South Africa

We are often asked when the best time is to go to South Africa. Anytime! South Africa is a year-round destination that lends itself to beach-and-bush combos and multi-generational travel options to suit varied expectations.

South Africa's safari seasons

There are two weather patterns to consider:

Bushveld - Kruger National Park, Greater Kruger and Madikwe Game Reserve

Expect hot, wet summers (November to March) and cool, dry winters (April to October). Rainfall tends to occur during brief thunderstorms in the late afternoon or evening. Temperatures will vary between 20–40 degrees Celsius in summer and 10–25 degrees in winter (with close-to-freezing temperatures sometimes, especially in higher-lying areas). November can be especially hot and humid, with relief when the first rains arrive.

Best time to visit: For avid safari fans, the best safari weather is when water and plant cover are scarce, making it easier to find and see animals - April to October. Of those months, the later, the better - with August to October and even early November delivering the best wildlife encounters.

Western Cape - Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route

The Western Cape has a Mediterranean climate, so expect hot, dry summers (November to March) and cold, wet winters (April to October). Temperatures will vary between 15–32 degrees Celsius in summer (up to 40 degrees now and then, especially inland) and 0–20 degrees in winter (snow in high-lying areas). This is the southern tip of Africa, so expect the odd freak weather system in summer, bringing rain and lower temperatures.

Best time to visit: For the warmest weather and best vibe, visit during the festive season (December to February) - but popular beaches and restaurants may be busy.

Bush and beach - the sweet spot

As you can see, bush or beach aficionados may visit South Africa at different times of the year. For those wanting to combine bush and beach, the sweet spot to aim for is either October to early November or March to April - the so-called ‘shoulder’ seasons.

South Africa is home to the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), plus cheetah, wild dog, striped hyena, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra and rare and seldom-seen species such as pangolin, aardvark and serval.

The dry northwestern region of South Africa hosts arid-adapted species such as brown hyena, oryx, springbok, bat-eared fox and families of habituated meerkats. The coastal areas, especially near Cape Town, are good for watching penguins, migrating southern right, humpback, Bryde's, sei, and killer whales, as well as dolphins and seals.

YES, South Africa is safe for tourists. While there are crime hotspots in South Africa, they tend to be in cities or near informal settlement areas. South Africa is no different to the rest of the world - if you plan to spend time in a city, take precautions as you would in your home country.

Petty theft is common in cities, but physical attacks on tourists are rare. Crime rates in rural areas - where you will spend most of your time - are far lower and almost non-existent in wildlife reserves.

Safety tips for cities:

• Don’t wander around the streets after dark.

• Ask your hotel about unsafe areas and avoid them.

• Leave expensive jewellery at home and wear a cheap plastic watch.

• Don’t carry cameras and video cameras in full view.

• Keep your money and passport in a money belt, out of sight, or in the lodge or hotel safe.

• Dress like a local, or at least casually.

• Use your cell phone discreetly and not while driving.

Please get in touch with your local GP or travel clinic well before your trip to obtain professional medical advice and discuss up-to-date vaccination requirements for the areas you will visit. 

Yellow fever

South Africa is not a yellow fever country, so a yellow fever vaccine is not mandatory. However, if you are entering South Africa from a yellow fever country (such as Rwanda), you will need to present your vaccination certificate upon entry.

Malaria

Malaria is prevalent in many parts of South Africa, and we advise you to consult your GP before you depart about taking prophylaxis. It’s also essential to cover up in the evenings when the malaria-carrying Anopheles mosquito usually feeds. The malaria incubation period is 1-3 weeks, so if you experience any flu-like symptoms, headaches, aching joints and back or nausea and diarrhoea, it is recommended that you get tested at the earliest opportunity and let the medical people know you’ve recently travelled to Africa. Find out about South Africa's malaria-free safari areas.

1. South African safaris typically cost from US$700 per person, per night, depending on the accommodation comfort level, time of year and activities. This price usually includes accommodation, all meals, game drives, experienced guides, airport transfers, and 24/7 support from our team.

2. You only make your first payment when you book your holiday. Your second (last) payment is about 105 days before you travel.

3. Peak season bookings require 12–18 months of advance planning. Trips outside of peak season can be arranged 6–9 months ahead, with better rates and availability.