thirdly in terms of Big 5 sightings, the wildebeest migration & general game viewing, both destinations are safari heavyweights. In terms of privacy and extending your safari beyond game drives, there are more private conservancies in Kenya than Tanzania which offer you plenty of activities inside the park.
Lastly, Kenya safari is the most sought-after destination for the world’s best safari experiences, evident from the large number of celebrities visiting year in year out.
Q. Will I have a private vehicle or shared game drives with other people?
We tend to enforce a maximum person per vehicle policy of 6. Meaning, although you’ll be sharing with other guests, everyone will get a side-view seat with unhindered views.
Some trips are designed in such a way that a private vehicle and guide are included for a portion of the trip, but the use of a private vehicle throughout your safari comes at an additional cost.
South Africa Flying Safaris
Q. How many days do you need for an Africa safari?
The ideal duration for an East Africa safari package often ranges from 5 to 14 days, this allows you to enjoy a comfortable and a well-rounded rewarding safari experience during this African tour package. It also depends on the destinations you will visit, wildlife interests, and personal preferences.
Q. What do I do in case of an emergency?
We have a 24 hour emergency line. If anything goes south, we’re ready to assist you regardless of time or date.
Q. Are there malaria mosquito nets in Africa safari tented camps?
Many tented camps in Africa provide fitted mosquito nets in all rooms which are also insect proofed to protect you against malaria mosquito bites and other insect bites, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay.
It’s also advisable to carry insect repellent to further protect yourself especially in the outdoors during evenings.
Q. Is there Wi-Fi at the safari lodges & tented camps on safari?
Almost all Africa safari lodges and tented camp accommodations during your safari provide free Wi-Fi. You’ll find this available in all three accommodation levels – comfort or luxury accommodations.
Wi-Fi is provided in the public areas of the safari lodges/tented camps including the reception, dining areas, and lounge. It is not provided in the individual rooms/tents.
Moreover, because you will be inside a wilderness park, we still request that you come prepared with your own network data to avoid any inconveniences.
South Africa Safari Payment Methods
Q. Do you provide drinking water on safari?
East Africa is within the tropics and near the Equator, separating the northern and southern hemispheres. The tropical temperatures are relatively high on the safari route and even within the national parks/game reserves.
Because you’ll need to frequently hydrate during your safari, we ensure unlimited supplies of drinking water.
All Vulture Africa Safari vehicles are fitted with a cooler box or mini fridge with a constant supply of cool, bottled water.
We replenish our supplies of drinking water during stops along the safari route.
Here’s everything you need to know about packing for your Africa safari trip.
Q. Are mosquito nets provided in safari lodge rooms/tents?
We carefully research and choose our selection of top safari lodges and tented camps to offer the best in terms of comfort, relaxation, amenities, and atmosphere during your safari.
We fully understand the need for your protection against mosquitos and other insects.
All rooms/tents during your safari are fitted with mosquito nets or are insect-proofed to protect you against bites.
Tented camp showing bedroom with mosquito nets
You are also advised to use insect repellent to further protect yourself especially outdoors in the evenings.
Q. Is it possible to store excess luggage while on safari?
Vulture African Safaris understands that your holiday travel may be lengthy and could involve different activities during your trip. You may find the need to store some of your luggage at various times.
You can safely store your extra luggage at our Nairobi office for safekeeping until you have completed your safari.
This is a free service extended to all our safari guests.
Packing luggage for an East African safari holiday tour
Additionally, our 4×4 safari Jeeps accommodate generous luggage space in its rear luggage compartment.
Q. Do you handle requests for special dietary needs?
Kenya and Tanzania welcomes visitors from all over the world and their diverse diet preferences. These preferences may be due to religious beliefs, lifestyles, or health concerns.
The menus in all safari lodges & tented camps are continental cuisine however, vegetarian, kosher, halal, gluten-free, etc. meals are also provided.
We request you indicate your special diet needs during safari booking/confirmation.
Why Book Your Safari in Advance?
Q. Do you provide airport hotel airport transfers when we arrive and depart Nairobi?
As part of our safari tour services, Vulture African Safaris provides free pickup and return to the airport/hotel for any guests who are booked for a 3-day or more safari tour with us.
The transfers are provided even if you arrive or depart several days before or after your safari start/end.
Please let us know your arrival & departure flight details including airline codes and arrival/departure times. We will provide you with the name of your driver and telephone contact in advance of your arrival/departure.
Q. Do you book or can you recommend a Nairobi hotel for our pre or post-safari stay?
If you are arriving in Nairobi earlier than your safari starting date or are intending to stay a few days more after your safari finish, you will require a Nairobi hotel.
Our listed safari tours and advertised prices do not include your Nairobi hotel.
Nairobi has a wide range of hotels in the economy, comfort, and luxury categories suitable for your 1 night or extended stay.
As part of your safari tour, Vulture Africa Safaris will pick you up at the airport and bring you to your respective Nairobi hotel or residence. This includes most areas around Nairobi.
We suggest that you look up and book online your preferred Nairobi hotel. If you should require advice, suggestions, or booking assistance for your Nairobi hotel, we will be happy to assist.
We can make suggestions depending on your budget and what area of the city you are interested in staying.
Q. Can we purchase a local Sim card for use while in Kenya?
A Kenyan Sim card will greatly reduce your telephone roaming bills during your visit and while on safari in Kenya
1 GB of data costs an average of $5.
Safaricom, a telco provider in Kenya is the market leader with the best national coverage and better deals.
Sim cards can be purchased from official stores or approved resellers. You can purchase them at the Nairobi airport upon arrival. Cost is approximately $1 or Ksh.100
To purchase local sim cards, you are required to have a Sim-unlocked GSM-compatible phone.
Q. What are your recommended safari tipping guidelines?
Tipping in guidelines for Kenya and Tanzania safaris – although not mandatory, is expected in return for good service.
All hotels, lodges, and porterage gratuities are included in the cost of your safari – these are collectively referred to as the service charge.
You may also decide to tip individual waiters, porters, and other hotel service employees who provide exemplary service. Usually, $1 – $5 per meal or move is appropriate and appreciated.
It is, however, customary to tip your safari driver/guide at the end of the safari tour. The amount is dependent on your evaluation of the quality of the service rendered. An average of $10 per guest per day or 5-10% of your safari-only cost is suggested. However, the amount is at your discretion – you are welcome to provide additional compensation to any staffer who has provided special services. A bar gratuity of $1 is acceptable.
You may tip in Kenya shillings, USD, or in Euro at the end of your safari and preferably in an envelope.