Thinking a safari between August and October, but have no idea where to go in Africa? The choices can be overwhelming in such a sizeable and diverse continent as ours.
From wildebeest crossings in Kenya to wildflower carpets in South Africa, the late winter and spring months (August–October) offer some of Africa’s most spectacular natural shows. Whether you crave classic safaris, dramatic landscapes, or idyllic beaches, these three months strike a perfect balance between adventure and comfort.
From Botswana’s Delta to Namibia’s dunes, here’s your guide to Africa’s top safari destinations in August to October. Explore our expert picks for the best weather, wildlife, and beach escapes.
Where to go in Africa in August
August is prime safari time — dry, sunny, and bursting with wildlife. Across East and Southern Africa, nature’s great dramas unfold on land and sea.
In South Africa the spring wild flower season is starting in parts of South Africa. And what a beautiful sight it is! In East Africa, the annual migration of wildebeest and zebra is in full flow and August is peak season – both in terms of price and demand!
Spring begins to stir in the Cape. The Cedarberg, Namaqualand and West Coast erupt in wildflowers – a living kaleidoscope best viewed from early August through to early September. You can read more about this in our blog on Tips for flower-viewing.
Up north, the Kruger National Park and its adjacent private game reserve delivers crisp mornings and cloudless afternoons – perfect for big cat sightings and sundowners with a view.
Tip for photographers: The low-angle winter light in Kruger and the Kalahari adds cinematic depth to every shot.
The Okavango Delta is at its most glorious: flooded, lush, and teeming with wildlife. Expect mirror-like lagoons dotted with elephant herds and reed islands where lions rest in the shade.
It’s migration season – the iconic Mara River crossings are (often literally) the peak of the safari year.
The annual migration is an extremely dynamic and unpredictable phenomenon – dependent mostly on the rains. But August is usually when the main herds are in the north-east – some crossing the Mara River into Kenya and others lurking in Lamai.
Kenya also makes it easy to combine safari with Indian Ocean beaches, offering effortless “bush and beach” holidays with a dash of barefoot luxury. Think first-class game-viewing, white sandy beaches and warm tropical seas!
Indian Ocean Islands
In Zanzibar and the Seychelles, August is the driest month – great for diving and spotting whale sharks. The calm seas and warm breezes make for sublime snorkeling and sailing.
TIP: If you’re struggling to decide whether it is better to visit Southern or East Africa, then read our blog here… you are spoilt for choice!
Feel free to contact us so that we can start planning the perfect trip for you. You might also like to look at our travel calendar for more ideas of when to travel where in Africa.
Where to go in Africa in September
By September, safari conditions are near perfect across Southern Africa – dry, warm, and full of wildlife congregating around dwindling waterholes.
Game-viewing is made easy at this time of year as animals congregate around riverbanks and waterholes in large numbers.
There’s a new migration scene taking place in East Africa, and the beautiful coastal areas of Mauritius and Madagascar are at their finest.
Spring has arrived in full colour, Hermanus is alive with whales, and Eastern Cape reserves offer superb value as game-viewing is good and yet the winter rates still linger.
Whether you prefer vineyards, coastline, or safaris – this is one of the best all-round months to visit.
Although the whale ‘season’ in South Africa runs from June/July through to December, the peak months are September and October. The whales come right into the bays to breach – a site not to be missed!
Expect blue sunny skies, cool nights, and spectacular game viewing around Etosha’s waterholes. This is one of Namibia’s busiest times – book well in advance.
The migration is winding down, but the Masai Mara remains thrilling, with predators following the last herds. Slightly fewer tourists mean a more exclusive experience.
Coastal Retreats
Mauritius and Madagascar shine in September – calm seas, moderate humidity, and long sunny days. Ideal for honeymooners or families seeking a gentle escape.
Where to go in Africa in October
October is the grand finale of the dry season. Wildlife congregates dramatically around waterholes in Southern Africa,
If you can stand the heat on safari, October is a GREAT month to travel! It’s the end of the dry season in the safari areas and yet it is late Spring in the Cape where everything will be lush and green – the best of all worlds!
However the short rains begun somewhere in the month in East Africa but the coastal regions are also beautiful at this time of year.
Even more than September, October is ideal for a general touring and safari trip. Head to the Cape, where late spring brings lush fynbos, green vineyards, and clear hiking days.
The Garden Route. is in bloom with spring-flowering fynbos, the Cape days are getting warmer and longer, and the game-viewing is superb in the Kruger, Madikwe or northern KZN.
Southern Africa
Expect high drama – elephants jostling for space at shrinking pools, lions lounging in the heat. You may be able to watch them at camp waterholes from the privacy of your private plunge pool or deck. But expect high temperatures, and low water flow over the Victoria Falls.
This is the moment to see desert-adapted elephants in Damaraland, a testament to survival in one of Africa’s harshest landscapes.
East Africa
The short rains turn the plains green, attracting herds south toward Ngorongoro and Tarangire.
Indian Ocean Islands
Divers will find excellent visibility in Seychelles, Mozambique and Zanzibar before the rains wash sediment out into the Indian Ocean, reducing visibility.
Off the Beaten Path
For those craving something new, why not try some hidden gems like Uganda or Ethiopia?
Uganda: Track chimpanzees in Kibale before the short rains set in, or explore Murchison Falls, Uganda’s largest national park and home to all of the ‘Big Five’. Those who make the journey to the remote Kidepo Valley National Park are rewarded with less common sightings such as bat-eared fox and spotted hyena.
Ethiopia: Trek the Simien Mountains in amid blooming wildflowers and crisp mountain air.
Follow Africa’s Rhythm of Life
August to October is peak safari time for a reason. Skip the guesswork and let Cedarberg’s experts craft a journey that fits you perfectly — from sunrise game drives to starlit beach dinners.
Tell us when you want to travel and what inspires you.
We’ll curate a tailor-made safari that fits your style and pace.
You relax and we’ll take care of every detail.
Start planning your bespoke safari adventure with Cedarberg
Our team of Africa specialists will help you design a journey that feels effortless, personal, and exactly right for the season.
This ‘Where to go in Africa’ series is by Mila of Cedarberg Africa
Mila is one of our Senior safari specialists and has been with Cedarberg for over 20 years. Cedarberg Africa is safari company with over 30 years of experience, specializing in bespoke African safaris tailored to your interests. We have long-standing partnerships with Africa’s finest lodges and guides, so you benefit from our insider knowledge and preferential rates.
