Most advice reduces this to “go in the dry season”. That is true enough to be useless. Below is every month in all eight destinations, rated for game viewing, with what the season actually looks like once you are there.
| Destination | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Botswana | ||||||||||||
| Tanzania | ||||||||||||
| Kenya | ||||||||||||
| South Africa |
Select any month to see what that season actually looks like on the ground.
Peak is not the same as best.
Peak months deliver the most reliable game viewing and cost the most, and the headline parks fill with vehicles. Shoulder months trade a little visibility for materially lower rates and quieter reserves. Green season is the connoisseur’s choice: harder spotting, extraordinary light, newborn animals, and prices that can be half of August.
Once you know your month, see what it costs: the estimator prices each season directly, or compare the eight destinations side by side.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month for an African safari?
For dry-season game viewing across our eight destinations, August and September are the strongest overall. But the honest answer depends on the country: Tanzania's southern Serengeti peaks in January and February for calving, while Botswana's Okavango flood peaks around June to August.
Is it worth going in green season?
Often, yes. Green season — roughly November to April depending on the country — brings lower rates, dramatic skies, newborn animals and far fewer vehicles. The trade-offs are thicker bush, harder spotting and some camps closing entirely.
When can I see the Great Migration river crossings?
Roughly July to October on the Kenyan side of the Mara River. Crossings are not scheduled events — herds move with rainfall, and a crossing can happen days from when it is expected. Anyone guaranteeing you a crossing on a given date is selling, not advising.
Which months should I avoid?
April is the weakest month across most of the circuit — long rains close camps in Tanzania and Kenya and make roads difficult. South Africa is the exception; April is one of its better months.
Tell us when you can travel.
Most people pick the country first and discover the month is wrong. Give us your dates and we will tell you where they work — and where they do not.
Find my safari