Game viewing in Africa is at its best from June to August each year. This is the famous dry season when the grass is short and sparse, making it easier to spot animals from a distance.
It’s also the best time to visit Botswana’s Okavango Delta. The floodwaters have peaked, and thinning vegetation ensures maximum visibility.
And don’t forget the chance to embark on once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking in Rwanda. The long dry season promises optimal hiking conditions and the lowest risk of malaria.
Hoping to head to the desert or the Delta? The bush or the mountains? Maybe a combination of Africa’s best bits?
Discover our pick of last-minute summer 2023 tours and getaways to get excited about.
South Africa, Victoria Falls & Chobe
Why visit in June – August?: A South Africa, Vic Falls and Chobe combo vacation is best enjoyed during the countries’ dry winter period. At this time of year, there are endless game-viewing opportunities, warm days and cool nights, and at Victoria Falls, there’s still plenty of water crashing over the precipice following the abundant summer rains.
Why this tour?: You combine cosmopolitan Cape Town with one of the Seven Wonders of the World and plenty of time spent replenishing your soul in the bush. There’s no wonder why this tour is one of our bestsellers!
What to expect: Start in Cape Town at the lavish One&Only Cape Town right on the V&A Waterfront. Enjoy massages and other spoils at the spa between your private guided tours and personal adventures.
You’ll then be swept away for memorable safari moments at Londolozi Private Game Reserve, a secluded reserve inside the broader Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which is home to the Big 5 and plenty of other wildlife.
From there, you’ll settle in at Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma, right on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zambia and a mere 10-minute walk from the ultimate highlight of your trip: Vic Falls.
Finally, end your southern African adventure with sundowner cruises and elephant sightings on Botswana’s beloved Chobe River – the main water source for large breeding herds of African bush elephants during this time of year.
Luxurious Sabi Sands Safari & River Adventure
Why visit in June – August?: As mentioned, the southern hemisphere’s dry winter period is ideal for game viewing. It’s also when the malaria risk is at its lowest.
Why this tour?: See more of southern Africa, including the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve and the winding ribbon of water that is the Chobe River.
What to expect: The adventure begins in the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve – the first-ever private nature reserve established in South Africa. It’s crawling with the Big 5 and lots of other wildlife, such as zebra, giraffe and various antelope.
You’ll then fly to Zambia for a close-up encounter with Victoria Falls. The Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge is your base, less than 20 miles upstream of this natural wonder of the world. During your stay, you can look forward to a signature canoe trip and picnic, a village walk and gardens tour, and a relaxed sunset cruise.
To conclude, you’ll escape to the Chobe River and float gently along it, courtesy of the Zambezi Queen Houseboat. Watch in awe as massive elephant herds quench their thirst on the banks, all while you lap up the luxury on board.
Diverse Namibia – A Photographer’s Delight
Why visit in June – August?: You’re bound to see – and snap – plenty of wildlife during the dry season. It’s also shoulder season in Swakopmund, so even though the days are warm and the skies are clear, you won’t have to share the beach with large crowds.
Why this tour?: Revel in Namibia’s best sides (in every possible direction) and capture the beauty of its diverse landscapes. In this tour itinerary, you’ll embark on adventures in Sossusvlei, Swakopmund, Damaraland and the Ongava Private Game Reserve, camera at the ready.
What to expect: Settle into your stylish chalet at Kulala Adventurer Camp, offering sprawling views of the valley and surrounding mountains. You’ll start your vacation by spending some time on the iconic red dunes in Sossusvlei – including Big Daddy Dune and Dune 45 – keeping your eyes peeled for the desert-adapted wildlife.
The coastal city of Swakopmund is your next stop, with a stay at local favourite, Hansa Hotel, featuring two restaurants, a bar and a terrace. Prepare for a scenic catamaran cruise from Walvis Bay – look out for the friendly dolphins and seals!
Photographing the Spitzkoppe in Damaraland is another guaranteed highlight of your trip. Here, you’ll be treated to nature walks, game drives and the ultimate in luxury at Damaraland Adventurer Camp.
Your getaway concludes at the Ongava Private Game Reserve, famed for being the highest-density wildlife area in Namibia.
Desert to Delta Safari
Why visit in June – August?: Temperatures are comfortable, and the Okavango Delta’s floodwaters peak between June and August each year.
Why this tour?: Travel to two southern African gems – Namibia and Botswana – on one awe-inspiring vacation. This tour itinerary is 15 days, ensuring you have plenty of time to soak up both countries’ most notable sights and experiences.
What to expect: The journey begins with Namibia’s premier attraction, Sossusvlei, and a stay at Wilderness Little Kulala. Here, you can marvel at the towering dunes, go sandboarding, and savour scenic desert drives in search of wildlife.
A couple of days later, you’ll travel to Swakopmund for the chance to take in jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert side by side.
Take a break from the city with an escape to the ultra-remote Hartmann Valley in the extreme northwest, home to the Himba people. Like Swakopmund, this location promises an unusual juxtaposition of habitats. The Kunene River nurtures a band of lush vegetation amidst one of the driest deserts on Earth. At the same time, sea mist creeps in from the coast.
Thereafter, settle down at Little Ongava Camp inside the Ongava Private Game Reserve for world-class game viewing on drives and nature walks.
Finally, take in the hustle and bustle in the country’s capital, Windhoek, and enjoy a one-night stay at The Olive Exclusive All-Suite Hotel.
The next leg is in northern Botswana, with a stay in the Linyanti Concession region, stretching across the Kwando-Linyanti River system – yet another opportunity to admire Africa’s wonderful wildlife.
Your vacation ends with four days spent diving into nature at the Okavango Delta, with mokoro (traditional canoe) rides, game drives, nature walks, birdwatching and an endless supply of luxury at two premier camps: Wilderness Jao and Wilderness Vumbura Plains.
Untamed Botswana Fly-In Safari
Why visit in June – August?: Wildlife visibility is at its best both in the Okavango Delta and inside the various reserves.
Why this tour?: Botswana is a family safari favourite famous for its wildlife and brimming with incredible reserves and national parks, each with its own unique charm. Why not experience all the best ones in one epic vacation? This fly-in safari takes you to the blissful Chobe Riverfront, the Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta’s winding waterways, Moremi Game Reserve and Makgadikgadi National Park.
What to expect: You’ll start at Chobe Game Lodge in one of the four luxury suites, where you’ll enjoy a few days of game drives, birdwatching and immersive river safaris.
From there, you’ll fly to Savuti in the Chobe National Park for even more opportunities to spot game and de-stress, both in the sunshine and under the stars in front of a crackling fire pit.
Moremi Game Reserve and four-star Camp Moremi are next on the itinerary. This reserve is nestled in the east of the Okavango Delta and is known for its especially diverse ecosystem. Keep an eye out for the rare sitatunga and lechwe antelope before transferring to Camp Okavango on the remote Nxaragha Island.
Finally, you’ll journey to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park and settle near the Boteti River, a popular water source amongst the fascinating desert-adapted animals.
Fair Trade Kenya Safari & Beach
Why visit in June – August?: The Great Migration, Kenya’s best-known attraction, is in full swing in the Masai Mara from June to early October.
Why this tour?: If you, like 80% of other travellers, believe in the importance of sustainable travel, this itinerary is for you. It features a collection of Fair Trade-accredited lodges in Kenya, giving you peace of mind that you’re doing your bit for the environment and the local communities you visit. Plus, you get a bush and beach combo getaway to maximise your vacation.
What to expect: Spend your first night in Kenya’s cosmopolitan capital, Nairobi, before going to the Chyulu Hills National Park for gorgeous views of Mount Kilimanjaro and various outdoor activities, from mountain climbing to birdwatching and camping. Settle in at Campi ya Kanzi, and don’t miss the chance to explore the longest lava tube in the world.
The next leg of your trip is in the Masai Mara, where you’ll enjoy three nights at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp. This stay includes day and night game drives, guided bush walks, sundowners and hearty bush dinners.
Your final stop is Watamu, a small coastal town where Fair Trade works to improve living standards for local farmers and workers. Here, you’ll surely relish soaking up some sun on the sandy beaches. If you manage to tear yourself away from the cosy spot on your towel for a few hours, be sure to explore the Watamu Coral Gardens, a stretch of coral heads in Watamu Marine National Park.
Rwandan Adventure
Why visit in June – August?: Weather conditions are perfect for hiking and gorilla trekking from June to September.
Why this tour?: Lovingly known as ‘The Land of a Thousand Hills’, Rwanda promises breath-taking scenery, unforgettable cultural experiences and, of course, the chance to go on a guided, life-changing trek in search of elusive, endangered mountain gorillas.
What to expect: Your Rwandan adventure kicks off in the capital city of Kigali, where you’ll relax at The Retreat by Heaven following your long-haul flight.
The next day, you’ll visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial & Museum for a deep dive into the country’s tragic history before heading to Akagera National Park, Africa’s largest protected wetland and the last refuge for savannah-adapted species in the country. Wilderness Magashi is your base, perched on the edge of Lake Rwanyakazinga and offering 6,000 exclusive-use hectares (14,826 acres). Here, you’ll embark on boating excursions and game drives and participate in birdwatching and fishing activities if you wish.
Volcanoes National Park is at the heart of your trip – and is a guaranteed highlight. This is your opportunity to set off on a golden monkey and gorilla trekking expedition, as well as enjoy a stop-off at Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to get to know the locals.
The final stop is the Nyungwe Forest National Park, where you’ll revel in the unsurpassed hospitality of One&Only Nyungwe House and enjoy chimpanzee trekking and an adrenalin-inducing canopy walk across three bridges and three towers.
There’s no better time to explore Africa. Contact team GILTEDGE to book one of these exceptional tours, or let us tailor one to fit in with the criteria of your ultimate African adventure.