Best time of year for South African safari Planning your first safari? Or your fifty-first? Here is your guide to the best time of year for South African safari

South Africa boasts 250+ sunny days a year (300 if you’re in Madikwe Game Reserve), but the best time of year for South African safari depends on more than sunny skies. Madikwe’s 300 sunny days might sound ideal, but there are a few caveats—and no, that’s not a tiny cave dwelling for hyenas pups. 

If you’re not a fan of heat, midsummer in Madikwe might have you ready to dive naked into a pool of hippos (expect 40ºC plus). Similarly, if cold early mornings in the bush don’t sound appealing and steaming hot coffee with Amarula won’t cut it, winter in Madikwe might not be your cup of tea, either (night-time temperatures can drop to 2 ºC in winter). We love crisp mornings and balmy summer sunsets. But lets dive in a little deeper and look at the climate of each area in this diverse country. And of-course, how these unique climates influence the safari experience.  

The short answer? The best time of year for safari in South Africa is between May and October—and we’ll tell you why. But we wouldn’t totally rule out low season. There are benefits to travelling outside of peak season. If you’re working to a budget consider traveling in green season-thats before May or after October. 

In the 1970s, South Africa’s weather and outdoor lifestyle were the stuff of legend—enough to inspire an American car brand to belt out a cheesy jingle: ‘braaivleis (barbecue), rugby, sunny skies, and Chevrolet.’ (Google it.) It was so cringe-inducing you couldn’t escape it, but hey, it captured our year-round sunshine perfectly. 

Even in the middle of Kruger’s winter, mornings might dip below 10˚C, but by midday, it’s a comfortable 24˚C—swimming pool weather. 

South Africa’s seasons each bring something unique to the safari experience, and understanding them is key to deciding the best time for a safari. Generally the dry months of winter are considered the best time for safari. Its not as hot and there’s no rain. The bush dies down and thins out, making spotting big cats easier. Water is also scarce and so animals concentrate around water-holes and rivers. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:

Spring (September to November): Milder temperatures and green shoots, though it can still be dry, especially in September ensuring excellent game viewing, but once the rains arrive around October, the game tends to spread out, making you work a bit harder for that perfect photo opportunity. 

Summer (December to February): Hot and humid, with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. This is calving season, and newborn babies are everywhere. Migratory birds arrive, adding vibrant colour and birdsong. The thick bush and plentiful water make game viewing more challenging, but not impossible. This is the best season for birders. Temperatures can reach as high as 40 C in the heat of summer. 

Autumn (March to May): Cooler mornings and evenings paired with warm, pleasant days are perfect for safari. The bush may still be thick in March and April, depending on rainfall. But by May, it becomes easier to spot predators.

Winter (June to August): Dry and sunny, with chilly mornings and evenings and no rain. Game viewing is at its best as animals hang around waterholes and rivers. The shorter grass offers excellent chances for big cat sightings. 

Rainfall in South Africa is on the low side—less than 500 mm a year. It usually comes in short afternoon showers, so packing rain gear is always a good idea. Occasionally, heavy downpours can occur, especially in February in Kruger, where rare floods have been known to drop a year’s worth of rain in just two days.

Cape Town’s weather plays by its own rules. Unlike the rest of South Africa, it has a Mediterranean climate—long, dry summers and wet winters. It’s the kind of weather where wine and olives thrive.

If you’re planning the best time of year for a South African safari and considering adding Cape Town, keep its winter rains in mind. They’re not dramatic downpours but a light, persistent drizzle—the sort you can still stroll around in. The good news? It never gets too cold. Mornings hover around 10˚C, but by midday, it’s often a pleasant 18˚C. Evenings? Perfect for a glass of red wine around the fire.

Kruger National Park: In Kruger, the Low-veld’s summer heat can be intense, with temperatures climbing to 40˚C and humidity making it feel even hotter. (most camps have AC and swimming pools).  Dramatic afternoon thunderstorms are common, offering brief but welcome relief. Winter is dry and milder, with cooler mornings and evenings balanced by warm days.

Phinda Private Game Reserve: Phinda in the Kwa-Zulu Natal province enjoys a subtropical coastal climate, meaning it’s warm and humid year-round. Summer can bring heavy rains, feeding its lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems. Winters are mild and dry, making it an ideal time to visit.

Madikwe Game Reserve: Madikwe’s semi-arid, desert-like climate brings extremes. Summers are hot during the day but cooler at night, while winters flip the script with warm days and icy nights. A jacket is essential for morning game drives, but you’ll be peeling off the layers by midday.

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve: Kwandwe in the Eastern Cape has a temperate climate. This makes it one of South Africa’s most comfortable safari destinations. Summers are warm but not overly humid, with light rain possible. Winters bring crisp mornings and evenings, but the days remain pleasantly warm—ideal for spotting big game against its scenic landscapes.

Tswalu Kalahari: The Kalahari Desert is all about contrasts. Summer days can soar above 40˚C, but nights bring a welcome drop in temperature. The mornings are freezing in winter, but the afternoons warm up nicely. Expect clear skies year-round—perfect for stargazing on cool desert nights.

The best time of year for South African safari ultimately depends on you. Winter’s dry season (June to August) might be your best bet if it’s your first time, but come back for summer’s lush landscapes and baby animals? Summer (December to February) has its own magic, even if game spotting takes a bit more patience.

Of course, it’s not just about the seasons—it’s about what matters to you. South Africa is a diverse destination, with deserts, semi-arid grassland, lush subtropical regions, savannahs, and woodland. Each has its own unique climate, flora, fauna, and weather system, offering something extraordinary no matter when you visit.