Where to travel When to go africa

February

Our Top Picks for February

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.

Quirimbas Archipelago - Mozambique

Season | High Summer |  Average Temperature for February | 27 Celsius | 81 Fahrenheit

What

Sunset dhow cruises, trips to historic Ibo Island, relaxing on powdery beaches and sampling the day’s catch. Not to mention excellent diving and snorkeling.

Why

Like the Seychelles, the Quirimbas Archipelago is fairly untouched by cyclone season. Islands like Vamizi, Quilalea and Medjumbe bask in tropical sunshine.

When to book

One of the best aspects of visiting the Quirimbas is low visitor numbers, allowing the islands to retain their serenity. As with the Seychelles, if you are planning an engagement, honeymoon, babymoon or other special occasion, it’s best not to leave booking until the last minute.

Ngorongoro Crater - Tanzania

Season | High Summer |  Average Temperature for February | 22 Celsius | 71 Fahrenheit

What

Some of the most superb Big 5 game viewing in the world.

Why

Ngorongoro has very easy game viewing because the animals never venture beyond the Crater’s walls. It is generally very busy with avid safari goers but February is one of its quieter times, meaning more space to yourself and better rates.

When to book

The Crater is very popular so don’t leave it until the last minute. Aim to have your safari planned by the New Year.

Fregate, Denis, Praslin & Mahé Islands - The Seychelles

Season | High Summer |  Average Temperature for February | 22 Celsius | 71 Fahrenheit

What

Snorkeling, diving, island hopping, eating creole food, finding black parrots and massive tortoises, and discovering the coco-de-mer, the world’s largest seed.

Why

The Seychelles best islands are located outside the regional cyclone zone, meaning they enjoy balmy weather and only an occasional short-lived afternoon thundershower in February.

When to book

Some of the world’s most beautiful beaches are to be found here and honeymooners and romantics flock to the islands. If you are planning a special occasion, don’t leave it to the last minute to secure a suite with a private pool, sun-drenched deck and views of the opalescent Indian Ocean.

Chumbe, Mnemba, Pemba, Mafia & Thanda Islands - East Africa

Season | High Summer |  Average Temperature for February | 22 Celsius | 71 Fahrenheit

What

Diving with whale sharks.

Why

Whale sharks migrate along the Kenyan and Tanzanian coasts from October to April – by February, the stragglers have caught up with the front-runners and numbers are generally at their highest.

When to book

More and more divers are seeking out the incredible experience of diving with these creatures that are as large as they are gentle. The best places to stay are small and intimate, so accommodation can fill up fast. If this is on your bucket list, book as soon as you can to catch the best weather and avoid disappointment.

Samburu National Reserve - Kenya

Season | High Summer |  Average Temperature for February | 22 Celsius | 71 Fahrenheit

What

Game drives to spot the Samburu Special 5: these species are endemic to the region and comprise endangered Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, Somali ostrich and gerenuk.

Why

Samburu lies in an arid part of Kenya but after the summer rains its doum palm groves and thorny scrub spring to life with plenty of grazing. Look out for baby gerenuks.

When to book

Good news for spontaneous travellers is that Samburu is generally open to last-minute bookings at this time of year.