Seasons in Africa
Here are all the seasons in Africa that will help choose the best time to travel for your safari.
Seasons in Africa
Africa has two main travel seasons: the Dry Season and the Wet Season, varying in timing slightly by region. The dry season is the best time for wildlife safaris, as animals gather around waterholes, making them easier to spot. This is also when the Great Migration happens in East Africa.
The wet season, also called the Green Season, transforms the landscape into lush greenery, attracts migratory birds, and is the best time for budget travelers due to fewer crowds and lower prices. Southern Africa’s top parks, like Kruger and Okavango Delta, are best from May to October, while gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is ideal during drier months (June–September and December–February). No matter the season, Africa always offers incredible safari experiences tailored to different interests.
Travel Seasons in Africa
REGION/SEASON | DRY SEASON | WET SEASON |
EAST AFRICA | January to February, June to October; Best time to visit safari destinations like the Maasai Mara and Serengeti | March to May November to December; During this time safari destinations are greener and less crowded. |
SOUTH AFRICA | May to October; Best time for a safari, expect cold nights however. | November to April; However, beaches are at their best in South Africa and the Okavango delta is a lush green paradise. |
NORTH AFRICA | Mostly dry all year round | Nov to January; for the coastal regions, perfect time to visit Egypt. |
CENTRAL AFRICA | December to February June to September | Mostly wet all year but hot and humid due to closeness to the equator |