“What’s the best time of year to visit the Kruger National Park?” As a year round destination, its tempting to answer, “Anytime of the year is magic!” And it’s true but if you push for an answer from anybody who knows the lay of the land their likely favourite will be, “July.” The Kruger is famous for its gargantuan size which is why you’ll probably find yourself, hand in the air, ready with another question. We’re one step ahead of you. The answer is Sabi Sand Private Reserve and while we’re at it we’ll get even more specific and direct you to Londolozi. Now that the details are out of the way, let’s return to the benefits of winter in the Sabi Sand…
The seventh month sees the summer rains subside and the temperature ease, replacing hot days with warm ones. The water that’s plentiful in the early months of the year due to seasonal thunderstorms becomes increasingly scarce from May and precious by July. This rarity is Winter’s secret weapon… The absence of rainfall makes the wildlife’s whereabouts slightly more predictable (if such a word can ever be used to describe a wild place). The dry conditions force antelope, zebra and wildebeest to plan their day around their inevitable thirst, resulting in concentrations of game at dams and waterholes. Predators follow. The cooler conditions encourage lions and leopards to break their summer habit of lazing in the shade, giving guests the chance to witness these magnificent cats moving – with purpose – well into the day.
It is for these reasons that the winter months have earned a reputation for superior game viewing. The increased movement of both prey and predators makes for interesting encounters as – sooner or later – the opponents meet. Game drives mimic the animals by focusing their route on pans and waterholes and the strategy proves rewarding with spectacular sightings…
Early July also brings on the first signs of cold nights – at least by African standards. The chill in the evening air is doubled when sitting on an open land rover but this too is part of July’s allure because there’s something special about layering up before early morning drives and then slowly peeling off jackets and jerseys as you feel the sun claim the day. The wardrobe change is a feature of the evenings too, except in reverse: you may start the game drive wearing a t-shirt but you’ll be hard pressed to stay that way, especially with a blanket within arm’s reach. July is thus the best of both worlds… It’s a warm afternoon that lulls you into a nap and eases you into your private plunge pool and then it morphs into an evening cool enough to leave you longing for the open flames of the boma fire.
Although July is just around the corner, we still have limited availability. Contact one of our expert consultants to start planning your trip during this esteemed month. Our CEO, David Ryan recently returned to Londolozi. Read what he got up to here. For further information about when to visit other top Africa destinations, consult our calender: When to Travel to Africa.
Cover image taken by Talley Smith