Where to go on safari in August

August is the heart of the dry season with the best game viewing opportunities throughout the continent. The Great Migration is moving towards Kenya for the famed Mara River crossings, which is considered to be one of the finest wildlife spectacles on the planet. But don’t forget about Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Zambia’s Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa National Parks and in Zimbabwe, Hwange and Mana Pools all of which are simply superb during these months.

Sao Tome and Principe

August is a magnificent time of year to visit Sao Tome and Principe - whale watching is superb, with numerous species such as humpback, orca and many dolphins being spotted along the north eastern shores. The good weather means some great opportunities to explore these wonderous little islands but for something a little bit different and cultural: A genuine epic street theatre, the Auto de Floripes or Feast of St Lawrence. This is the number one cultural attraction in Principe and it involves the entire population of the island in the re-enactment of the battle between Christians and Moors. It happens one day a year and goes on all day.

South Africa

Not your usual safari-destination but driving through South Africa’s Fynbos along South Africa’s famed Garden Route between late August through to mid-October is remarkable. It is awash, painted with brightly coloured flowers. Fluorescent oranges, pinks, purples, yellows and white stretching as far as the eye can see – it’s a vivid display of colour and signifies the arrival of Spring in the area.

There are over 4,000 species of flowers in the area – no wonder it’s been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And if you get to the Hopefield Fynbos Show, make sure you try ‘waterblommetjiebredie’ which is a dish usually consisting of a meat and the waterblommetjie flowers found in the marshy areas in the Western Cape.

Zimbabwe

August is regarded as peak safari season across much of Africa, with visitors heading from all over the world flocking to enjoy the amazing game viewing that the cooler temperatures and dry conditions allow for. In many destinations these factors also mean large crowds, high prices and challenges finding space, even when booking months in advance. Zimbabwe's re-birth as a top African safari destination has added another dimension to where you can go, so experience this amazing destination now, before the crowds return and prices are pushed up to equal their neighbouring countries.

Hwange and Mana Pools are just an example of the marvellous wildlife destinations in Zimbabwe, with the latter now becoming more accessible in August due to falling water levels and being filled with immense herds of game and the predators which follow.

And of course, don’t forget about the wonderous Victoria Falls which Zimbabwe shares with Zambia.

Zambia

Kafue National Park is Zambia’s hidden gem even though it is the largest in the country. This magnificent wildlife area of Busanga Plains is inaccessible outside of June to October due to high water levels. Traveling at this time of year can be richly rewarding with intense wildlife sightings and interactions between predator and prey. Balloon safaris are also possible here what more could you possibly ask for…

Kenya and Tanzania

The height of the Great Migration river crossing in northern Serengeti, Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. One of the greatest wildlife shows on earth is in full swing and if this is high on your bucket-list then you will need to book early as it’s a very popular time of year in both Kenya and Tanzania.

You will be taken on an emotional rollercoaster during the river crossings; as the suspense builds you can almost feel the trepidation until one wildebeest has the courage to make a dash for the other side. There’s no doubt that you will be filled with excitement, heartache, adrenaline and joy as you witness mass herds of wildebeest and zebra frantically plunging through crocodile infested river waters, with the survivors still needing to outwit and outpace the large number of predators who lie in wait on the other side.

Southern Tanzania offers something a little different. If you’re wishing to avoid the crowds the vastness of Selous and Ruaha offer a remote and wild safari experience. These often overlooked destinations have spectacular wildlife and offer a true sense of being in the heart of the African wilderness.

Take a look at our Wildebeest Migration guide.

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.