Where to go on safari in April

This is when most of East Africa is in the midst of its long rains – weather can be unpredictable but beautifully dramatic and the Great Migration is in full flow, travelling north through the Serengeti. In the popular safari areas in Southern Africa, the majority of the heavy rains have stopped and the temperatures have cooled from the intensity during the height of summer. The bushveld is simply stunning at this time of year, lush and green – which can make wildlife spotting a little challenging but the birdlife is prolific.

In Botswana, the rivers are full, making it a special time to visit the Okavango Delta. And the mighty Victoria Falls in Zambia/Zimbabwe will be at its powerful peak.

Botswana

Throughout Botswana the rainfall is coming to an end and the Okavango Delta begins to flood, becoming arguably one of the most beautiful places in Africa. Picking the right camp will play an integral role in your safari experience here so it’s worth speaking with an expert. The impala rut is in full flow which makes for a fascinating experience as the sleek antelope vie for dominance over harems of females.

Although it is the shoulder season in the rest of Northern Botswana, The Central Kalahari Game Reserve comes into its own. Soon after the rains and before it gets too hot and dry a lot of the wildlife tends to concentrate feeding on lush grasses in the valleys. During the peak dry seasons, food becomes scarce and the wildlife disperses. Night-time and morning temperatures tend to be low, however daytime temperatures are 30+ which is ideal for extended periods of activity before it gets too warm.

Tanzania

April might be a rainy season with sporadic thunder-filled down pours but don’t let this deter you as it does with many people. Travelling to Tanzania and East Africa during this time of year means less crowds and you’ll only share the wilderness with the wildlife. The extinct volcano of the Ngorogoro Crater will be a carpet of yellow and purple flower and teaming with wildlife, simply idyllic.

Zimbabwe and Zambia

The powerful Zambezi River will be fully charged by the summer rains as it thunderously pours over the world-famous Victoria Falls, throwing vast clouds of mist in to the air making it one of the best seasons to visit this wonder of the natural world.

In Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park, this is the beginning of the dry season and arguably one of the most beautiful times to experience these stunning reserves as the wildlife begins to congregate around waterholes.

South Africa

It’s now mid-Autumn in South Africa which only lasts for a short period. The once thick vegetation begins to draw back exposing more wildlife which has now begun to congregate more and more around waterholes. It’s a fantastic time to experience the infamous Kruger National Park and the private concessions of the Sabi Sands. The days are beginning to cool which in turn means the wildlife is more active, creating more opportunities to spot it.

Namibia

The coming of April marks the end of the rainy season. Warm, dry and sunny, an ideal time to visit Namibia with the air largely clear from dust, this is considered to be Namibia at it’s most beautiful as the normally totally orange sands of the arid deserts are interspersed with patches of vibrant greens and brightly coloured flowers. Although not the best time for wildlife viewing as there is still plenty of water to be found, the birdlife and striking landscapes more than make up for it.

Madagascar

Madagascar in April brings rays of sunshine after the heavy rains and cyclone season. With such a diverse and unique ecosystem, Madagascar offers breath taking natural beauty, white sand beaches, beautiful rainforests… and of course… extraordinary wildlife. This is the only place in the world where you will see lemurs in their natural environment as they roam the emerald-green rainforests packed full of brightly coloured reptiles and birds.

Madagascar is also a splendid destination if you are wanting to tick whales off from your wildlife bucket list. Nature is in full bloom at this time of year, with few tourists – it is probably one of the best times of year to travel to this remarkable island.

Mauritius

April is one of the best months to visit Mauritius. With nice warm days and cooler evenings and a great sea temperature this is a very popular month for families looking for an Easter break.

For more inspiration, take a look at our 26 favourite safari holidays, our best African honeymoon ideas or our top family safari holidays.

Planning a safari holiday? Give our friendly experts a call on 01768 603 715 or fill in our enquiry form.