Best Time to Visit East Africa

Around 400 000 calves are born each year in the Serengeti during the month of February when millions of wildebeest flock to graze.

This indicates the existence of large predators, such as big cats, and that a predatory encounter is inevitable. European migratory birds arrive in February as well, adorning the landscape with their brilliant colors.

Kenya’s climate in February is characterized by being relatively dry and clear. It’s much easier to see the predatory action between the animals on a Kenya Safari when the weather is like this. 

This time of year is a popular time of year for tourists to go on safari in Rwanda because the weather is warm and sunny. In most cases, it is also dry. Going gorilla trekking right now is a no-brainer because of the perfect weather.

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A March safari in East Africa is often overlooked by travellers, as this month doesn’t fall into the long dry season. However, it presents a unique window for exploration across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

This month marks a fascinating transition from the short dry spell during January and February to the onset of the wet season, offering a distinct set of advantages if you’re seeking a less crowded, more serene experience.

The changing weather patterns breathe new life into the landscapes, transforming them into lush, verdant environments that are the temporary homes of a wealth of migrant bird species. March is a fantastic time of the month for an exciting birdwatching safari in East Africa!

March also forms part of the calving season when the Great Migration wildebeest herds give birth to their young in the Serengeti. The new arrivals attract predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

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The rainy season is in full swing in the East African countries of Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, making classic safari adventures across the savannah as well as gorilla trekking excursions challenging.

However, as this is low season, an East Africa safari in April can mean lower rates and fewer crowds. Due to the rain, the landscapes are thriving, and you quickly understand why it’s called the “green” season. So, your views during game drives and walking safaris will be of gorgeous verdant environments.

This is a time of replenishment and growth, when the refreshed environment creates stunning photographic safari opportunities and allows for observation of unique wildlife spectacles, such as calving and heightened predator activity.

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The start of the dry season, as well as the northern leg of the migration, occurs in May. Due to the high temperatures of Tanzania, the occasional afternoon or evening thundershower is extremely welcome.

In contrast, wildlife viewing in the Serengeti can be spectacular in May, with large herds of elephants and zebras traversing the park’s central and western regions.

If you can handle the rain and don’t mind getting muddy then May is also an excellent month to visit Rwanda. The rains provide an abundance of food, so the gorillas descend down the mountain slopes for warmth and vegetation.

May is one of the warmest months in the Seychelles, making it ideal for a beach vacation. May brings more spectacular diving possibilities around the islands on a Seychelles island holiday.

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Kenya‘s climate is cooler and less humid in June, making it an ideal time to travel with children in the country’s capital.

In Tanzania, on the other hand, the parks and woodlands begin to dry out, making it an excellent time for game viewing in the Serengeti, particularly in the northernmost regions.

June marks the start of Rwanda’s long dry season, which is ideal for a gorilla trekking safari. Dry, strong trails facilitate trekking and tracking. As the month continues, the jungle becomes less dense, making the gorillas easier to photograph.

This is the start of the dry season in Zanzibar, and the weather is excellent for days on the beach or swimming on a Zanzibar holiday. 

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July is the heart of the dry season across East Africa, transforming the landscape into a prime stage for unparalleled wildlife encounters. This makes it the best time to visit East Africa. Across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda, the dry weather thins vegetation, making animals far easier to spot compared to the green season.

From game drives across the savannah to gorilla trekking in the rainforest and Mount Kilimanjaro hiking adventures, this month brings with it sublime weather for a range of activities. This time of the year is considered to be the peak season for East African safaris, so planning ahead is key to ensure you acquire your top picks for activities and accommodations.

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August is one of the best months to go on an East Africa safari. Whether you dream of seeing the wildebeest herds of the Great Migration, going on primate treks to witness gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats, or simply having a classic savannah safari experience, this is your month.

The conditions at this time of the year are perfect for all of these activities and more. This month you can expect optimal visibility for game drives, drier and more comfortable trails for gorilla and chimpanzee safaris, and clear skies for mountain climbing. August is also prime time for a beach vacation in East Africa – relaxing on an island paradise like Zanzibar is an incredible way to end a safari.

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As the wildebeest make their way over the Mara River at this time of year, the crocodiles are usually well stocked with food and have enough to sustain them till next year. 

We therefore suggest the more remote Ruaha and Selous areas during this period for a safari in Tanzania. Safaris in this part of the world are far more tranquil because of the abundance of wildlife and the low number of vehicles.

A Zanzibar holiday is also a fantastic experience to have in September. With mild temperatures and oceans that are still clear and tranquil. 

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Rain is forecast for a safari in the Serengeti and migrating herds are returning to the region’s revitalized grasslands in October. 

The best places to see the herds in October are in Kenya’s southeastern Masai Mara and Tanzania’s northeastern Serengeti. 

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The optimum time to go chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda is during the rainy season, even though gorilla trekking may be done at any time of year. It is during the month of November when witnessing the chimps is the most rewarding experience. Because of the abundance of foliage, chimpanzees do not have to travel far in order to forage, making them easy to track down.

In November, Uganda experiences a brief rainy season, and although the gorillas’ pathways may be muddy and difficult, they tend to descend down the mountain toward the plentiful food sources. This may shorten the journey to locate gorillas, as well as reducing the length of time spent in the rain.

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Since the rains commenced in December, thousands of wildebeest have moved into the Serengeti’s southernmost portion, where they are now approaching the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The calving season is barely a month away, so everyone can expect big bellies on their safari adventure.

Going gorilla trekking in Uganda during the short dry December season is great. Because the long rains have yet to arrive, the foliage is still quite thin. This means that photographing and discovering the primates of East Africa is much easier at this time of year, making it the perfect Christmas activity.

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