Imagine trading the cold, snow and gloomy, grey skies for endless sunshine, warmth, adventure, wild landscapes, and stunning wildlife encounters. When the northern hemisphere winter arrives, East and southern Africa is at its best.  Booking a safari between January and April, summer months in Africa, offers many benefits that make it one of the best times to experience an unforgettable African adventure. Whether you’re seeking remote wilderness, fewer crowds, or unique wildlife viewing opportunities, here’s why you should consider a summer safari in Africa, with the added bonus of escaping winter back home.

Unique Wildlife Encounters

• Baby Animals and Predator Activity:  During the summer months, the availability of water and food makes it an ideal time for many animals to give birth.  Safari-goers can witness young animals including wildebeest calves, zebra foals, and impala fawns as they take their first few steps.  This burst of new life also heightens predator activity, as lions, cheetahs, and other big cats take advantage of the abundance of vulnerable young animals.
• Birdwatching Extravaganza: Africa’s summer months are a haven for birdwatchers, as migratory birds from Europe and other regions flock to the continent. The lush greenery and plentiful water attract a wide array of bird species, many of which are in breeding plumage, providing an exceptional birdwatching experience.
• Action-Packed Game Drives: Although the bush is thicker in summer, the abundance of wildlife means there is plenty of opportunity to witness exciting interactions. The season’s unpredictable weather patterns, such as brief afternoon thunderstorms, can also generate activity resulting in fantastic wildlife sightings. It is fascinating to see how wildlife reacts to the changing and sometimes unpredictable weather conditions, including the occasional dramatic thunderstorms. This is all part of the life cycle and essential to the sustainability of biodiversity.
• Waterholes and Rivers in Full Flow: Rivers, lakes, and waterholes are brimming with water during this time, providing a lifeline for the region’s wildlife. Watching animals gather around these water sources offers incredible wildlife viewing and dramatic scenes of predator-prey interactions.

Fewer Tourists, More Intimate Experiences

• Less Crowded Parks and Lodges: Summer is considered the “green season” in many safari destinations, and because it falls outside the typical peak tourist periods, you’ll find fewer crowds. This means more exclusive, intimate wildlife viewing opportunities and a sense of peace and quiet that can sometimes be harder to find during busier times.
• Better Lodge Availability: Since fewer people are traveling during this season, you can often secure more sought-after accommodations or even benefit from seasonal discounts. The more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere enhances your overall safari experience.

Lush Green Landscapes, Breathtaking African Sunsets, Dramatic Skies = Photographer’s Paradise

• Green Season’s Scenic Splendor: Africa’s summer rains transform the landscape into a lush, verdant paradise. Grassy plains are full of life, trees are in full bloom, and the air is clear and crisp.
• Incredible Summer Skies: Africa’s summer skies are breathtaking. Rain clouds create stunning sunsets, and the vivid hues of pink, orange, and purple are unmatched. After the rain, the air clears, leaving behind crisp, vibrant skies perfect for stargazing and night photography.
• Photography Opportunities: The softer light in summer, coupled with the vibrant landscapes and dramatic weather patterns, makes this a photographer’s paradise. Photographers love this time for capturing vivid, colorful shots of the African wilderness, and the dramatic skies provide the perfect backdrop for stunning images.  Whether it’s a herd of elephants silhouetted against a sunset or the sight of birds in flight, the photographic possibilities are endless.

Seasonal Value and Special Offers

• Lower Rates: Many lodges and safari operators offer reduced rates during the summer season, providing exceptional value for travelers seeking luxury experiences at a lower cost. This is an excellent opportunity to experience high-end lodges, private game reserves, and tailormade safaris without the premium prices often associated with the high season.
• Special Packages: Many lodges offer “stay longer, pay less” packages or family-friendly deals during the green season. These can include additional nights, free activities, or spa treatments, enhancing your overall safari experience while staying within budget.

Conservation and Sustainable Travel Impact

• Support Local Communities Year-Round: By traveling in the off-peak season, you are supporting local economies and conservation efforts outside the peak tourist period. This helps maintain year-round employment for guides, lodge staff, and conservation teams, ensuring the ongoing protection of Africa’s wildlife and ecosystems.
• Lower Environmental Impact: Fewer visitors during the green season means less strain on the environment and resources, allowing for a more sustainable and eco-friendly travel experience.

With fewer travelers and more availability, traveling in winter is a great time to maximize the value of a customized safari itinerary. Whether you’re aiming to explore multiple destinations, indulge in extended stays at select camps, or enrich your itinerary with adventure, culinary, or cultural activities, many operators offer enhanced flexibility and exceptional value during this travel period, often through special rates or added experiences.  So before the snow piles up at home, consider a first time or repeat visit to Africa. Our ‘high touch’, customized, step-by-step approach to planning safaris is why our clients keep coming back for more! We make the time consuming task of trip planning an easy and enjoyable process for you. Call us on 800-700-3677 to talk with our team of award wining safari specialists.