Southern Africa When To Go
While Southern Africa is increasingly becoming a year-round destination, some months are better than other depending on your interests and needs.
Sabi Sands
Most travelers seeking “maximum” big game will want to visit during the height of the dry season, generally July-October.
Travelers seeking a unique safari experience may want to consider “the green season” which is generally December-March.
Travelers seeking the experience of “elite” camps yet desiring lower rates on our custom fly in safaris will want to contact us for special low season rates, generally the shoulder season and green season months.
February, March, and April may be the most challenging months to see the most big game except in certain specific regions, such as the Kalahari on our Green Desert expedition, which is the site of an impressive regional migration.
South Africa
The weather in southern Africa is generally pleasant throughout the year – warm to hot days, and cool to warm nights.
During the winter months however (May to September), it can get really cold at night and in the early morning, particularly when on safari, so we would like to suggest that you pack accordingly – very warm clothing including an anorak/winter jacket, a beanie, scarf and gloves are recommended. Please also refer to our packing suggestions list.
Summer is from November to the end of March and usually brings very high temperatures. It is also the rainy season and cloud coverage and rain can cool things down, although only usually for a short period of time.
The winter season begins in May and ends in August. This is also the dry season when virtually no rainfall occurs. Winter days are invariably sunny and cool to warm; however, evening and night temperatures can drop below freezing point in some areas.
The in-between periods – April/early May and September/October – still tend to be dry, but the days are cooler than in summer and the nights are warmer than in winter.
Whale season in South Africa is June-November, but September-October are the best.
Victoria Falls is better on the Zimbabwe side October-December (Zambia may have no water).
Botswana
SEASONS:
- Green: Jan-Mar
- Shoulder: Apr, Nov, Dec
- Peak: May-Oct
- Leroo La Tau: Migration Dec-Mar / Sleep Out dry season Jun-Oct
- Kalahari: Dec-Mar best / Nov, Apr Shoulder
Temperature (ºC) for Maun, Botswana – these are average lows and highs:
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | |
| 19/32 | 19/31 | 18/31 | 14/31 | 9/28 | 6/25 | |
| July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| 6/25 | 9/28 | 13/33 | 18/35 | 19/34 | 19/32 |
Average Rainfall (mm) for Maun, Botswana – this varies yearly and by location:
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | |
| 110 | 80 | 70 | 25 | 7 | 3 | |
| July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| 0 | 0 | 0 | 30 | 50 | 95 |
Victoria Falls
The Victoria Falls is phenomenal all year but keep in mind the kind of experience you want to have while visiting:
1. For Maximum Water Flow (March – May)
During this time, the falls are at their most powerful and impressive, with thick mist, a constant roaring sound, and frequent rainbows creating a truly dramatic atmosphere. It is the ideal period to experience the raw force of nature at its peak. However, visitors should be prepared to get completely soaked, and visibility of the falls can sometimes be limited due to the heavy spray.
2. For Balanced Views & Weather (June – August)
Water levels remain strong but with significantly less spray, allowing for clearer views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. The cooler, more comfortable temperatures also make it an enjoyable time to visit, and it is often considered the best all-round season to experience Victoria Falls.
3. For Activities & Clear Visibility (September – November)
Now at the lowest water levels, offering excellent visibility of the rock face and the dramatic gorge below. It is the best period for activities such as Devil’s Pool and white-water rafting, providing more adventurous and accessible experiences. While the flow of Victoria Falls is less dramatic, the increased accessibility allows visitors to explore and appreciate its geological features in greater detail.
Angel’s Pool is sometimes open into January.