SOUTH AFRICA - We have four distinct seasons—summer, fall, winter, and spring—only they are flipped from the seasons in the Northern Hemisphere. South Africa has a lovely temperate climate with hot summers and mild winters. Winter (May to August) Across South Africa’s reserves, winter signals the dry season and the best time to go on safari. Days are mild with plenty of sunshine, however, temperatures often drop in the early mornings and late afternoons – so pack a warm jacket. If you’re spending time in Cape Town, you may see some rain in between the crisp, cool winter days. Summer (October to March) Cape Town is best in the summer months of October to March. Temperatures can get well into the 30° Celsius range (perfect beach weather!). Summer is the dry season in Cape Town, however, it is the wet season in South Africa’s reserves. Summer rains usually come down in short afternoon thunderstorms, and the landscapes turn lush and green.

BOTSWANA - During the dry winter season months between May and October, the bush is at its thinnest and the animals head towards the rivers and the Okavango Delta. The dry winter months are also the most comfortable time to visit as the days are warm and nights are cool, the rains have passed and there are less mosquitos.

East Africa KENYA - Summer The most popular months are January and February when the weather is hot and dry and the wildlife tends to congregate around waterholes. The Migration From June/ July to October the Migration takes place and it’s an extremely busy (and exciting!) time to visit. Winter/ Rainy season During the long rains from March to May travel isn’t recommended. TANZANIA - Summer The most popular months are January and February when the weather is hot and dry and the wildlife tends to congregate around waterholes. The Migration From June to October, the Migration takes place and it’s an extremely busy (and exciting!) time to visit. Rainy season During the long rains (March to May) travel isn’t recommended. RWANDA - Dry season(s) For gorilla trekking, we recommend travelling during one of Rwanda’s two dry seasons: mid-June to September or December to February. Rainy season(s) For chimpanzee trekking, the rainy season produces lush greenery so chimps move about less and are easier to track. The short rainy season – October and November – is great for birding and photography. Rains normally come down in short, heavy bursts. During the long rains – March to mid-June – gorilla trekking can be tough and muddy. UGANDA - Dry Seasons (mid-December to February / June to September) Gorillas can be seen at any time of year. However, since gorilla trekking tends to involve steep slopes and thick mud it is more comfortable to travel in one of Uganda’s two dry seasons. Remember that the gorillas do live in rainforest so conditions will still be humid and wet. And don’t forget your gaiters!

ZAMBIA - The Zambian weather is mild and pleasant. It’s in the tropics but has a high altitude between 1200m and 1500m above sea level. The three seasons are distinct: April – August: Cool and dry (the most popular season) September – November: Warm and dry December – March: Warm and wet ZIMBABWE - Zimbabwe is an all-year destination with its warm, mild weather. Winter (May – September) Winter in Zimbabwe is warm with sunshine in the day, and cold, clear nights. It’s a great time to visit Zimbabwe as there’s little rain and animals congregate around waterholes, making it easier to spot wildlife. Note: September can already be very hot and dry. Summer/ Rainy Season (October – April) Zimbabwe’s summer is the rainy season, which is beautiful with sporadic rain and dramatic thunderstorms. Many animals give birth in the rainy season so it’s a good time to see newborns. It’s also the low season, so you will see fewer tourists.

NAMIBIA - Summer (October – April) Summer rains usually start in November and last until April, turning the country green. It’s very hot during the day, and warm at night. Winter (May – September) The dry winter months are the best time to visit Namibia for game viewing. Winter means clear skies, and animals are concentrated around water holes and pans due to the scarcity of water. It’s warm during the day but freezing at night.