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Home > Destinations > Southern Africa

Southern Africa Safari

The ultimate guide to your next safari in Southern Africa

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Get to Know Southern Africa

Exploring Southern Africa allows you to add South Africa’s Kruger, Namibia’s Sossusvlei, or Botswana’s Chobe to your safari itinerary.

Plan around unparalleled wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage experiences and thrilling Southern Africa journeys.

Delve into the many reasons why Southern Africa should be at the top of your travel wishlist by looking at its highlights, key attractions, and unique features.

Why Southern Africa?

Unforgettable safari wildlife experiences
Endless choices of luxury and standard safari lodges
Spectacular beach and bush travel combinations
Rich culture and historic experiences

Southern Africa Gallery

Where to Go

Southern Africa boasts an array of remarkable destinations, each offering unique experiences. From the golden savannahs of Kruger National Park to the majestic dunes of Sossusvlei, the region provides countless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Botswana

Known as the "Land of Giants" for its old baobab trees and wandering elephant herds, Botswana, one of the most fascinating safari destinations in the world, is truly a one-of-a-kind...

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Mozambique

Mozambique's coast is known for its picturesque, palm-fringed beaches that slope down to meet the Indian Ocean's azure seas, where colorful fish, sea turtles, and whale sharks flourish and dhows...

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Namibia

With its vast arid landscapes, abundant animals, and ancient rock art, the Namib Desert is Africa's most sparsely populated country. The unique environment of Namibia has been shaped by a...

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South Africa

Without a doubt, a safari tour in South Africa is one of the most unique experiences on the planet. This is a terrific vacation for the entire family, as well as...

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Where to Go in Southern Africa

Southern Africa is a captivating region that offers a diverse array of experiences, from the vast deserts of Namibia to the lush wetlands of Botswana, and the iconic savannahs of...

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Zambia

Zambia is home to amazing wildlife, but the Victoria Falls is the crowning glory. The country's remote, game-rich national parks are ideal for wildlife viewing minus the crowds. Elephants, buffalo, lions,...

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Zimbabwe

A safari in Zimbabwe offers stunning scenery and wonderful animal viewing possibilities, as it is located between the enormous Zambezi River and the seasonal Limpopo River. Victoria Falls is Zimbabwe's...

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When to Go

Understanding the climate and seasonal patterns is key to planning the perfect trip. Discover the best times to visit Southern Africa, with detailed insights into high and low seasons, and dry and wet periods.

Peak Season

Low Season

Shoulder Season

Southern Africa in January

It is a wonderful time of year to visit the South African city of Cape Town, when the sunny and warm weather is ideal for beach hopping and wine touring. In January, when Zambia is experiencing its rainy season, many parks' camps close. The open camps however are a world of emerald green vegetation and singing migratory birds. The vibrant colors of the flora and rivers full of water provide fantastic photographic opportunities for a Zambia Safari.

Southern Africa in January

Southern Africa in February

Safaris in southern Africa in February are not as great as other months. However, February is a great time for a Cape Town holiday. It is warm and sunny making for an excellent African holiday destination or potentially if you have a lot of time and budget, to combine with an East Africa tour.

Southern Africa in February

Southern Africa in March

In March, Mozambique's rainy season ends, but the weather remains sunny and pleasant for lounging on the beach, snorkelling and scuba diving .This is also the best time of year to view green turtles breeding on the beaches. Botswana, like most of Africa, is in transition in March. Because this is the 'low season' for Botswana safaris, several camps in the Okavango Delta have amazing 'off-season' deals. The Makgadikgadi Pans are packed with zebras in early March, and the flat terrain makes game viewing easy. This month marks the start of their annual trek back to the Okavango Delta. Which...

Southern Africa in March

Southern Africa in April

April is a great time to visit the Namib Desert on a Namibia Safari. This is because the temperatures are cooler compared to the beginning of the year. April is one of the greatest months to see Victoria Falls in full swing thanks to summer rains. The Falls can be seen from either Zimbabwe or Zambia. Because of the spray caused by the Falls, a helicopter ride is recommended to see them at their absolute best on a Victoria Falls Safari.

Southern Africa in April

Southern Africa in May

The best time to visit Kruger National Park is from May to September. During the driest months of the year, because this is the time that the animals most frequently gather around waterholes. This, along with the drier and sparse vegetation, makes finding the wildlife in Kruger a breeze. Etosha National Park in Namibia is also best visited from May to October, when the dry environment receives little rain. That’s because the dry weather makes seeing lions, elephants, rhinos, and other animals super easy since they all need to drink from the watering holes. May marks the end of the rainy season...

Southern Africa in May

Southern Africa in June

The Okavango Delta's dry season begins in June, when animals come to the Delta in pursuit of water, making for superb wildlife viewing. The weather is pleasant, and there are less mosquitoes this time of year which makes for the perfect Okavango Delta Safari. June also marks the start of winter in South Africa and the northern wildlife reserves' peak season for game viewing. As the grass dries in the South African bush, the wildlife becomes easier to find which is perfect when on Safari in South Africa. In June, all wilderness camps in Zambia open their doors to guests...

Southern Africa in June

Southern Africa in July

July in Namibia is a dry season with warm days and cool nights. Animals gather in great numbers around scarce water sources, making game viewing easier on a safari in Namibia. Thousands of animals and birds use the Okavango Delta as a temporary home after being displaced by floodwaters from the previous months. As the outer lying waterholes dry up, the Delta becomes a beautiful place to see wildlife from a vehicle or even a boat. Photographic opportunities on a Botswana Safari in July are unlike anything you'll find anywhere else in the globe.

Southern Africa in July

Southern Africa in August

Travel to Namaqualand in northwestern South Africa in late August to witness spectacular displays of wild spring flowers carpeting the arid semi-desert landscape. In August, Namibia Safaris are the most popular. Animals gather in great numbers near the few water sources in Namibia, making wildlife viewing easy and predatory action a common occurrence.

Southern Africa in August

Southern Africa in September

Tourist numbers in Zambia and Zimbabwe can stay high in September since wildlife watching on safari is still considered peak. Water and plants become scarce in September due to months without rain and rising temperatures. Because of their water requirement, animals gather in huge groups, creating an exciting predator-prey encounter. Making a Zambia Safari and Zimbabwe Safari in September ideal.

Southern Africa in September

Southern Africa in October

Hiking in South Africa's Drakensberg mountains on safari in South Africa is especially delightful in October, when the weather is mild and the mountains are lush and green. October implies high heat and humidity, but if you can handle it, October safaris are regarded to be some of Zambia's most dramatic Safaris. Because water and food are scarce, animals must gather close together. As tensions build, aggressive behavior is seen more frequently. Battles between and among species are incredibly exciting to see and photograph.

Southern Africa in October

Southern Africa in November

Explore the beaches of Cape Town and the Garden Route on a South Africa holiday as the weather warms up for the beginning of summer and before the Christmas holiday crowds descend on the country. A Botswana Safari in November is the end of the dry season. The camps are cheaper and the reserves are less crowded. Wildlife is easy to find, but temperatures and humidity are rising.

Southern Africa in November

Southern Africa in December

If you don't mind crowds on the beaches, December is a great time to visit Cape Town, the Eastern Cape, or the magnificent KwaZulu-Natal coast on an adventurous South African holiday. In December, hundreds of zebras migrate to the Kalahari Desert in Botswana for new pastures. This time of year, this parched region becomes a beautiful wonderland.

Southern Africa in December

Experiences in Southern Africa

From thrilling safaris and adventurous hikes to serene boat rides and cultural tours, Southern Africa offers activities for every interest. Discover our recommended activities to make the most of your trip.

Cape Point Winelands Tour

Cape Town Food Markets

Chobe River Cruise

Diving & Snorkelling

Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts

Mokoro Safaris in Botswana

Shark cage diving

Swim with dolphins in Mozambique

Table Mountain Hiking

Walk with the Masai

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Tours to Inspire You

Explore the best of Southern Africa’s safari adventures with our curated selection of popular tours. Whether you seek luxury lodges, thrilling game drives, or immersive walking safaris, we offer something for every traveller.

9 DAYS

Affordable Cape Town, Kruger Safari and Victoria Falls journey

Southern Africa South Africa Cape Town Kruger Park Zambia Livingstone

From $ 4880 /USD

per person per tour

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5 DAYS

Sabi Sands and Kruger Safari

Southern Africa South Africa Kruger Park

From $ 3420 /USD

per person per tour

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5 DAYS

Sabi Sands and Timbavati Safari

Southern Africa South Africa Timbavati Sabi Sands

From $ 5500 /USD

per person per tour

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Who is Travelling to Southern Africa with you?

Southern Africa caters to all types of travellers. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, with family, or in a group, the region offers unique experiences designed for everyone.

Family Safari in Southern Africa

A family safari is an excellent opportunity to introduce your children to nature and wildlife without having to worry about them becoming bored. Family safaris are designed to keep the...

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Honeymoon Safaris in Southern Africa

For couples who wish to combine romance with outdoor activities like game watching and hiking, a honeymoon in southern Africa is ideal. South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mauritius are some...

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Solo Safari in Southern Africa

There is plenty to do and see in southern Africa, and solo travel is growing increasingly popular. When you travel alone, you can be entirely selfish about your preferences, focusing...

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What You Need To Know

Highlights on a Safari in Southern Africa

Languages spoken in Southern Africa

What currency is used in Southern Africa?

Accommodation available in Southern Africa

Wildlife in Southern Africa

When to Go to Southern Africa

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Andre Van Kets, Co-founder, Discover Africa

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Southern Africa Safari Reviews

Prepare for your trip to Southern Africa with essential tips on visa requirements, health precautions, best times to visit, and local customs. Discover Africa provides comprehensive insights to ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience.