Where to travel When to go africa

August

Our Top Picks for June

Whether you are planning to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in East Africa, experience a Big 5 safari in the Kruger National Park or spend your honeymoon in the Seychelles, timing is important. Our guidelines are based on our expert, on-the-ground knowledge of Africa’s travel seasons.

South Luangwa National Park - Zambia

Season | Winter Average Temperature for August | 22 Celsius | 72 Fahrenheit

What

A multi-day walking safari during which you trek from camp to camp, tracking big game and enjoying game drives and extremely comfortable accommodation in between.

Why

It’s peak safari season across Africa so the game viewing is excellent and the weather cooler and drier – perfect walking conditions. Zambia is still a ‘safari secret’ so relatively uncrowded and ideal for returning safari goers.

When to book

Numbers are limited on walking safaris and lodges are generally small and intimate throughout South Luangwa, indeed throughout Zambia. Chat to us as soon as you’re interested in undertaking a walking safari so we can ensure a seamless itinerary for you.

Cape Winelands & Whale Coast - South Africa

Season | Winter Average Temperature for August | 13 Celsius | 55 Fahrenheit

What

Wine tasting in cosy cellars (South Africa has superb vintages), dining on excellent cuisine and going out on the Atlantic Ocean to enjoy watching southern right whales feed, mate and play.

Why

By August, big pods of southern right whales have generally swum up on their annual migration from the Antarctic to take advance of the impending spring in the relatively warmer waters of the Atlantic. Hermanus – less than a two-hour very scenic drive from Cape Town – the world capital for whale watching, these massive mammals often seen in the town’s Walker Bay. Elsewhere, the Cape Winelands – also only an hour’s drive from Cape Town – are lending themselves to idyllic winter days.

When to book

Whale-watching season usually peaks in August and visitors flock to Hermanus, especially on weekends. Book as far in advance as you can to secure the best accommodation. The good news is that Cape Town and the Winelands are fairly quiet at this time of year – perfect for a last-minute holiday.

Sossusvlei, Damaraland & the Kaokaveld - Namibia

Season | Winter Average Temperature for August | 21 Celsius | 69 Fahrenheit

What

Road tripping with your family or friends through some of the most ancient and beguiling landscapes in the world.

Why

Namibia has an excellent road network and a very low population – only about two million people live in the whole country! This means low traffic numbers and, in August, the Namibian and South African school holidays are over, meaning you’ll have plenty of space to yourself.

When to book

Although there isn’t a large number of visitors from neighbouring South Africa, it is still peak safari season and remote places like Damaraland and the Kaokoveld have limited upscale accommodation available. Try to arrange your Namibian adventure about six months in advance so you have your first choice of lodge as well as of vehicle.

Selous Game Reserve - Tanzania

Season | Winter Average Temperature for August | 22 Celsius | 71 Fahrenheit

What

Spectacular peak-season game viewing without the crowds.

Why

The Selous is a massive reserve and at this time of year, the safari crowd is hanging out in the Serengeti and Masai Mara, taking the Wildebeest Migration. This means you have the best of both worlds: fantastic sightings with much of the reserve to yourself.

When to book

Since it’s peak season, don’t leave it too late to get in touch with your Africa Safari Expert. We like to have your safari lined up at least three months before your departure date.