african safari october

• Where to Go on an African Safari in October

• Wild Safari Guide
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• October 21, 2022

Destinations for an African safari in October include Kenya, Botswana, South Africa and Tanzania. October is also the peak season for a lot of safari destinations as the dry weather makes it easier to spot wildlife. But note, Africa’s well-known safari locations will be crowded during peak season. Although July and August are the busiest holiday months, October is a particularly popular period for safari travellers because of the game viewing. Furthermore, a safari in October combined with the beach is also a fantastic option as this time of year is a great time to visit islands like Zanzibar, Seychelles, and Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago.

Northern Kenya Safari in October

As Meru National Park in Northern Kenya is still a relatively unknown reserve, you can take your time exploring it on a safari in October. Nine months of the year in northern Kenya are dry and without rain, which allows for superb game viewing along the palm-lined rivers that flow through Meru and down from Mount Kenya, or the perennial Ngiro River that runs through Samburu National Park .

The Zambezi River borders the Lower Zambezi, which is a blessing. The Zambezi River is peaceful and consistent, in contrast to the nation’s Luangwa River, so you may take part in a variety of activities there even when the temperature is high. Elephants, water monitors, vervet monkeys, and a variety of colourful birds are among the wildlife extravaganzas that canoeing with a guide down one of its waterways provides.

Tanzania’s main parks are still in peak season, and the heat is much milder than in southern Africa’s main parks, particularly those in Botswana, Zambia, and Namibia. We love the dry-season parks in October, especially Ruaha and Katavi , where the lack of tourists and abundance of game make for a fantastic and authentic safari experience. Tarangire’s elephant herds are at their largest, while river crossings in the Serengeti have increased as the herds begin their journey south.

South African Safari in October

The month of October is an interesting time to visit South Africa because the Cape is entering its peak season, with beautiful days and clear skies. The Kruger National Park is also remarkable at this time of year because the rains have not yet arrived.

Botswana Safari in October

Botswana’s Chobe River, Savuti, and Linyanti are the best places to visit in October for wildlife, with thirsty elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebra, and more antelope species than you can count. Let’s just say the predators have an easy time of it. Ambushes at waterholes are a favourite tactic for lions and leopards, while cheetahs and wild dogs charge into impala herds, singling out the weak and unlucky. With game viewing at its peak, you don’t want to miss out on the excitement of a safari in October. 

African Tropical Islands

October is a great time to visit some of the top destinations in East Africa, particularly the tropical islands. There is very little rain to ruin your afternoons in Zanzibar and even less in Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, and island temperatures are ideal—warm but not sweltering. In Seychelles , underwater visibility may reach an incredible 30 meters or 100 feet of breathtaking beauty.

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Is October the best safari month?

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When is the best time to go on safari?

Several of our safari experts view October as the best month for a safari in Africa . Their reasons include:

in Southern Africa , it’s the height of the dry season, with the first short rain season only commencing in mid-November. This means the vegetation is sparse - so wildlife is easier to see. Also, there is little or no standing water - meaning that animals are forced to gather near permanent water sources like rivers and waterholes, making them easier to find. Predators wait at the few remaining water sources, so this is your best chance to see lions, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas making a kill. Wild dog (painted wolf) puppies have recently left the safety of their dens and are more easily found nearby as they gain fitness and confidence to range with the pack. October is often hot and dusty, but the wildlife viewing can be exceptional - making the discomfort well worth it.

the enthralling Mara River crossings during Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara are ongoing, AND the crowds of the peak safari season have left, meaning that you have a better chance of fewer vehicles affecting your experience. Although these are the final weeks of this great annual river-crossing spectacle, the crossings season frequently extends beyond mid-October. This safari report-back was from a safari in the second half of October.

Victoria Falls - the smoke that thunders - still has enough water dropping 100m to the chasm below to create a scenic spray - but not the drenching thick mist of the high water season that obscures the view from the ground of this iconic natural wonder. Courageous visitors to Livingstone Island (Zambia) can swim out to Devil’s Pool (late August-December) to enjoy a thrilling view from the lip of the Falls. Vic Falls is the ideal short vacation or add-on to your October safari. There is never a bad time to visit Victoria Falls !

October is in the middle of the dry season in Congo-Brazzaville, making that lowland gorilla trekking safari top of the list for many at this time of year. The true safari connoisseur will also search the Odzala-Kokoua forests, plains and river systems for forest elephants, bongos, dwarf crocodiles, huge flocks of grey parrots and green pigeons, and other iconic wildlife encounters.

high October temperatures make this an ideal month for a bush-and-beach combo safari. Imagine soaking away the safari dust at a coastal or inland white-sand beach as you kick back and relax under an umbrella, your favourite beverage in hand.

October is a relatively low-risk month for malaria because of the lack of standing water, although precautions should still be taken.

Which of our ready-made safari trips are at their best during October?

The list below provides a few examples of our many ready-made safaris at their best in October every year. If none meets your wishes, start the discussion with one of our safari experts to find your October safari of a lifetime.

The above ready-made packages are just a taste of October-friendly safaris on offer

If none of the above meets your needs why not discuss your requirements with one of our safari experts?

Start the discussion

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The Best Safaris in October

October is widely regarded as one of the best times to embark on a safari adventure in Africa . With its pleasant weather, remarkable wildlife sightings, and cheap tourist deals, it’s the prime opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the African wilderness.

Whether you’re seeking up-close encounters with majestic animals, breathtaking landscapes, or the chance to witness extraordinary events such as the Great Migration , an October safari promises an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you with lasting memories for the years to come.

In this guide, we’ll give you all the information you need about going on an African safari in October and the best experiences to add to your itinerary.

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Is october a good time to go on safari.

Absolutely! During October, many African countries experience favorable weather conditions, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing and being able to appreciate the beauty of the landscapei. What’s more, it’s also a lot cheaper to visit than during the peak seasons, so you’ll be able to enjoy a full safari experience on a budget.

Here are some of the key reasons to go on safari in October:

Cheaper prices

October is a cheaper time to go on a safari compared to other months of the year. It’s always hot in sub-Saharan Africa and you’re unlikely to experience much rainfall at all (you may catch the occasional shower towards the end of the month, if any). However, this is a good compromise to make as prices drop significantly , meaning you can experience your dream safari for less.

What’s more, visitor numbers decline in October , which leads to more competitive pricing from safari operators, so you may just be able to grab a great deal.

Improved wildlife viewing

During the month of October, safari enthusiasts have the exciting prospect of encountering extraordinary wildlife encounters. You may just be lucky enough to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of animals giving birth and newborn creatures embarking on their very first step s.

The landscape undergoes a stunning transformation during this time of year. The recent rainfall nourishes the land which creates lush greenery on the once-dry plains and savannahs. While the increased availability of water sources can cause game to disperse across a wider area, this provides an opportunity for experienced guides to venture into lesser-explored areas in search of wildlife. Visitors, therefore, have the chance to discover hidden gems and experience a more exclusive encounter with nature.

Quieter parks

October is a much quieter month for African safaris. With fewer tourists around, you’ll be able to enjoy the experience at a more relaxed pace and have greater chances of spotting wildlife without battling the crowds.

Guides and staff have more time to focus on individual guests by providing personalized assistance, sharing in-depth knowledge about wildlife and the environment, and customizing safari activities to your own preferences.

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Where to go on safari in October

If you’re wondering which is the best safari in October, Uganda , and Kenya are the top locations we recommend for this time of year. Below, we’ll list some of the key parks and forests to visit in both countries to help you plan your upcoming safari experience:

Some of the best October safaris in Uganda include:

Bwindi National Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is a globally significant destination renowned for its endangered mountain gorillas. The park’s gorilla trekking experiences offer an unparalleled opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat, which you can experience with our 3-day or 4-day gorilla-trekking holiday.

The forest is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site , boasting exceptional biodiversity. In October, Bwindi National Forest showcases its vibrant greenery and thriving ecosystem , thanks to the rains in the preceding months having nourished the landscape.

While here, be sure to take time to mingle with the local communities, particularly the Batwa Pygmies, to learn more about the region’s cultural heritage.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park is renowned for its exceptional primate populations. It’s home to an impressive 13 primate species (including the iconic chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys), which you can observe up close during game drives. While here, you may also spot a variety of mammals, such as elephants, buffaloes, duikers, and bushbucks.

The park also boasts diverse ecosystems that host a wide range of flora and fauna. The lush tropical rainforest is a sanctuary for bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers – especially during October, with many migratory bird species having started to arrive in the park.

With so much to see and do in Kibale Forest National Park, you could potentially book a custom safari that’s tailored to your exact requirements.

Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls National Park is known for its namesake, the magnificent Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge, creating a breathtaking cascade of water. The park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from savannah plains to riverine forests, provide a captivating backdrop for exploration.

October is a great month for wildlife sightings in Murchison Falls National Park. The vegetation is typically less dense during this time, making it easier to spot animals as they gather around the water sources. Look out for elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and an array of antelope species.

Head off on thrilling game drives or boat safaris along the Nile to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. During October, water levels are usually good so you’ll have a much smoother ride and the opportunity for optimal viewing. Marvel at herds of elephants grazing along the riverbanks spot elusive leopards lounging in the trees, and the remarkable Nile crocodiles sunning themselves on the river’s edge.

Ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure? Discover the untamed beauty of Murchison National Park and Kidepo on our exhilarating 10-day guided trip .

Queen Elizabeth

Situated in the western part of Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is renowned for its picturesque landscapes , ranging from lush forests to sparkling crater lakes and meandering rivers . As you navigate the park’s expansive savannahs, be prepared to spot majestic elephants , graceful giraffes , herds of buffalo , and the elusive leopards roaming freely in their natural habitat. You may also discover a variety of antelope species, including Uganda kob and topi .

One of the park’s major highlights is the Kazinga Channel , a natural waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward . Take a boat safari along the channel and you’ll be treated to the incredible sight of hippos and crocodiles wallowing in the water and colorful birds darting through the skies. The park is also known for its population of tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, which are famous for their habit of lounging high up in the branches of fig trees.

A highlight we recommend in Kenya is the Masai Mara National Reserve…

Masai Mara National Reserve

Located in southwestern Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve is a vast and untamed wilderness . It is named after the Maasai people – a proud and traditional community that has coexisted harmoniously with wildlife for centuries. If you have always dreamed of seeing the Big Five, booking a 4-day trip here in October should be on your bucket list. This is the key month where you’ll spot the lion , leopard , rhino , elephant , and African buffalo roaming along the plains in full view.

What makes the Masai Mara truly exceptional is the annual Great Migration during this time of year. Every year, millions of wildebeest , zebras , and other herbivores undertake a treacherous journey from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in search of greener pastures. Witnessing this natural spectacle is a once-in-a-lifetime experience as the vast herds cross crocodile-infested rivers and brave predators in their quest for survival.

What is the weather like in October for a safari?

The weather in Africa during October can vary hugely depending on the specific region and country you plan to visit.

In East Africa, (Kenya and Tanzania), October marks the end of the dry season and the transition to the short rainy season . The weather is generally warm with daytime temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F). However, the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional showers or thunderstorms, especially towards the end of the month.

In Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe) October falls during the spring season. The weather is typically pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). It’s considered the transitional period from the dry winter to the wet summer season so, you may encounter sporadic rainfall from time to time.

In Central Africa (Rwanda and Uganda) October is characterized by a mix of dry and wet weather. It can be a good time for gorilla trekking, as rainfall isn’t as heavy compared to other months. Temperatures are generally moderate, ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F).

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The Best Time to Go on Safari

The best time for an African safari is typically from July through October, when the animals are easy to find and in substantial numbers. Deciding when to go on safari depends on what country you would like to visit and when you can plan your trip. Seasons differ in East and Southern Africa so you can plan an excellent safari for almost every month of the year if you are flexible about where you want to go to.

Below you'll find a country-specific guide for the absolute best time to plan a safari. A month-by-month guide for the best country to visit for a safari is also included. The last part of this article is for if you're looking for animal-specific safaris, like a gorilla or a chimpanzee safari.

The best time to go on safari in Kenya and experience a vast density and diversity of wildlife is when the annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gnu descend on the Mara plains with predators close behind. The best time to see this wildlife spectacle is from July to October. Other parks in Kenya are also excellent and the best time to visit these would be during the dry seasons —January through March and July through October.

With the scarcity of water during the dry seasons, the animals tend to gather in more concentrated numbers around permanent waterholes, rivers, and lakes, so they are easier to find. The vegetation is also less lush which means that viewing animals from a distance is easier.

If you want to see the Great Migration unfold, head to Tanzania's northern parks : the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. The best time to witness the migration is probably February through March when the wildebeest and zebra have their young. Not only can you enjoy seeing baby animals, but the predators are at the highest number too. Because the herds also concentrate in the south of the Serengeti, it's easy to plan your wildlife viewing in that area and find a safari company that offers lodging there.

June to November is Tanzania's dry season and is the best time to visit all the parks (and you can always hop over to Kenya's Masai Mara to witness the Great Migration during this time). Tanzania's Southern Parks are perfect to visit during this time since the animals tend to congregate around permanent water and it isn't so hot and humid.

All of Tanzania's parks suffer from the rains which generally fall from March to May in the North, and from November to May in the South and West. Roads get washed out and given the sheer size of Tanzania's parks, the animals tend to spread out, and this makes wildlife viewing less satisfying (if you're looking for sheer numbers of animals).

December through March can get quite hot and humid, especially in Western and Southern Tanzania which makes it a little uncomfortable to spend a lot of time in the bush.

Uganda has some magnificent National Parks which are best visited from December through March or June through September when it is predominantly dry. Most people who choose Uganda as a safari destination go to see the Mountain Gorillas . Although rain is likely all year round, the rainy seasons make the trek up to the gorillas particularly tricky, so avoid the months of March and April or October and November.

The best time to enjoy Zambia's wildlife is from September through mid-November which is the end of the dry season. Elephants abound and large herds of buffalo, impala, zebra, and others congregate in the Lower Zambezi Valley. April to September is also a good time to go, but beyond these months many parks in Zambia all but shut down due to impassable roads. In November, there's a smaller version of the Great Migration where 30,000 wildebeest gather in Zambia's Liuwa Plain National Park, that's not witnessed by many, but worth trying to plan a trip around.

July to October is the best time to go to Zimbabwe's excellent wildlife parks, especially Hwange, the largest game reserve in the country. Whitewater rafting on the Zambezi is best from August to December when the water is low, and the rapids are fast.

The Victoria Falls are at their most impressive in March and April after the rainy season. You may have difficulty seeing all of the falls due to massive amounts of spray it can be quite torrential.

June through September is the best time to go on safari in Botswana . There is little chance of rain, and the weather is still lovely and warm during the day. Huge herds congregate around the Okavango Delta during this time, making a trip in a mokoro (traditional canoe) extremely rewarding.

Botswana is one of Africa's most expensive safari destinations because many of the parks are inaccessible by road and you have to charter a small plane to get there. If you have your heart set on Botswana's excellent parks, but can't quite afford them, check out some of the shoulder season deals in April, May, and October.

Etosha National Park is Namibia's prime safari destination and the best time to visit is from May to September. This is Namibia's dry season (despite being mostly desert , there are still seasons in Namibia!) and animals congregate around the water holes making viewing easier.

Many birders come to Namibia, and the best time to visit is during the summer months from December to March, but be prepared for some scorching and humid weather.

South Africa

The prime safari areas in South Africa around Kruger National Park are best visited from June through September when the weather is cooler and dry. But South Africa's wildlife parks have better infrastructure than most parks in Africa, so rains don't necessarily mean the roads will be washed out. There are also many excellent game parks in South Africa's Eastern Cape region which experience less rain during the winter months than in the north of the country.

When to go on a safari sometimes depends on when you can take a vacation. If you're looking for the best safari experience and don't mind what country you go to, this is a useful guide for you. It's month by month account of the best animal viewing opportunities in Africa.

• January is prime safari time in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The weather is usually dry, and the animals will congregate in dense numbers around permanent water supplies. The migrating wildebeest, zebra, and gnu can be found in Tanzania's northern parks during this time of year particularly in the southern Ndutu and Salei plains.
• February is one of the best months to go on safari in Tanzania's northern parks because thousands of wildebeest are usually born around this time. Most of the wildebeest give birth within the same three week period. If you like baby animals , Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are all perfect this time of year. Southern Tanzania can get quite hot and humid this time of year, so stick to the northern parks if you think the weather will bother you.
• March: East Africa is still the place to be in early March if you're looking for the best safari experience in Africa. Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are still in their dry season, and the density and diversity of animals can't be matched elsewhere this month. If you're visiting Uganda and want to see the gorillas, you should avoid March.
• April is a good month for those looking for discounted safaris because the rains usually start in East Africa and are on their way out in Southern Africa. Rains bring plentiful water, and the animals tend to disperse making them harder to find while on safari. Vegetation begins to get very lush which can obstruct your views of the animals. And perhaps most importantly, the dirt roads in national parks can get washed out and become impassable. You can still enjoy an excellent safari in Tanzania without the crowds, especially in the northern parks. Southern Africa is coming into its own in April with cooler, drier weather. Botswana and Namibia are good bets for April. The Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe) are at their most spectacular in April with the start of the heavy rains. They are easily combined with a visit to any Southern African safari destination.
• In May , the best country to go on safari is probably Zambia. Zambia offers a genuinely wild African safari (and the best walking safaris), and there aren't too many months when the parks can operate at full tilt, so you have to take advantage of it when you can. The rest of Southern Africa is good as well though as the dry season is well on its way. If you have your heart set on an East African safari, May isn't the best time to go, but you'll still see a lot of animals, especially in Tanzania. Make sure the camps and lodges you wish to go to are open. You should be able to get some excellent discounts.
• June: Southern Africa is heading into its best safari period by June. South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia enjoy their high season this time of year. Be prepared for some chilly nights and bring a jacket for the early morning drives.
• July - September: Take your pick of destination from July to September. Every major safari destination is primed for business. Kenya's Masai Mara lays out the green carpet for millions of migrating wildebeest. This is the time for those spectacular river crossings with the crocodiles lying in wait for feeble wildebeest to stumble into their watering jaws. Southern African parks are dry and packed with diversity which you can enjoy from your lodge bar overlooking a waterhole. Since this is also when the northern hemisphere takes their summer vacation, parks can get crowded and booked up well in advance. If you're looking for a budget safari, try a different season.
• October: Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Tanzania are the best places for a safari in October. The small rainy season has usually not arrived yet and the months of dry weather makes game viewing very rewarding.
• November: While Southern Africa begins its rainy season with significant heat and humidity, Zambia is still a good destination for a safari because of a unique wildlife event that takes place in Liuwa Plain National Park. A smaller version of the great East African migration takes place, and for safari aficionados, this can be very exciting to witness. Unfortunately, the rest of Zambia's parks during this time aren't at their peak, but game viewing is still fair. Northern Tanzania is the best place to go on safari in November, as the migrating herds make their way back to the Serengeti plains. If you're a birder, Botswana's Okavango Delta begins to fill up with migrating birds this month, starting their breeding season (which lasts until March).
• December: East Africa reigns once again as the best safari destination if you'd like to spend Christmas in the bush. Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda enjoy some dry weather and excellent game viewing.

Best Times to See Specific Animals

• Gorillas are actually a year-round attraction since their habitat has been reduced so significantly, they couldn't roam far even if they wanted to. However, tracking gorillas is hard at the best of times, and during the rainy season, the steep paths and mud can make it almost impossible to manage. Very heavy rain also makes it more difficult to take good photos, and since you only have an hour with the gorillas, it would be a shame not to get a good snapshot or two. The main rainy seasons in Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC are from March to April and October to November.
• Chimpanzee safaris can be found in Western Tanzania and Uganda. Like gorilla safaris, they can take place year-round but the rainy season makes walking in the forests a little tougher, and the photo opportunities aren't as good as in the dry season (July through October and December). However, the rain also means the chimpanzees don't have to roam too far to find water, and they are easier to locate (February-June, November-mid December).
• Whales: South Africa offers some of the world's best whale watching especially if you don't fancy going out on a boat, but would like to see them from the shore. The best time to view whales is from June to November when the Cape coast comes alive with hundreds of southern-right whales. You can also see humpbacks, Bryde's whales, and orcas.
• Birds: The best time to see birds in Southern Africa is between November and March. South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Angola, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi are all excellent destinations for birders, and many birding safaris are available. In East Africa, the best time to go birding is January through March. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Ethiopia are all popular birding destinations. West Africa also offers a huge and exciting variety of birds, the best time to visit Cameroon, the Gambia, and other destinations are during the European winter from November to March.

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