May - October
The months from May through to October are generally the autumn and winter months in or African destinations. Since inland safari areas generally receive their rainfall from summer thundershowers, this means these months are also the drier months, and conditions are cool and pleasant all round.
WILDLIFE SAFARIS BETWEEN MAY AND OCTOBER
These drier months are the best time to go on a safari in Africa for excellent viewing of big game. Little rainfall during the winter allows the bush and grasses to thin out, making spotting and tracking of game notably easier at this time of year. Whilst conditions for wildlife survival are visibly harsher during the winter, the lack of water at this time of year also drives animals toward rivers and waterholes, where they can be more easily found as they congregate in search of much needed drinking water.
EAST AFRICA AND THE GREAT MIGRATION
In East Africa, the herds of Wildebeest of the great game migration make their way northward in search of water, moving into the northern Serengeti and then into the Ma'asai Mara in Kenya after the end of the long rainfalls that take place during the earlier months of this period. Once the longer rainfalls come to an end, temperatures are mild, conditions pleasant, and wildlife plentiful with sightings of particularly large herds to be expected. This season is also the season for some of the more famous scenes of the migration crossing the Grumeti and Mara Rivers, so position yourself well for this.
THE ULTIMATE TIME TO EXPERIENCE BOTSWANA
Moving to southern Africa, these are very much the premium months for viewing of game in the Okavango Delta, Selinda, Linyanti and Chobe National Park areas of Botswana. During these months, the floodwaters arrive from the highlands of Angola and spread out across the delta, and this high water season is a great season for animal action here (as well as boating and canoeing on the Delta) and the drier, cooler climate with very few mosquitoes makes for a very comfortable time with exciting wildlife experiences. If you are hoping to see lion prides hunting buffalo in two feet of water, this is the month to do it! Toward the end of this season, game viewing conditions are at their peak in this area.
SOUTH AFRICA
Albeit slightly cooler, these months are also the best for game viewing in the Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand and Timbavati game reserves in South Africa. Temperatures are moderately cool, there are no afternoon thundershowers, game is easier to spot, and this only improves as the winter moves on toward September. This is also a good time to visit KwaZulu Natal, as the tropical climate here means it can get wet during the summer.
MILD DESERT VACATIONS
To experience milder conditions in otherwise very hot and arid countries, the Etosha Pan in northern Namibia can also be visited at this time of year, when it is less humid than during the summer months. Whilst the breathtaking experiences around Sossusvlei and Namibrand in Namibia can be enjoyed all year, the spring months between August and October are excellent months to visit, for more moderate temperatures, hiking, clear skies, and outstanding photography opportunities.
A WINDOW FOR GORILLA TREKKING
There are two windows during the year when one can experience the best conditions for gorilla trekking in the highlands of Rwanda or Uganda, and the month or two after the end of the longer rainfall season, which sees heavy rainfall in the mountaineous gorilla habitats, forms one of those windows. Conditions at this time make for accessible and comfortable trekking.
Our recommendations at this time of year:
Malilangwe: The Jewel Of Zimbabwe
5 Days
From US$9 820 ppRetreat into luxury at Singita Pamushana, where 6 exquisite suites are perched on the mountain top above some of Zimbabwe’s wildest secluded...
Laid Back & Lavish In South Africa
14 Days
From US$13 270 pp.We begin our journey on a relaxed note and head straight to the Garden Route, where we soak up the gentle atmosphere created by pristine beaches and...
Follow Your Heart Through The Delta
8 Days
P.O.AExperience a safari from the point of view of the wildlife as we make our way on a whim through the winding waterways of the Okavango Delta by...
A Stylish Retreat: Cape Town, Sabi Sand & Victoria Falls
9 Days
From US$16 960 pp.Discover South Africa’s rich history with a 3-night stay at the V&A Waterfront in the spectacular hub of Cape Town, then venture into the Sabi Sand...
The Deep Sweet South
8 Days
From US$9 230 ppTravel well off the beaten track to reconnect with yourself and nature in exclusive, nourishing luxury. As you walk through the bush, take a...
Boats, Balloons, Desserts & Wildlife
12 Days
P.O.ACompletely immerse yourself in the land of extremes as we journey from the barren and moon-like deserts of the NamibRand through the dunes of the...
Sustainable Living in Tanzania
10 Days
From US$11 430 ppDiscover the charm of simplistic living at some of Tanzania’s finest nature-orientated lodges. Walk through the open wilderness in Tarangire...
Absolute Luxury In Tanzania & Rwanda
12 Days
P.O.ADiscover the beauty of Tanzania and Rwanda in true comfort with your privately chartered helicopter. The contrasting landscapes of the wide open...
Waterways, Cats, and Exciting Adventures
9 Days
From US$10 985 pp.Take some time out to explore famous waterways by boat, see large cats in action at the height of the game-viewing season, and conquer the mighty...
The Best of the Best in Tanzania
7 Days
From US$16 235 pp.Stay at our handpicked collection of the finest safari lodges in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro...
The Best of Singita Grumeti and the Ngorongoro Crater
10 Days
From US$16 940 pp.Stay at our handpicked collection of the finest safari lodges and camps in The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater...
Game Migration and the Ngorongoro
7 Days
From US$11 560 pp.See Africa's greatest game migration and the expansive Ngorongoro crater on this balanced safari through northern Tanzania...
A Historic Rail Journey, Predator Cats & Victoria Falls
13 Days
From US$25 490 pp.Head deep into Southern Africa for the most exclusive and timeless pleasures.
Vast Open Spaces & New Experiences
9 Days
From US$16 085 pp.In this Safari we venture far off the beaten track, to take in some of the least inhabited parts of the planet, and some of the most famous wildlife...
Exploring Botswana's Most Luxurious
9 Days
From US$27 480 pp.This is the quintessential luxury Botswana safari, exploring some of the most prized locations on offer...
The Road Less Travelled: An Exotic Journey
12 Days
from US$12 325 pp.Embrace the peace and tranquility of the vast distances of the Namibian wilderness on this exotic and varied safari, through a land less travelled…
A Botswana Migration Routes Expedition
11 Days
From US$12 710 pp.An expedition through the heartlands of northern Botswana used by the game in their migration, taking in the waterways of the Okavango Delta, the...
Romance and Magnetic Enchantment
8 Days
From US$20 295 pp.Celebrate in style on this safari, inspired by intimacy and adventure at the height of the wildlife action across northern Botswana.
Our Diverse Namibian Overland Adventure
10 Days
From US$10 335 pp.An exciting overland driving safari, this epic journey takes in the diversity and expansiveness of a fascinating and unique country that has much to...
Hwange, Mana Pools & Victoria Falls
9 days
From US$14 425 pp.From the savannah woodlands to the mighty Zambezi river- experience Africa's wildlife at some of Zimbabwe's premier lodges.
Central Zambia: Kafue and the Busanga Plains
7 Days
From US$10 985 pp.On this safari we head deep into the heart of Zambia get in amongst some wild game and then spend 2 nights on the river banks at Victoria Falls...
The Best of Chyulu Hills and the Ma'asai Mara
8 Days
From US$10 775 pp.Explore a wild ranch in the Chyulu Hills of southern Kenya, and then immerse yourself in the planet's greatest wildlife migration.
An East African Royal Tented Safari
12 Days
From US$18 500 pp.Sneak away to a destination where you can fully immerse yourself nature in complete privacy...
An East African Safari & Seychelles Beach Paradise
9 Days
From US$9 865 pp.Safari in the exciting landscapes and among the wildlife of the Maasai Mara, then retreat to the white sand beaches and tranquil waters of the...
A Wildlife Safari Under African Stars
8 Days
From US$23 340 pp.This easy paced romantic sojourn allows you to spend your entire celebration immersed in the tranquil heartland of South Africa’s wildlife...
A Wildlife Photographic Expedition to Botswana
8 Days
From US$19 350 pp.For enthusiasts who want to get serious about taking their photography to the next level, this safari is tailored to suit serious photographers. It...
A Private Family Escape to Tanzania & The Seychelles
15 Days
P. O. A.A family safari and beach holiday centred around experiencing the beauty of these locations in complete privacy, with minimum disruption and maximum...
A Luxury Safari for a Close Group, in Namibia
7 Days
From US$12 340 pp.Explore the diversity of a country untouched by so many - In this safari we see the diversity of Namibia as we travel through the luxuries of the...
A Fully Private Family Vacation in Tanzania
10 Days
From US$26 810 pp.Escape in complete privacy with your family on an exclusive luxury lodge-based safari in northern Tanzania...
A Flying Adventure for 2 in Southern Africa
24 Days
P. O. A.Set off an adventurous journey in your own private plane across Southern Africa, taking in the diversity of the area and enjoying its luxurious...
A Family Safari in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve
8 Days
From US$8 955 pp.This safari is convenient and hassle free, without too much moving around with your family, so that you too can have the holiday you deserve...
A Family Adventure in Kenya
7 Days
From US$10 815 pp.An easy-going family safari through Kenya that takes you through three of Kenya’s iconic wildlife areas…
A Diverse Adventure: Ma'asai Mara and Bwindi
8 Days
From US$8 265 pp.In this itinerary we take in two experiences very different to each other, making for a diverse and exciting week…
A Tribal Safari & Beach Journey on the Southern African Coast
8 Days
From US$10 360 pp.Take a scenic helicopter to one of Southern Mozambique's most pristine beach resorts, then continue to South Africato make your African memories on a...
The Finest of Makgadikgadi & The Okavango
9 Days
From US$29 380 pp.This is a quintessential luxury Botswana safari, exploring some of the most prized locations on offer...
Happiness in Waves - A Dream Mozambican Beach Break
5 Days
From US$5 315 pp.Take a private helicopter to one of Mozambique's most pristine beach islands to experience the very best of Benguerra Island's luxurious seaside...
Aligned with Angels - A Journey of Primate Discovery
5 Days
From US$12 725 pp.Ponder the roots of mankind and our place in the natural world by coming face-to-face with our closest relatives...
The Very Best of The Ma'asai Mara and the Serengeti
10 Days
From US$16 885 pp.On this journey we use a single trip to explore two key areas, making the most of the time you have available..
Discovering Primates & Plains Game in Rwanda and The Serengeti
10 Days
From US$18 760 pp.Tick a once-in-a-lifetime experience box as you get up close and personal with Rwanda's mountain gorillas, then create spectacular memories of Africa...
A Decadent Southern Africa Safari & Beach Sojourn
8 Days
From US$14 350 pp.Immerse yourself in the big 5 wildlife on a luxury Kruger safari, then take a private helicopter to one of Mozambique's most pristine beach islands...
Tranquil Souls, Tropical Islands and East African Savannahs
10 Days
From US$17 770 pp.Feel the thrill of Africa's Big 5 wildlife beneath on the savannahs of East Africa, and then relax in the ultimate luxury at Vamizi Island in...
Plains, Primates and Forest Canopies – A Rwanda Journey
9 Days
P.O.ANavigate the hilly landscapes with ease in the comfort of your own privately chartered helicopter as you explore the three adventurous corners of...
Desert and Delta, Opulence and Wilderness
15 Days
US$37 140 pp.In this safari - which spans across vast distances in two fascinating countries - we add some time in the ancient desert to some of the very best...
Classic Zambia Highlights: A Safari plus Victoria Falls
11 Days
From US$9 400 pp.Head off the beaten track to admire the natural beauty and wildlife of this fast-emerging destination...
Our Precious Moments Rwanda Safari
7 Days
From US$7 820 pp.Classic safari landscapes and wildlife mark the start of this journey across Rwanda, which takes you through Akagera known for its untouched beauty...
The Hidden Gems Of Zimbabwe
7 Days
From US$5 890 ppTake a step off the beaten track and discover the hidden gems of Zimbabwe - a country with much to offer for the adventurous at heart. Get up close...
A Mini-Break At Singita Pamushana
5 Days
From US$11 540 pp.Step into the heart of Africa, a wilderness so vast and open it takes your breath away. Malilangwe, part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier National...
Laid Back & Lazy: Victoria Falls, Lake Kariba & Mana Pools
10 Days
From US$8 565 ppTake your time exploring the quieter corners of Zambia and Zimbabwe, and you’ll be well rewarded by the magic of Africa. Unwind in the lush bush...
A Private Retreat: Mana Pools & The Okavango Delta
9 Days
From US$16 370 pp.Experience peace and tranquility as you journey through quiet national parks and private concessions in two different countries. Walk amongst the...
A Sensory Journey: Mozambique To Botswana
11 Days
From USD$18 185 pp.Set your senses free on the soft white sands of Benguerra Island as you feel the sand between your toes, feast on gourmet meals and delicious fine...
Beaches, Sunsets, Leopards & Whalesharks
12 Days
From US$13 465 pp.On this journey you soak up the spectacular city views from the top of Cape Town’s mountain tops, spot a leopard or two in the softening riverbeds...
Zimbabwe's Boutique Natural Beauty
9 Days
From US$14 625 pp.Head off on a journey through the quiet concessions of Zimbabwe’s frontier wilderness. This journey is all about stays at smaller tented camps,...
A Journey Through Victoria Falls, The Kruger & Mozambique
9 Days
From US$11 935 ppFrom thundering waterfalls to dreamy walks on the beach, magical diving experiences and larger than life wildlife sightings, this adventurous private...
Spirit Of Adventure: Safari & Seychelles
13 days
From USD 16 000 ppExperience Africa with the spirit of adventure as you pull your bed outside and sleep under the stars, feel the exhilaration of a horseback ride as...
Stylish Simplicity in Hwange, Victoria Falls & Botswana
9 Days
From US$8 125 pp.This simplistic safari across two countries is rustic, adventurous and packed with wildlife sightings and all the comforts offered by luxurious...
The Ulitimate Treat: The Seychelles,Kenya & Cape Town
18 Days
From US$37 000 pp.On this, the ultimate private journey covering the Seychelles and Africa, step into the soft, powdery sands of paradise where turquoise waters gently...
Walking The Serengeti Plains
6 Days
From US$5 745 pp.Experience the playground of the Serengeti in a new and inspiring way. With a uniquely simple approach, you’ll get to explore the vast open plains...
A Short Discovery of Forests, Gorges, Rivers and Culture
7 Days
From US$7 470 pp.In this itinerary we explore a range of different experiences in Western Uganda, some very different to each other, making for a varied, active and...
An East African Hiking, Cultural, Safari & Primate Trekking Treat
16 Days
From US$23 050 ppIn this slightly longer 16-day itinerary, we focus on outdoor hiking activities and cultural experiences as an educational treat across East Africa,...