Best Time to Visit Southern Africa

(And Why There’s No Single “Perfect” Season)

One of the most common questions we get from European travelers is:
“When is the best time to visit Southern Africa?”

The honest answer?
👉 There isn’t just one best time.

Southern Africa is a year-round destination — but every season offers a different experience. The key is matching the season to your travel style, expectations and priorities.

Below, we break it down clearly and honestly.

Understanding the Seasons (Southern vs European)

First, an important thing to remember:

European summer = Southern African winter

European winter = Southern African summer

That means when Europe is cold and grey, Southern Africa is often warm, green and alive.

Dry Season | May – September

(European late spring to summer)

Why travelers love it

This is often considered the classic safari season.

Pros

Excellent wildlife viewing

Animals gather around water sources

Fewer mosquitoes

Pleasant daytime temperatures

Ideal for first-time safari travelers

Cons

Peak season → higher prices

Popular areas can feel busier

Landscapes are drier and less green

Nights and early mornings can be cold (especially June–August)

👉 Best for:
First-time visitors, photographers, and travelers wanting classic game drives.

Green Season | October – April

(European autumn to spring)

Often overlooked — and unfairly so.

Pros

Lush, green landscapes

Dramatic skies and sunsets

Baby animals & birdlife (especially Jan–Mar)

Fewer tourists

Better value and more availability

A more intimate, authentic feel

Cons

Short, heavy rain showers (mostly afternoons)

Wildlife can be more spread out

Higher humidity in some regions

Malaria precautions needed in certain areas

👉 Best for:
Repeat visitors, photographers, nature lovers, and travelers seeking space and atmosphere.

Shoulder Seasons | April–May & September–October

(Highly underrated)

Pros

Balance between wildlife viewing and landscapes

Comfortable temperatures

Fewer crowds

Excellent value

Great mix of safari, coast and culture

Cons

Weather can be less predictable

Some lodges may close briefly for maintenance

👉 Best for:
Travelers who want the best of both worlds.

So… When Is the Best Time?

The best time to visit Southern Africa depends on:

What you want to see

How you like to travel

Whether you prefer lush or dry landscapes

Your budget and flexibility

School holidays and time off in Europe

There is no bad season — only a season that suits you better than another.

Our Honest Advice

At LoWes Africa, we don’t believe in selling one “perfect” month.

We believe in:

Listening first

Designing journeys around you

Matching destinations and experiences to the right season

Some of our guests fall in love with the golden dry bush.
Others never want to travel outside the green season again.

Both are right.

Planning Your African Journey

Southern Africa rewards those who travel with intention.

Whether you dream of:

A classic safari

A quieter, greener experience

Or something in between

At Lowes Africa we help you to design your journey and choose the right time for travel to Southern Africa for you— not the most popular one.

Every journey starts with a dream – start your journey with Lowes Africa.