Where to Go, and When to Travel in Africa?
Your Ultimate Guide to African Travel: Top Destinations and Seasonal Recommendations
Are you looking for a perfect safari destination in Africa but don’t know where to start? Look no further because we’ve got you covered. With so many amazing places to explore, choosing a country to visit in Africa can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll provide you with some information to help you narrow down your choices in unique and customized travel experiences.
Here are your must visit places, and when to visit in Africa:
Kenya and Tanzania
Kenya and Tanzania are perfect for a longer safari adventure, with at least 7-10 days recommended to fully explore these countries. The animal variety is abundant and diverse, and it’s possible to witness the great migration in Tanzania or the calving season when babies are born.
Tented camp safaris are also popular here, with animals sometimes walking right by your tent. You can also experience the local culture by visiting local communities like the Samburu, who will welcome you with a traditional jumping dance.
Safari is a perfect multi-generational trip, everyone of all ages love safari. Our Travel Designers know which parks and properties will have the family suites, connected tents, and the activities, that your group may want. They will add many special touches and surprises, so each day will be a delight.
When you book your trip with Yampu Tours, here are the destinations you will enjoy. Nairobi, Amboseli National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park.
It is also possible to add climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, some beach time in Zanzibar, or trekking with Gorilla’s(in Rwanda/Uganda) to a safari in Kenya or Tanzania.
Rwanda Vs. Uganda : Gorilla trekking
Rwanda and Uganda are two of the best destinations in the world for gorilla trekking. One of the most popular places to see these majestic creatures is Volcanoes National Park, located in Rwanda.
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is perfect for those who want a short trip to see these fascinating animals. The park is only a 1-2 hour drive from Kigali, making it an easy trip for those who don’t have a lot of time.
While gorilla sightings are not guaranteed, many travelers report that the experience is well worth it. Trekking through the lush rain forest and seeing the gorillas up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
It’s important to note that gorilla sightings can sometimes take longer than expected, as the gorillas roam freely throughout the park. However, the guides are highly experienced and will do their best to find the gorillas as quickly as possible.
In addition to the gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is also home to a wide variety of other wildlife, including golden monkeys, buffalo, and various bird species. There are also several hiking trails throughout the park that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Overall, a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is an unforgettable experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So, whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a unique travel experience, be sure to add Rwanda and Uganda to your travel itinerary.
With our Rwanda: Gorilla Safari tour packages, here are the highlights of your trip.
- See the volcanoes of the Virunga National Park
- Rest and recuperate at Lake Kivu
- Sunbathe, swim and play in Gisenyi on the Rwanda Rivera
- Trek through Hagenia and Hypericum forests
- Observe Gorillas munching on bamboo chutes
- Watch local fishermen work in their Mokoro Canoes
- Enjoy views from the steep, green terraced hills, and so much more!
South Africa
If you want a shorter safari and more variety of places to visit and things to do, If you love history and want to learn, this is the country for you. From Visiting Nelson Mandela’s House in Soweto,
Hiking ( or chair lift up) Table Mountain, kayaking with Penguins, visiting the winelands of Franschhoek, exploring the garden route, biking the Cape Peninsula or extending the trip to nearby Victoria Falls, the options are endless.
Multi generational families will love the wonderful selection of lodges or tented camps, family lodges to do the safari. South Africa has multiple Malaria Free Parks in case the family wants to forgo the Malaria prevention medication.
Are you ready for what South Africa can offer? With Yampu Tours, here are the places to look forward to, Cape Town, Swellendam, Plettenberg Bay, Port Elizabeth and Kruger National Park!
Learn more about this trip here.
Botswana
If you want the exclusive feeling you may have had 50 years ago, to see no people other than who are in your lodge, Botswana may be the adventure for you. It’s a bit more costly but we think you will love it. We almost always combine it with Victoria Falls. Its more expensive but the service is top notch; think Exclusive Experience. Since price point is more, you may see less kids, but it is amazing if your family can swing it.
In our Botswana tour, here are the personalized tour packages you can choose from:
- Romantic Botswana
- Mobile Camping Safari of Botswana
- Botswana’s Best with Swakopmund and Sossusvlei
- and many more!
Get your personalized package here.
Namibia
Namibia is also a great second safari destination, with unique landscapes like the Namib Desert and Damaraland. Here, you can see desert lions, wild desert horses, and ancient river terraces. Don’t miss the chance to visit Skeleton Coast and Shipwreck Lodge, where you can see desert-adapted wildlife and explore a ghost town.
Namibia has a lot to offer, and with Yampu Tours, here are the travel highlights waiting for you.
- See some of Africa’s most scenic attractions and Cape Town
- Gaze at some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region
- Check out the famous red dunes of Sossusvlei
- Visit all the Cape Peninsula highlights
- View abundant levels of wildlife in Etosha National Park
- Browse through a bustling local bazaar
- Journey to the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei
- See the view from atop Table Mountain
Another destinations in this off-the-beaten-track country is Damaraland, a unique landscape formed by the erosion of wind, water and geological forces which have formed rolling hills, dunes, gravel plains and ancient river terraces.
Damaraland is home to a variety of desert adapted wildlife and hidden desert treasures, such as the elusive desert adapted elephants. Another great stop is Skeleton Coast to Shipwreck Lodge, where you will visit along the Hoarusib River and sundowner drive to the dune fields. All of these expose the astonishing desert-adapted wildlife, plants, and birdlife of the area. Also while here visit Swakopmund for a Skeleton Coast Fishing Experience, Sossusvlei Desert Deadvlei and surrounding dune fields. For photographers or really anyone with the time, Kolmanskop is a must see. This old diamond town from the early 1900s was inhabited as late as 1956. Now a ghost town, it is slowly being reclaimed by the desert. You can explore houses, stores, classrooms and bowling alleys with a guide before exploring on your own. Here is a National Geographic article on it.
While in this area, it’s worth visiting (and most likely staying in) Luderitz, a colorful and quaint colonial seaside town.
Fish Canyon is the largest canyon in Africa & the 2nd most visited attraction in Namibia. It’s a great destination for travelers who love the outdoors.
Explore Namibia with us! Request a quote here.
Zambia and Zimbabwe
We offer these countries mostly to people who want to visit Victoria Falls, which is another fun multi-generational place to visit, because there is something for everyone here, from flying over the falls in a helicopter (or micro flight) exploring the trails, swimming in Devil’s Pool, sunset cruise or rafting or fishing on the Zambezi River, the options can easily fill 4 – 5 days. Then its possible also to visit safari parks here. If you have done safari before maybe checking out the thrill seekers walking safari in Zambia, where it’s possible to walk from lodge to lodge (with the park rangers).
Zambia is known as the birthplace of the walking safari which is a fascinating and thrilling way to experience a safari. South Luangwa National Park is specifically where these types of safaris started in the 1950s and 60s. This wildlife rich park offers 4 of the big 5 (to see rhinos you have to include the park just above; North Luangwa), but by getting out of the vehicle and enjoying a guided walking safari, you can also get an up close and intimate look at things you would otherwise pass right by; anthills, dung beetles and so much more.
The Lower Zambezi Nation Park is a rich park set on the banks of the Zambezi River, so most lodges/camps offer boat excursions, canoeing, fishing, etc. in addition to the typical vehicle safaris.
The beauty of Zambia is that it is much less visited than Kenya or Tanzania but offers stunning safari experiences with a fraction of the crowds.
Do you want to see our sample itinerary when you book your Zambia trip with Yampu Tours? Click here.
Zimbabwe is rich with wildlife and history. Much like Zambia, it is much less visited than other safari destinations & therefore offers a more intimate experience.
The Matobo Hills in southern Zim is a dramatic landscape with boulders and granite outcrops. Though there are no ultra luxurious properties in this area, the experience of staying in a lodge that is built into the granite will be a highlight. This area offers one of the highest concentrations of rock art in Southern Africa and is one of the few places you can walk amongst rhino, which is a thrilling experience.
Hwange National Park is the largest (and most popular) park in Zimbabwe & is a big-5 park but is most famous for its population of elephants. It’s only about 2 hours from Victoria Falls as well, making it a convenient safari option to include with a visit to the falls.
In conclusion, there are plenty of amazing places to visit in Africa, and the decision of where to go ultimately depends on what kind of adventure you’re looking for. Whether you want a longer or shorter safari, cultural experiences, exclusive adventures, or to visit Victoria Falls, there is something for everyone in Africa.
Your Ultimate Guide to African Travel: The Best Time to Visit Africa
Where to go in January
Uganda/Rwanda – Gorilla trekking is perfect in January & February and from June to September.
Africa Beaches – Peak season at most coastal areas in Southern and Eastern Africa. The weather is great and the water is warm, but to avoid disappointment bookings will have to be made well in advance!
Tanzania – The herds of the annual migration are in southern Serengeti (calving time, excellent for predators) from December to March.
Botswana – Zebra migration in Savuti and the Makgadikgadi Pans from November to April. It’s also ‘green season’ – great rates and perfect for bird-watching.
South Africa – Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles off KwaZulu Natal coastline from November until February
Zimbabwe – Visit Hwange for some of the best game-viewing on safari from Nov until March.
Mozambique – The whale sharks and manta rays are around from November until April on the Inhambane Peninsula.
Tanzania (Nearby islands) – A great time to dive Mafia Island, just off the coast of Tanzania. Diving season usually lasts from October until late March.
Where to go in February
Kenya – Great weather. Game viewing on safari is superb, but without the crowds seen in the summer, and the temperatures on the coast are stunning – consistently over 30 degrees and the sea is as warm as bath water.
Seychelles – The turtles are hatching. It’s perfect weather here all year.
Uganda/Rwanda – Gorilla trekking is perfect in January & February and from June to September.
Tanzania – The herds of the annual migration are in southern Serengeti (calving time, excellent for predators) from December to March.
Botswana – Zebra migration in Savuti and the Makgadikgadi Pans from November to April. It’s also ‘green season’ – great rates and perfect for bird-watching.
South Africa – Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles off KwaZulu Natal coastline from November until February.
Zimbabwe – Visit Hwange for some of the best game-viewing on safari from November until March.
Mozambique – The whale sharks and manta rays are around from November until April on the Inhambane Peninsula.
Tanzania (Nearby islands) – A great time to dive Mafia Island, just off the coast of Tanzania. Diving season usually lasts from October until late March.
Where to go in March
Zimbabwe / Zambia – A great time of year to see Victoria Falls.
Tanzania – The herds of the annual migration are in southern Serengeti (calving time, excellent for predators) from December to March.
Botswana – Zebra migration in Savuti and the Makgadikgadi Pans from November to April. It’s also ‘green season’ – great rates and perfect for bird-watching.
Zimbabwe – Visit Hwange for some of the best game-viewing on safari from November until March.
Mozambique – The whale sharks and manta rays are around from November until April on the Inhambane Peninsula.
Tanzania (Nearby islands) – A great time to dive Mafia Island, just off the coast of Tanzania. Diving season usually lasts from October until late March.
Where to go in April
Zimbabwe / Zambia – A great time of year to see Victoria Falls.
Botswana – Zebra migration in Savuti and the Makgadikgadi Pans from November to April. It’s also ‘green season’ – great rates and perfect for bird-watching. Also a good time to visit the Kalahari as it’s not too scorching from now until end May!
Mozambique – The whale sharks and manta rays are around from November until April on the Inhambane Peninsula.
Where to go in May
Madagascar – Great to visit from May to October. May and October can be best for animal activity.
Namibia – The days are generally warm and dry with cooler nights, and prices are still off peak.
Malawi – A great time to visit, low rainfall and pleasant daytime temperatures from May to October.
Zimbabwe / Zambia – A great time of year to see Victoria Falls.
Botswana – A good time to visit the Kalahari as it’s not too scorching until end May!
Mauritius – The perfect time for a family trip, lovely weather but not so hot that you can’t move! In fact it’s ideal from May to October.
Mozambique – Southern Mozambique (Bazaruto Archipelago) has the best weather in the Indian Ocean region in May… a month where other options have lower temperatures, or experience rain
Where to go in June
Uganda/Rwanda – Gorilla trekking is perfect from June to September and in January & February.
Namibia – Sossusvlei desert – daytime temperatures are moderate and the evenings are cool.
Madagascar – great to visit from May to October. June to September is the migration of the humpback whales.
Mauritius – The perfect time for a family trip, lovely weather but not so hot that you can’t move! In fact it’s ideal from May to October.
Zambia – A great time to visit for safari in the Lower Zambezi or South Luangwa.
Tanzania – Peak season for wildlife viewing at Ruaha and Selous. (June to October).
Botswana – Excellent time to visit the Okavango Delta (June to September).
Mozambique – Humpback whale season from June to September.
Malawi – A great time to visit, low rainfall and pleasant daytime temperatures from May to October
Where to go in July
Kenya – Wildebeest Migration moves through the Masai Mara from July to October. .
South Africa – Whale season starts on the Cape – it runs from July to October – the later you go the better the weather.
Madagascar – Great to visit from May to October. June to September is the migration of the humpback whales.
Mauritius – The perfect time for a family trip, lovely weather but not so hot that you can’t move! In fact it’s ideal from May to October.
Zambia – One of the best months to do a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park (good June to November). Also the Busanga Plains in Kafue NP become accessible until October.
Tanzania – Peak season for wildlife viewing at Ruaha and Selous. (June to October). Visit Tarangire National Park – its permanent water source attracts wildlife from a huge region of northern Tanzania.
Uganda/Rwanda – Gorilla trekking is perfect from June to September and in January & February.
Botswana – Excellent time to visit the Okavango Delta (June to September).
Mozambique – humpback whale season from June to September.
Malawi – A great time to visit, low rainfall and pleasant daytime temperatures from May to October
Where to go in August
Zanzibar – Perfect weather for a trip to the Spice Island!
Kenya – Wildebeest Migration moves through the Masai Mara from July to October. The Kenyan Coast and Islands are also perfect at this time of year.
South Africa – Whale season runs from July to October – the later you go the better the weather. In Namaqualand in late August to September the flowers bloom in the desert.
Madagascar – Great to visit from May to October. June to September is the migration of the humpback whales.
Mauritius – The perfect time for a family trip, lovely weather but not so hot that you can’t move! In fact it’s ideal from May to October.
Zambia – A great time to visit for safari in the Lower Zambezi or South Luangwa as well as the Busanga Plains in Kafue NP.
Tanzania – Peak season for wildlife viewing at Ruaha and Selous. (June to October). Visit Tarangire National Park – its permanent water source attracts wildlife from a huge region of northern Tanzania.
Uganda/Rwanda – Gorilla trekking is perfect from June to September and in January & February.
Botswana – Excellent time to visit the Okavango Delta (June to September).
Mozambique – Humpback whale season from June to September.
Malawi – A great time to visit, low rainfall and pleasant daytime temperatures from May to October
Where to go in September
Botswana – Excellent time to visit the Okavango Delta (June to September). Also more elephants than ever at Chobe NP.
Zanzibar – Perfect weather for a trip to the Spice Island!
Madagascar – Great to visit from May to October. June to September is the migration of the humpback whales. Many bird species are displaying, nesting and in breeding plumage & baby lemurs can be seen clinging to mothers
Kenya – Wildebeest Migration moves through the Masai Mara from August to October. The Kenyan Coast and Islands are also perfect at this time of year.
South Africa – Whale season runs from July to October – the later you go the better the weather.
Mauritius – The perfect time for a family trip, lovely weather but not so hot that you can’t move! In fact it’s ideal from May to October.
Zambia – A great time to visit for safari in the Lower Zambezi or South Luangwa as well as the Busanga Plains in Kafue NP.
Tanzania – Peak season for wildlife viewing at Ruaha and Selous. (June to October). Visit Tarangire National Park – its permanent water source attracts wildlife from a huge region of northern Tanzania.
Uganda/Rwanda – Gorilla trekking is perfect from June to September and in January & February.
Mozambique – humpback whale season from June to September. The whale sharks and manta rays are around from September until April on the Inhambane Peninsula.
Malawi – A great time to visit, low rainfall and pleasant daytime temperatures from May to October
Where to go in October
Tanzania (nearby islands) – A great time to dive Mafia Island, just off the coast of Tanzania. Diving season usually lasts from October until late March.
Kenya – Wildebeest Migration moves through the Masai Mara from August to October.
South Africa – Whale season runs from July to October – the later you go the better the weather.
Mauritius – The perfect time for a family trip, lovely weather but not so hot that you can’t move! In fact it’s ideal from May to October.
Zambia – A great time to visit for safari in the Lower Zambezi or South Luangwa as well as the Busanga Plains in Kafue NP.
Mozambique – The whale sharks and manta rays are around from September until April on the Inhambane Peninsula.
Tanzania – Peak season for wildlife viewing at Ruaha and Selous. (June to October). Visit Tarangire National Park – its permanent water source attracts wildlife from a huge region of northern Tanzania. ..
Malawi – A great time to visit, low rainfall and pleasant daytime temperatures from May to October.
Where to go in November
Botswana – Zebra migration in Savuti and the Makgadikgadi Pans from November to April. It’s also ‘green season’ – great rates and perfect for bird-watching.
South Africa – Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles off KwaZulu Natal coastline from November until February.
Zimbabwe – Visit Hwange for some of the best game-viewing on safari from Nov until March.
Mozambique – The whale sharks and manta rays are around from September until April on the Inhambane Peninsula.
Tanzania (nearby islands) – A great time to dive Mafia Island, just off the coast of Tanzania. Diving season usually lasts from October until late March.
Where to go in December
Africa Beaches – Peak season at most coastal areas in Southern and Eastern Africa. The weather is great and the water is warm, but to avoid disappointment bookings will have to be made well in advance!
Tanzania – The herds of the annual migration are in southern Serengeti (calving time, excellent for predators) from December to March.
Botswana – Zebra migration in Savuti and the Makgadikgadi Pans from November to April. It’s also ‘green season’ – great rates and perfect for bird-watching.
South Africa – Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles off KwaZulu Natal coastline from November until February.
Zimbabwe – Visit Hwange for some of the best game-viewing on safari from Nov until March.
Mozambique – The whale sharks and manta rays are around from November until April on the Inhambane Peninsula.
Tanzania (nearby islands) – A great time to dive Mafia Island, just off the coast of Tanzania. Diving season usually lasts from October until late March.
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