“I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up and was not happy.” Ernest Hemingway
Although this is undeniably accurate… the question: “When is the best time to go on safari?” is one that we regularly get from our travellers. So we sat down with co-founder John Holley to get his thoughts on this. John has spent a great deal of his life in the bush and was a ranger at Londolozi in the Sabi Sands for 2 years. Here’s are his thoughts:
When is the best time to visit the bush?
John: “Every time of year has its own unique elements and its own special beauty. For example in September the weather is great and there is little water so game density is higher.”
When is your favourite time in the bush?
John: “For me: the second half of November and early part of December, is the best time.”
Can you give us a few reasons why late November/early December is the best time for you?
John: “Firstly, I like it because it has lots to offer from a photographic point of view. Generally the first rains fall in October so there are beautiful green hues and lots of fresh young shoots coming through. Also the bush isn’t too dense so it is easier to see the wildlife. It is amazing to be able to capture your shot have that sense of space and burst of bright green in your photos.”
“I love birds and by this time the summer migrants are back so the birdlife is phenomenal.”
“The bush is alive! The impala are usually giving birth around the last week of November/early December. It is incredible to see the lovely little impala lambs standing out in the lush green surroundings. wildebeest and bushbuck are also calving so there is so much to see.”
“Due to the teeming antelope, the predator activity at this time is insane! You are bound to have some incredible sightings that will keep you on the edge of your seat. ”
“Lastly, you may be lucky enough to experience a real African thunderstorm and that in itself is a wonder to behold.”
“Southern Africa in late November/early December is tropical, vibrant and abundant. It really is one of the best times to visit as it is just before the rush of the holidays. Don’t wait for Christmas – come now!”