When planning your travels to Africa, the factors of weather and seasons are important, but so is what you wish to experience. The continent’s diversity, from unique national parks and migrations to cultural experiences and timed events, varies dramatically throughout the year. Choosing a certain month of the year can make the difference between seeing and missing out on incredible bucket list moments.
Use this guide to help choose where and when to visit Africa and experience these amazing events that you do not want to skip.
Victoria Falls in Full Flow (March - May)
Best For: Photographers, Bucketlist Travellers
Where: Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls flow is best experienced at its peak. The mist surrounds visitors, and rainbows can be seen throughout the showers. For dramatic photography and views of the falls, this period of time is best, especially if you are considering a helicopter flight over the falls.
African Wild Dog Pup Season (June–August, varies by region)
Best For: Wildlife Lovers, Seasoned Safari Travellers
Where: Botswana, Zimbabwe & South Africa
As an endangered species, seeing African wild dog pups on safari is an especially magical moment. While this timing varies between different regions, the window from June to August has the highest chance of witnessing pups leaving their dens. Seeing small pups playing with other pack members is a safari sighting you won’t forget.
The Elephant Gathering in Chobe (August–October)
Best For: Elephant Lovers, Wildlife Photographers
Where: Chobe National Park, Botswana
While Chobe is home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations year-round, the dry season draws in massive gatherings of the giant nomads. The rains of April flow into the Delta and bring in animals from all around. Visitors can witness herds playing, bathing, and even swimming across the river with trunks raised as snorkels.
The seasons also brings sightings of baby elephants, making it an even more memorable time for boat cruises and safaris.
Peak Predator & Leopard Sightings (September–November)
Best For: Big Cat Enthusiasts, Photographers
Where: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Zambia may not be the size of Tanzania, but its national parks are hidden gems. South Luangwa National Park is renowned for its dense population of predators, especially its leopards. During the dry season of September to November, prey gathers at water sources. With scarce food, these nocturnal cats begin hunting in the day, and the thinning vegetation can make them easier to spot in rare daylight sightings.
Meteor Showers & Full Moon Viewing (Dates Vary)
Best For: Stargazers, Romantic Getaways
Where: Namib Desert, Namibia
Stargazing is already magical in Namibia’s desert due to it having some of the darkest skies in the world. It makes it the perfect location for watching meteor showers and night-sky photography. Experience it solo or with someone special – the moment is an amazing memory to make.
Southern Right Whale Watching (August–November)
Best For: Marine Animal Lovers, Families
Where: Hermanus, South Africa
Hermanus is a cosy coastal town and one of the world’s top whale-watching destinations. During mating and calving season, Southern Right Whales come so close to the shore they can be sighted from land. A boardwalk has been built for the best view possible as you stroll Hermanus’ beachside. Keep an eye out for blowhole mist, breaching and tail slapping. Aside from the whales, Hermanus also draws in dolphins and Cape fur seals.
Namaqualand Wildflowers (August–October)
Best For: Photographers, Hikers, Nature Lovers
Where: Namaqualand, Namibia
Each year this desert landscape turns into a carpet of orange, white, yellow and pink wildflowers. This short-lived blooming season brings travellers from around the world to this nature reserve to experience it themselves. This amazing sight can also be found in South Africa, but Namaqualand is the more dramatic of the two. A story of resilience and a beautiful sight, this is a must-visit for photographers and hikers.
The Great Wildebeest Migration (July to October)
Best For: Bucketlist Safaris, Wildlife Lovers
Where: Serengeti, Tanzania & Masai Mara, Kenya
With thousands of wildebeest and zebra crossing the savannah between two iconic national parks, there is no surprise that this is one of the most well-known and popular wildlife events in the world. Travellers often have this as a bucketlist experience. This event reaches the height of its drama in the Masai Mara National Park during August and September. However, the migration pattern can be seen in both Kenya and Tanzania, make sure to check your travel dates and that they align with the right place & timing
Southern Africa Bird Migration (November - February)
Best For: Birders, Photographers, Seasoned Travellers
Where: Kruger NP, South Africa & Okavango Delta
Southern Africa becomes perfect for birders between October and February. The treetops come alive with migratory species from all over the world, bringing colour and sound to the thicket. Several rare and critically endangered birds can be sighted during this time, along with flashes of brightly coloured birds from Europe. Remember to book a birding safari to make the most of this season.
Whale Shark & Humpback Season (September–February)
Best For: Snorkeling, Diving, Marine Photography
Where: Tofo & Coastline, Mozambique
A haven for seaside relaxation and snorkeling opportunties, Mozambique’s waters are home to the endangered whale shark. While they can be seen throughout the year, whale sharks flock to Tofo for seasonal feeding time in September through till February. For marine or snorkeling enthusiasts, you have to add this to your travel wishlist. There are also plenty of stingrays, sharks and dolphins to discover while diving or snorkeling the reefs.
