A slow safari is all about taking things easy and giving yourself enough time to truly unwind
What is a Slow Safari in Africa?
Slow travel is about lingering longer and revelling in a more exclusive, unhurried experience. However, the term is open to interpretation and could mean something different for everyone.
It can be staying longer at a certain destination to really immerse yourself in its unique environment and attractions. On the other hand, for others, it might be travelling to the quieter corners of the continent, or it can even refer to the type of activities you choose. For example, yoga in the bush, horseback riding, or a walking safari are all great ways to slow down and fully enjoy what that area offers.
Give yourself the time and space to take in all the little moments, Image Credit: Nomad Serengeti Safari Camp
Where to Go for a Slow Safari in Africa
Africa has many safari destinations, and they each look different throughout the year. In some seasons, the landscapes burst into colour, whereas other times, they're golden brown .
But it's not only these topical differences that switch things up. It's in the little nuances, like migratory birds heading to our continent for a change of scenery. Or newborns making their debut in this great, big world.
So, if you deserve a break from your fast-paced life (don't we all?), here's when and where to go for a slow safari in Africa.
Photography opportunities are usually great during quieter seasons, Image Credit: Bianca Johnstone
1. Zoning out in Zambia's World of Wonder
Zambia is well-known for sharing access to Victoria Falls with Zimbabwe. Other than this, it's also best known for being the birthplace of the walking safari. Although we love visiting Zambia, it's still a hidden gem. But that makes it all the more perfect for your slow safari in Africa!
The bat migration is the world's largest mammal migration
When to Go
The peak time to travel to Zambia is between May and October. So, if you want to visit during the quieter season, we recommend you plan your slow safari between November and April, which is the rainy season.
Why you'll love it
- Zambia is lush and green with dramatic skies, plus the bat migration takes place between October and December in Kasanka National Park
- There are many newborn animals around, so you can enjoy adorable sightings of little ones clumsily trying to find their feet, which in turn lures predators so you can see some dramatic hunting scenes
- Birdlife is at its best, with both resident and migratory birds putting on a show
- The Zambezi River's water levels are lower between August and December, which means (if you're brave!) you can swim in nature's most thrilling infinity pool called Devil's Pool
A group on the edge of Devil's Pool, Image Credit: Livingstone Island
2. Slow Seasons in the South African Sun
South Africa is a popular destination for guests from around the world. However, certain seasons are busier than others. What makes South Africa perfect for a slow safari is that you have so many different landscapes and activities within close proximity to one another. So, you don't have to waste any precious time travelling between locations!
Southern right whale breaching
When to Go
South Africa is a great destination to visit throughout the year. However, the peak time to visit Cape Town is from December to February, whereas Kruger National Park's peak time is in the dry season from May to October.
From September to November, South Africa is in full spring mode. Although it's a spectacular time to come to our home country, it's also an underrated time, so perfect for your slow safari in Africa. Another great time to visit is in autumn from March to May. With better availability and deals during these months, you're sure to have a great time!
Why you'll love it
- Spring in South Africa is also when the whales come closer to the shore to calve, so destinations like Hermanus on the Whale Coast offer exceptional sightings of these majestic marine mammals!
- South Africa's landscapes burst into colour during spring, with the West Coast National Park near Cape Town being the most popular place to see fields of flowers
- The weather is more temperate during this time compared to summer and winter
- If you visit Kruger National Park, you can still expect active wildlife but without the many crowds
The West Coast National Park is a spectacular sight during South Africa's spring season
3. Elevated East African Experiences
East Africa's Tanzania and Kenya are so vast you could easily believe you're the only people left on the planet. And with wildlife all around, you can expect different action every day! Therefore, it's one of our favourite destinations for a slow safari, as you can spend days on end in one location.
Although the Great Migration seasons are when most visitors flock to East African destinations like the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, other times of year should not be overlooked as safari sightings are also spectacular.
Indulgent tranquility at Oliver's Camp, Image Credit: Oliver's Camp
When to Go
The peak time to visit East Africa is generally during the dry season, and most people come to see the Great Migration. In Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, the busiest time is around late June to October. In Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve, it's between July and October and from January to March.
Therefore, if you want a quieter experience, Kenya and Tanzania are great between March to May and October to December.
Why you'll love it
- Although the Great Migration is not the main attraction, you can still expect good game viewing all around
- Rutting during this time is quite entertaining to watch as wildlife tries to show each other who's boss
- Migratory birds arrive, making it a great time for birders
- Around December to March, newborn wildlife make their debut in this great, big world
Go on a hot air balloon safari in Kenya to admire the green landscapes from above
4. Digital Detox in Botswana's Remote Lands
Botswana is great for a slow safari year-round, as it's very vast, with few people around at the safari lodges. Many of these have to be reached by boat or small aircraft, so you really escape reality and seek refuge in the heart of the wilderness.
Lush grass and lively wildlife all around
When to Go
Botswana's quieter seasons and what to expect differ depending on where you go. Peak season is generally between July and October, so if you want a safari with fewer other guests around, you should go between November and June.
If you visit during this time, you get great deals, better availability and a more exclusive experience. However, if you book with our Travel Experts, they'll share their first-hand insights to help choose the best time for you to visit Botswana.
Why you'll love it
- Uninterrupted photo opportunities without other guests and vehicles blocking your view – plus the lighting and sky's colours are more vibrant!
- The quieter season might have fewer crowds, but a whole host of wildlife is on the move! The annual zebra migration takes place between December and March through Botswana's Kalahari's Nxai and Makgadikgadi Pans and across the Savuti region of Chobe National Park
- During the rainy season from November to March, landscapes transform into verdant plains
- From October to March, migratory birds all around, making it a paradise for birdwatchers
Birdlife is at its best during Botswana's quieter seasons
Escape to Africa for a Slow Safari
Are you ready to take things easy and put your holiday in slow-mo mode? Need a break from all the demands back home? Reach out to our Travel Experts today, and let's start planning!
Featured Image: Angama Mara
