When to Go on Safari

Two dry seasons: Jan–Feb (short) and Jun–Oct (long). Long rains Apr–May, short rains Nov–Dec.

Dry season Jun–Oct is ideal. Short rains Nov–Dec, long rains Mar–May. Jan–Mar warm and dry in south Serengeti.

Two dry seasons: Jun–Sep and Dec–Feb. Best gorilla trekking in dry periods when trails are less muddy.

Dry seasons Jun–Sep and Dec–Feb. Gorilla trekking is possible year-round but trails are easier in the dry.

Dry season May–Oct. Delta flood arrives Jun–Aug, pushing wildlife to islands. Hot and wet Nov–Apr.

Dry season May–Oct is best for game viewing — sparse vegetation and animals gather at waterholes. Wet season Nov–Apr is lush but good for birding.

Dry season May–Oct best for Etosha. Very dry Jun–Sep — animals crowd waterholes. Wet season Nov–Mar for dune landscapes.

Dry season May–Oct best for Hwange — waterhole game viewing excellent. Victoria Falls most dramatic Mar–May (peak flow).

Dry season May–Oct best; peak Aug–Oct when animals concentrate at the Luangwa River. Wet Nov–Apr — some camps close.

Best travel Oct–Mar (dry season). Short rains Feb–Mar in south. Heavy rains Jun–Sep make highlands muddy.

Best May–Nov (dry, lower humidity). Whale sharks peak Oct–Nov. Dec–Mar wet season with tropical rain and cyclone risk.