When To Go To Africa?

You will hear different opinions about the best time to go on your trip, however remember that people travel all year long to all of the places on this website. There are advantages for all seasons, so if you have certain dates to travel, most likely you can have a good trip regardless of where you go. It is vital to know what the seasons are and how your trip will be affected; nevertheless, remember that the weather can be different and there is a possibility that some time may go by with no rain when it is the rainy season, and it could just as easily rain and thunder when it is supposed to be a dry season. Game viewing is usually best done during the drier seasons. The road conditions are better in dry weather and in the wintertime, the weather is mild in the daytime. Game move near the limited water sources during dry spells, and thinner foliage allows the animals to be found. While these dry season conditions are excellent for viewing game, remember that it is also the time when there are the most visitors at the properties, game reserves and parks. When thinking about limited areas, more private, safari camps and lodges, you should sign up well in advance, particularly for June through October trips.

EAST AND CENTRAL AFRICA

The long rains start in the beginning of April until the beginning of June, but the brief rainy period lasts from the end of November until December. It usually costs less during the rainy seasons to travel. Dry seasons offer a clearer view with dependable road conditions, and animals usually gather near the limited water sources, making them easier to see. East Africa’s busiest times are generally in July and August, with comfortable weather. Also, this is a favorite time for worldwide travel, so be certain to make plans well in advance. There are more tourists in December, so look for extra holiday charges and limited vacancies. The movements of the migrating wildebeest affect the desirability of certain areas at particular times in the Masai Mara and Serengeti, and that may have an effect on your itinerary, choices or costs.

SOUTHERN AFRICA

From late November through mid-April it is the rainy season in the safari regions. This means that thunderstorms are likely during the afternoons. However, at that time, it is summer at the southern Cape and coastline of South Africa, which are great places to visit. In June, July and August, which is their wintertime, this area can be cold and rainy also. Because high season rates frequently begin in July, sometimes it is possible to save some money by traveling during the shoulder season, just before the high season begins. Wonderful months for traveling would be May and June. In December, there are many tourists (such as summer school vacation mixed with crowded holiday traffic), so watch out for holiday surcharges, busy beaches and general limited availability. In South Africa, the safari camps and lodges are not as spacious, so you need to schedule well in advance, especially for trips between June and September.

INDIAN OCEAN ISLANDS

Usually the weather is very much the same as the weather in southern Africa. Summer rains last from November through April and cyclones occur sometimes during that time-frame. The perfect time is during the dry season, which is from May to October.

6 Responses to “When To Go To Africa?”

1. africana says:

   June 24, 2010 at 3:57 pm

   I have never been to Africa but it’s on my to-do list

   Reply