When it comes to memorable travel, a South African safari consistently ranks as one of the top bucket-list destinations in the world. The best time to visit South Africa largely depends on what animals you want to see and the areas you want to explore.
With an abundance of wildlife, breathtaking backdrops and scenery guaranteed to make sure you fall in love with the country, you won’t be disappointed with whatever destination you choose to visit.
Before we look at the best time to visit South Africa on safari, here’s why South Africa is the best safari destination in the world.
Which country has the best safaris?
A safari is a must-do travel experience for any intrepid traveller or anyone with an inner wanderlust that needs to be quenched! However, in order to get the best out of your safari holiday, it takes careful planning and some insider knowledge – better still if you can go with a local guide.
It’s universally agreed, that South Africa is the best safari destination in the world. Home to a diverse ecosystem and exotic wildlife (including the big five animals), vast stretches of savanna, and glorious sunshine – it’s a year-round destination enjoyed by millions of tourists annually.
We might be biased, but we believe South Africa has the best safaris in the world. You have Kruger National Park – a truly magical place, home to the Big 5 and more species of large mammals than any other African game reserve.
For memorable trips, priceless photographs and marvelling at the beauty of the natural world and the animals that inhabit it, Kruger National Park has it all.
At two million hectares, Kruger National Park is also one of the largest national parks in the world. For a truly authentic safari experience, local guide and man of the bush, Graham Cooke, is the guide you want. Graham will take you on a unique journey, determined by the ‘signs of the wild’; meaning that no two experiences are the same. Graham will help you observe the Big 5 in their natural habitat and your safari will be an assault on the sense – offering a memorable and highly sensory experience.
Manyeleti Game Reserve shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park. Known for its open savanna, dense riverine vegetation and the Big 5, this 200km park provides a great safari experience and will leave a lasting impression. Manyeleti is easy to access from Mpfuvu Manor and is well known for predator and elephant sightings. Also bordering Kruger National Park sits Sabi Sands, an ideal location for those who want an incredible safari experience without the crowds.
We’ve mentioned just a couple of game reserves and parks, the list is much longer and to find out the areas we explore from Mpfuvu Manor, head this way.
So whether it’s your first or fifth time on safari, let’s find out what time of year is best to visit South Africa on safari.
Our handy guide on the best time to visit South Africa on safari:
With an abundance of wildlife, breathtaking backdrops and scenery guaranteed to make sure you fall in love with the country, you won’t be disappointed when you visit South Africa.
We’re based in the Limpopo region of South Africa, a northern province. Our guide to South Africa’s seasons and the best time to visit is based on visiting this region of the country.
As we’re observing animals in the wild we cannot guarantee that you will see every animal on your wish list. Our experienced guides will take you to the best places to try and see wildlife as well as advise on the best time of year to visit depending on what you’d like to see. Please contact us for more information.
Spring – September to November
September and November are spring in South Africa. The heat is building, and rain is starting to replenish the vegetation.
Many animals give birth in early spring (September) and the warmer mornings will be welcome on morning safaris and excursions. By November, vegetation is becoming denser making wildlife a bit harder to spot.
Summer – December to February
December to February is summer in South Africa and this is the best time for bird watching. January and February can be wet with frequent downpours in the afternoons. The height of the rainy season means vegetation is blooming.
In January many birds rear their young which makes this a prime time for birdwatching.
Autumn – March to May
Between March and May is autumn in South Africa and the hot, rainy weather has cleared. Cooler temperatures present the opportunity for bushwalking and longer safari trips.
Animals are more active during this time and the change of season means the vegetation is thinning making the animals easier to spot. We cannot guarantee you will see leopards when on safari with us but if they’re on your list to see, this is the best time of year to try.
Winter – June to August
Winter happens between June and August in South Africa. This is a great time to do some serious wildlife watching. The days are dry and temperatures are in the mid to low twenties. A dry climate means the wildlife reserves provide a good opportunity to watch a range of wildlife.
Animals gather around waterholes which, when you know their favourite spots to go to, increases your chances of seeing them.
There are so many good reasons to book a safari holiday and our team will happily guide you through the best time to visit South Africa on safari depending on the wildlife you’d like to see.
When you come to South Africa on safari with us, you’ll have the opportunity to see wild animals in their natural habitat, be able to sleep out under the stars, take a hot air balloon ride over the savanna and immerse yourself in nature in the most beautiful surroundings. The sights, smells and sounds, all come to life before your eyes, making a South African safari one of the most memorable trips you’ll ever take.
Experience the safari of a lifetime
Enjoy the unspoilt wilderness on our intimate safaris from Mpfuvu Manor.
