When is the best time to visit Africa?

Africa, the world‘s second-largest continent, is every traveler’s ultimate destination to discover diverse landscapes, profound culture, and incomparable wildlife. Due to its vastness and climatic variety, determining when to go to Africa wholly depends on what you’re seeking. Do you prefer action-packed safaris, unspoiled beaches, or cultural celebrations? The ideal time for you is highlighted here.

Best Time for an African Safari

A safari is one of the main reasons to go to Africa, and the best time to go depends on the area:

East Africa (Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda): The best time for seeing animals, and in particular, the Great Migration in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, is from June to October. This is a dry period and thus, it is not so hard to spot animals near water points.

Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia): The best time for safaris is May to October. The weather is dry, and the animals congregate at water points and rivers.

Best Time for African Beach Vacations

If you like a beach vacation, Africa has beautiful coastlines along the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.

Zanzibar, Seychelles, and Mauritius: The ideal periods to visit for a tropical holiday are between April and June and September and November when it is warm but not overly sticky.

Travel to South Africa‘s Cape Coast from November to March for sunny, warm beach days.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking

If you wish to visit the endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda, the best months to visit are between June and September and December and February. These are the drier months, and trekking becomes easier and more enjoyable.

Ideal Time for Cultural Celebrations

• Africa is rich in colorful festivals that reflect its rich culture.
  
  Timkat Festival (Ethiopia): January
  
  Lake of Stars Festival (Malawi): September
  
  Ouidah Voodoo Festival (Benin): January
  
  Cape Town Jazz Festival (South Africa): March/April
  

Best Time for Budget Travel For budget travelers, the ideal time to travel around Africa is during the shoulder season (March to May and October to November). Hotel prices and airfares are low, and sites are not crowded. 

The optimal time to travel to Africa varies with your travel plans. For safaris, it is best to go during dry seasons, whereas beach holidays are ideal during hot but not too hot months. If you seek cultural experiences, travel around important festivals. Whatever the time you choose, Africa has unforgettable experiences throughout the year! Contact your African Safari Kenya Specialist to book your safari to Africa.