Africa’s Weather, Unpacked
What to Expect on Safari, Season by Season
If you’ve ever looked up “What’s the weather like in Africa?” and gotten an answer like “It’s hot”—you’ve been misled. Africa isn’t just one place—it’s a continent with deserts, rainforests, mountains, beaches, and vast savannas. And when you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime safari, understanding the seasons isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
Let’s break it down by region, with a touch of wanderlust and wisdom.
East Africa (Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda)
Think lush plains, equatorial sun, and migratory drama.
The first time I landed in the Serengeti in July, I was surprised by the chill in the early morning air. We were wrapped in Maasai blankets on the game drive and sipping hot coffee as elephants moved across the golden plains.
This is dry season (June–October), and it’s prime time for safari—clear skies, minimal rain, and animals gathering around waterholes. The Great Migration unfolds across the Mara and Serengeti, making it one of the most iconic times to visit.
The green season (November–May) brings short afternoon rains that turn the landscapes into rolling green hills. It’s ideal for photographers, birders, and travelers who don’t mind a little drizzle in exchange for fewer crowds and dramatic skies.
Southern Africa (South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia)
Wide open skies, dusty roads, and riverfront magic.
Southern Africa flips the script with more defined dry and wet seasons. From May to October, you’ll get cooler mornings, warm days, and the best wildlife viewing—especially in Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Zambia’s South Luangwa.
Come November, the rains arrive—gentle at first, then building through January and February (Note, November can be extremely hot with temperatures reaching well over 100º F). This is the emerald season, a time of green landscapes, baby animals, and epic birdwatching. It’s not for everyone—some camps close—but it’s soul-filling if you’re craving serenity and soft light.
Indian Ocean Coast (Zanzibar, Mozambique, Seychelles)
White sand, turquoise waters, and trade wind breezes.
While safaris are seasonal, the beach is always a good idea—if you time it right. June through October is the sweet spot: warm, dry, and postcard-perfect. March–May can bring heavy rains, especially on the Swahili Coast, so it’s best to plan around that for beach extensions.
