Seasons of Safari: Discover the Magic of the Greater Kruger Year-Round

Planning a safari in South Africa? One of the most common questions we hear at Ngama Tented Safari Lodge is: “When is the best time to go?” The truth is, the Greater Kruger National Park area offers something extraordinary in every season. Whether you're drawn by dramatic summer skies or crisp winter wildlife viewing, there’s no wrong time to experience the African bush — only different kinds of magic.

Let’s take a journey through the safari seasons of the year, from rainfall and wildlife patterns to travel tips and photographic treasures.

🌿 Summer (December to February)
Seasonal Style: Rainy Season | Green Season | Birthing Season | Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Tourism: Holiday Season (December) | Low Season (January & February)

Summer in the Lowveld is alive with energy. Thunderstorms roll across the sky in the late afternoon, transforming the landscape into a lush, green paradise. This is the birthing season for many species — impala, wildebeest, and warthogs all welcome their young, which makes for heartwarming sightings (and excellent predator action too).

It's also prime time for birdwatching. Migratory birds return in dazzling colours, filling the bush with calls and flutters. The abundance of food during this time attracts everything from Broad-billed rollers, a variety of Cuckoo species, to the iconic woodland kingfishers.

While the heat and humidity can rise during the day, game drives in the early morning and late afternoon remain pleasant. Just bring a light rain jacket — you might catch a classic African thunderstorm while sipping sundowners.

Buffalo wallowing in a waterhole after a summer storm

🍂 Autumn (March to May)
Seasonal Style: Mild & Transitional | Clear Mornings & Comfortable Days
Tourism: Shoulder Season

Autumn in the Greater Kruger is often overlooked — and that makes it one of the best-kept secrets of the safari calendar, in fact we rate it as the best time of the year to go on safari! As the rains ease and temperatures mellow, the landscape remains green but becomes easier to navigate, with grass beginning to thin.

Game is still abundant, and wildlife movements become more predictable. The weather is near-perfect: warm days and cool evenings, ideal for outdoor dining and mid-day naps under the shade of a marula tree.

With fewer travelers than in peak season, autumn is also a fantastic time for those seeking a more private experience without compromising on sightings or comfort.

Autumn offers gentle days and intimate encounters - a safari sweet spot.

❄️ Winter (June to August)
Seasonal Style: Dry Season | Peak Wildlife Viewing
Tourism: High Season (especially during Northern Hemisphere summer holidays)

Winter in the Lowveld is famous for one thing: spectacular wildlife viewing. With little to no rain, vegetation thins out and water sources become scarce — drawing animals out into the open and around waterholes.

The days are crisp and clear, with blue skies and golden sunsets that seem to last forever. Early mornings can be chilly (think scarves, beanies and warm coffee on the game vehicle), but the cool air quickly gives way to sunny, comfortable afternoons.

Photographers love this time of year for the clean, dust-filtered light and the sheer visibility of wildlife. If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing a leopard lounging in a tree or a herd of elephants at a waterhole — this is your moment.

Winter brings the wild into focus — clear skies, open plains, and unforgettable sightings.

🌸 Spring (September to November)
Seasonal Style: Reawakening | Blossoming Bushveld
Tourism: High Season (September/ October) leading into Shoulder Season (November)

Spring is when the bush begins to transform before your eyes. After the dry winter, the first rains bring renewal. Trees bloom, fresh grass pushes through the earth, and the air carries a sense of anticipation.

This is a time of rejuvenation — for the landscape and for the animals. Wildlife begins to move in new patterns, anticipating the rainy season. Flowers bloom, insects return, and color returns to the veld. It’s also a great time to visit before the heat of summer sets in.

Expect comfortable temperatures, longer days, great wildlife sightings and vegetation.

Spring awakens the bush: blossoms, beauty, and signs of new life ahead.

🗓️ When Should You Visit?
Each season in the Greater Kruger offers its own advantages:

Summer (Dec–Feb)

Weather: Hot & rainy
Highlights: Newborn animals, migratory birds
Perks: Green scenery, festive energy

Autumn (Mar–May)

Weather: Mild & dry
Highlights: Thinning vegetation
Perks: Fewer tourists, great temperatures

Winter (Jun–Aug)

Weather: Cool & dry
Highlights: Peak wildlife visibility
Perks: Clear skies, golden sunsets

Spring (Sep–Nov)

Weather: Warm with first rains
Highlights: Bush in bloom, animal activity rising
Perks: Fewer crowds, vibrant scenery

So, when is the best time to visit? The answer is simple: whenever you’re ready. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, photographer, honeymooner, or a first-time adventurer, Ngama Tented Safari Lodge offers immersive safari experiences all year round.

📩 Ready to Plan Your Safari?
Let us help you find your perfect season. Contact us for more information on when to travel, what to pack, and what to expect at Ngama Tented Safari Lodge — where every season tells a different story of the African wild.