South Africa in June

South Africa in June

By Andre Van Kets

Co-founder, Discover Africa

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June marks the start of the rainy season in South Africa, so outdoor activities may be limited. However, this doesn’t mean you’re restricted from having fun.

Wildlife viewing isn’t common in many parks. However, locations like the Phinda Game Reserve, which has a collection of big game life like lions, giraffes, elephants, and leopards, and the Madikwe Game Reserve, which boasts a unique wildlife experience, given the overlap of the Kalahari Bushveld and Lowveld Bushveld, are worth visiting.

To see the Big Five, Pilanesberg National Park is the perfect location for this South African safari, as each of the Big Five is a regular occurrence in the park.

Weather in June

At this time of year, winter has finally arrived, and the weather tends to be much colder. Game drives will be much chillier, so you’ll need to dress warmly.

Pros

• Good aquatic life
• Low tourist numbers
• Lower rates for flights and accommodation
• Birding life thrives

Cons

• Colder weather
• Limited outdoor activity

National Parks to Visit in South Africa and Why

Phinda Game Reserve

With its blend of riverine and sand forests, the Phinda Game Reserve creates a unique environment for rich game life, such as lions, giraffes, white and black rhinos, antelopes, elephants, leopards, buffalo, cheetahs, and wildebeest. The park also houses 415 species of birds.

June is one of the dry months at the reserve, and wildlife is often best spotted during this time as they roam the grounds more often.

What to do:

• Open vehicle game drives
• Walking safaris
• Day and night safaris

Madikwe Game Reserve

In winter, game viewing is often at its peak in Madikwe Game Reserve, and its diverse wildlife scope means you’re spoilt for choice. The wildlife experience at the reserve is unique, given that the park overlaps with Kalahari Thornveld and Lowveld Bushveld.

What to do:

• Game viewing

Pilanesberg National Park

Winter is the dry season at Pilanesberg National Park. The weather makes it the perfect opportunity for a safari in South Africa since the wildlife tends to be more visible as they’re in search of water sources. The park also houses The Big Five for those who have these majestic animals on their wish lists.

What to do:

• Hot air balloon rides
• Game drives
• Walking safaris