Best time to visit South Africa

From dynamic Cape Town and the cosmopolitan Johannesburg to wildlife-filled expanses of wilderness such as the Drakensberg mountains, South Africa has something for everyone. The best time to visit will depend on where you want to go and what you want to do when you get there. No matter when you decide to travel there is always something to do – from whale migrations and prime game viewing in the winter, to blissful sunshine and Christmas festivities in the summer.

A Year Round Destination

South Africa is a year-round destination with varying regional climates and wildlife opportunities. We suggest the best time to visit this spectacular country is from May to September, as the cooler winter months in the North bring superb game viewing conditions. During these winter months, Kruger National Park, and surrounding areas in the East experiences its dry season. Wildlife is easier to spot because vegetation thins, and animals gather around waterholes and rivers.

Sabi Sabi Safari

Go Whale Watching from September to October

September and October are the peak times for whale watching. May to June also sees a massive run of sardines that attracts whales, dolphins, sharks, and sea birds. Durban is a good place to watch this spectacle.

South Africa's Dry and Wet Seasons

Unlike many other African countries, South Africa does have four distinct seasons. May to September is typically the drier season, covering winter and a shorter spring season, and making it ideal for game drives and other outdoor activities. October to April is the wet season, encompassing fall and summer. This is an excellent season for bird-watching, and even then, rains are often quick showers that are unlikely to affect your trip. December to February are very hot months and are similar temperatures to that of a European summer.

Download our South Africa brochure packed with an inspirational range of itineraries, from 11 incredible guided tours, 9 spectacular self-drives, 11 world-renowned lodges and reserves, 4 luxurious rail journey and a range of carefully handpicked hotel and sightseeing options.

Be inspired and start planning your South Africa holiday, contact us on 0161 888 5632 today.

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Our Awards

We are very proud that our personal, friendly service and attention to detail has led to us becoming an industry leader in providing tailor-made holidays. We have been recognised throughout the years by winning a number of prestigious awards from within and outside of the travel industry. We won the "Best Operator to Canada" award at the 2017 British Annual Canada Travel Awards for a record 15th time.

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