Winter signals the start of the African safari season. The drier weather means thinner vegetation and more concentrated water sources, making this prime time for an African safari! Here are our top picks for destinations and lodges for African travel in June and July.
African travel in June: Safari, safari and more safari
African Travel in June and July
1. Kruger National Park, South Africa
The Big 5 safari mecca of southern Africa, the Kruger National Park, sits at the top of nearly every African bucket list. Big game is plentiful here – and even the very elusive leopard makes regular appearances. The region also boasts many private concessions, where luxury and exclusive experiences such as night safaris, walking safaris, and following the animals off-road are all allowed, unlike in the much busier public parks.
Although the Kruger region is an excellent year-round destination, the peak season is June to September. During the dry winter months, game viewing is excellent, maximising opportunities for sightings.
There are few better places on Earth to see big game than in the Kruger National Park
Our Favourite Property: Silvan Safari
From its inception, Silvan was envisioned as a transformative sanctuary, transcending the typical notion of the African bush, surpassing the norm and transforming it into something exceptional. It’s no surprise that this haven set in a leadwood forest is a multiple winner of the World’s Leading Luxury Lodge title.
Each guest that visits plays a part in the Silvan story. While guests leave forever changed by their experience, they also form part of a greater journey which sees Silvan partner with local communities to help bring the Silvan experience to life, protecting this special place for generations to come.
Silvan Safari was voted World's Leading Luxury Lodge for the fourth consecutive year in 2021
2. Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania
The Selous Game Reserve may not be as well-known as its more famous neighbours but still packs quite a punch. If you want a quieter safari experience, this is definitely the place for you. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can enjoy spectacular wildlife sightings and views at this hidden gem of Tanzania. Africa’s largest game reserve, Selous, is home to an astounding population of animals, birds and plant species that are sure to delight visitors.
The best time to visit Selous Game Reserve is from June to September, when the watering holes are full, and water is scarcer elsewhere, luring animals to congregate around them. Furthermore, guests from cooler climates also find the milder weather far more comfortable than the hot African summer.
Sunset over Menze River Selous National Park
Our Favourite Property: Siwandu Camp
Siwandu Camp's history of withstanding floods, tornadoes and other natural phenomena echoes the enduring nature of the African landscape. Situated on Lake Nzerakera's shores in Tanzania, it will attract the most ardent of nature and safari-lovers.
It comes as no surprise that game-viewing is available from Siwandu Camp. Not only from guided game drives but from the tented camp itself. And the two intimate camps come with every luxury you could want.
Siwandu Camp is sheltered in a grove of palms on the shores of Lake Nzerakera, Image Credit: Selous Safari Company
3. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
This incredible wildlife sanctuary is known as one of the greatest globally, and upon visiting, it's very apparent why. South Luangwa is densely packed with wildlife, including over 400 bird species, offering the ultimate safari experience. However, it's most famous for being "the birthplace of the walking safari".
The dry season is the perfect time to visit South Luangwa. Animals congregate along the river and make sightings easy to predict. Therefore, June to September are the best months to take advantage of these conditions.
South Luangwa is famous for being the home of the walking safari, Image Credit: Puku Ridge
Our Favourite Property: Time + Tide Chinzombo
Unparalleled luxury awaits on the shores of the Luangwa River at Time + Tide Chinzombo. The canopy of ancient trees overhead provides the peace, tranquillity and intimacy with nature that comes standard at Time + Tide camps. The private plunge pools, viewing decks, and minimalist, naturally inspired décor offer an all-encompassing safari feel served with lashings of luxury.
The nearby river attracts a variety of wildlife and a chance for guests to enjoy this incredible setting from the comfort of the lodge. Its location also allows easy access to the South Luangwa National Park. A range of activities takes full advantage of its natural setting, including guided safaris and select evenings a year where guests can spend a night under the African stars, covered only by a mosquito net.
Chinzombo is the most luxurious way to enjoy South Luangwa, Image Credit: Chinzombo Safari Camp
4. Etosha National Park, Namibia
The Bantu word "Etosha" translates to "great white place", referencing the giant mirage-inducing pan that gave the park its name. Among the largest national parks anywhere on earth, it's famous for the incredible abundance and diversity of wildlife found here, despite its harsh landscape. Adding to its popularity, Etosha is one of the most easily accessible and adored places to visit anywhere in southern Africa.
In past millennia the Etosha pan was an ancient inland sea. While it may no longer be an ocean, the summer rains result in a layer of algae forming across the pan's surface, attracting flocks of flamingos and numerous other bird species. Etosha's permanent water sources become crowded with competing wildlife during the dry season, making this the perfect time for game viewing.
During the drier months, water holes at Etosha become a hive of activity
Our Favourite Property: Ongava Tented Camp
Etosha's best-kept secret is, without doubt, the secluded Ongava Tented Camp. Situated on the neighbouring Ongava Game Reserve (just a 10-minute drive from Etosha), the camp gives guests the best game-viewing both Etosha and Ongava have to offer – with the luxury of exclusivity and privacy.
Ongava Tented Camp's luxury tents overlook an active watering hole that allows guests to indulge in game-viewing from the comfort of their tent. Unusual and rare species visitors can look forward to seeing include gemsbok, springbok, Damara dik-dik, Hartmann's mountain zebra and black-faced impala.
Sleep under canvas in the wild, Image Credit: Ongava Tented Camp
5. Okavango Delta, Botswana
The watery tendrils of the Okavango Delta branch out, weaving a labyrinth filled to the brim with game-viewing opportunities. The famous Big 5 calls this special UNESCO World Heritage Site home. And you'll quickly see why the Okavango Delta is such a popular destination, with its endless floodplains, riverine woodland, lush forests and cloud-strewn sky reflecting on the serene channels.
Safari activities in the Okavango Delta are centred around the water. Exploring marshy waterways by boat and even traditional mokoro (a dugout canoe) offers a fresh perspective on a safari. However, you aren't only limited to the water, as traditional game-viewing vehicles and walking safaris are also options. Those looking to take in the entirety of this fantastic destination can take to the skies to enjoy a bird's-eye view from a helicopter.
One of the most fascinating aspects of travelling to this area is how no visit is ever quite the same. Fluctuating water levels, varying seasons, and the changes they bring about means that this landscape is forever shifting and changing. And along with it is the presence of various wildlife species that thrive under each set of conditions.
Taking to the skies offers an amazing perspective of the Okavango Delta
Favourite Property: Sable Alley
Step into a wild wonderland featuring yawning hippos, overhanging trees, and the tranquil sounds of nature on repeat. Sable Alley in northern Botswana is the perfect escape into serenity. Set next to a lagoon mere moments from the Okavango Delta's Moremi Game Reserve, wildlife wanders throughout the landscape day and night.
Each of Sable Alley's luxurious tents is nestled between the trees and offers uninterrupted views of the lagoon from a private viewing deck. The modern yet earthy design creates a truly immersive experience.
Sable Alley's lagoonside setting makes for sensational wildlife viewing, Image Credit: Sable Alley
6. Seychelles, East Africa
Seychelles lies off the East African coast and comprises over 100 islands. White beaches and shimmering cerulean waters hug granite-backed hills covered in thick, tropical forest. Simply put, Seychelles is the very embodiment of an island paradise and is always near the top of the list for African travel in July.
For travellers wanting a taste of Seychellois culture and to do some sightseeing, a tour through the island of Mahé is a good start. Those seeking nothing but sun and sand can board a ferry to Praslin to stroll along one of the world's most beautiful beaches. Or, if you're seeking pure luxury, fly by helicopter into any of the most exclusive resorts, each found on their own private island. There's just nothing better!
The warm, crystal clear ocean is filled with an astounding array of marine life, making water-based activities a highlight for any visitor to Seychelles. Slip beneath the waves when diving and snorkelling or peer down at the underwater world on a glass-bottomed boat cruise. Guests can also take in the rich history of Seychelles on cultural excursions. That is, of course, if you can bring yourself to leave the beach!
Welcome to paradise, Image Credit: Dronepicr
Our Favourite Property: Constance Lemuria
On the secluded coast of the island of Praslin, you'll find Constance Lemuria. Graced with white sandy beaches, warm ocean waters, and lush vegetation, this tropical paradise is well worth visiting.
Constance Lemuria truly has something to offer everyone, including the only 18-hole golf course in Seychelles, a luxury spa and a kids club all available to ensure guests can make the most of their stay. The modern styling elegantly paired with natural materials provides a warm and tropical ambience throughout this luxurious resort.
A tropical island dream, Image Credit: Constance Lemuria
7. Amboseli National Park, Kenya
Savannah extending as far as the eye can see and vibrant oases of swamps teeming with life collectively form the Amboseli National Park. Set against the iconic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro's expansive base and snow-covered peaks, this is one of Africa's most spectacularly scenic destinations.
While visitors can expect to see an assortment of large game and bird species, getting up close to herds of free-ranging elephants is what Amboseli is most famous for. These gentle giants live among the semi-nomadic Maasai people, who act as custodians of the land. You can learn more about them during village tours.
Where wildlife roams free
Our Favourite Property: Tortilis Camp
Tortilis Camp boasts the famous view of Mount Kilimanjaro visitors to Amboseli National park dream of. With 16 Maasai-inspired safari tents, the camp offers a luxurious sanctuary for guests to take in the magnificence at their doorstep.
Located in the Maasai-owned and managed Kitirua Conservancy, Tortilis Camp is intrinsically connected to local communities. Local guides impart their expert knowledge of the region on game drives, walking safaris and cultural interactions at local villages.
Find refuge in the wild's embrace, Image Credit: Elewana Collection
8. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Although the Serengeti is home to the Big 5, it's most famous for being host to the Great Migration. This grand annual phenomenon sees millions of wildebeest, followed by gazelle and zebra, set off in search of greener pastures, running the gauntlet of predators along the way.
Whilst the sheer size and scale of the herds are a remarkable sight, the predators that follow and lurk on their heels waiting for an opportunity to pounce make this journey sure to be packed with exhilarating wildlife sightings.
July sees the herds move into the Grumeti region and the Great Migration is in full swing. When it comes to iconic African experiences, few come close to witnessing the Great Migration, therefore making this a prime destination for African travel in July.
Wildebeest storm the open plains of the Serengeti
Our Favourite Property: Singita Sabora Tented Camp
The elegance of Sabora Tented Camp is in stark contrast to its untamed surroundings, promising "Out of Africa" style glamour in the Serengeti. Spend your days on safari, swimming or enjoying a spa treatment at the camp, while your evenings are reserved for dinner under the canopy of a lantern-bejewelled acacia tree.
Found in the Grumeti Reserve, an integral part of the Serengeti ecosystem, Singita Sabora is ideally placed for visitors hoping to witness the Great Migration. However, the Serengeti and Grumeti reserves are year-round safari destinations thanks to the heady lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and zebra populations, promising guests a consistently exceptional wildlife-viewing experience.
Safari heaven at Singita Sabora Tented Camp, Image Credit: Singita
African Travel in June and July is Safari Prime-Time
Africa's winter months are the peak season for visiting our continent's most popular destinations. As a result, African travel in June and July promises exceptional game viewing, temperate climates and some of the most spectacular natural phenomena on the planet. All this and the fact that it's the summer holidays for those visiting from the northern hemisphere make this time of year extremely popular.
What destinations and lodges for African travel in June and July have found their way onto your bucket list? Contact our Travel Experts to bring your dream safari itinerary to life. We can't wait to welcome you to Africa!
