Where to go on an African safari in August depends on the type of safari you want and, ultimately, your budget. The Great Migration begins to move from the northern Serengeti into Kenya in East Africa, becoming a genuine contender for the most memorable safari experience on the continent. Because the days are clear, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is ideal. August is simply ridiculously good in Southern Africa. Botswana and Zambia, in particular, provide what we consider to be world-class safari experiences.
Timing is critical whether you want to see the Great Wildebeest Migration in East Africa or go on a Big Five African safari in August at the Kruger National Park. Our recommendations are based on our expert knowledge of Africa’s travel seasons.
Tanzania Safari in August
Tanzania in August offers a plethora of options. The Serengeti National Park is a huge draw at this time of year, with the Great Migration taking centre stage as river crossings occur on a daily basis in the park’s northern Lamai/Kogatende region. Tarangire is also the epicentre of the region’s elephant migration. Combining these two migrations is a popular and superior route. The Selous is a large reserve, and at this time of year, the safari crowd is in the Serengeti and Masai Mara, following the Wildebeest Migration. This means you get the best of both worlds — fantastic sightings, as well as enjoying a large portion of the reserve without the crowds.
Botswana Safari in August
During August, Botswana’s most famous parks are at their busiest for game viewing. The Moremi, Chobe, and Linyanti areas are absolutely world-class this month. At any time of year, the concentration of elephants in the Chobe and Linyanti region is unparalleled in Africa. Furthermore, water overflows the floodplains and waterways during the yearly Okavango floods. Reduced dry land regions hard game together and accessible water sources attract dispersed wildlife. Safari-goers can explore the waterways on a safari in August by boat and mokoro to gain a fresh perspective on this amazing patchwork of habitats.
Namibia Safari in August
As winter tightens its grip on Namibia’s parched lands, wildlife flocks to the pan’s permanent waterholes. Namibia is beautiful at this time of year. From late May to late September, hides at water points put safari-goers right in the heart of the action. Lions wait eagerly, but the herds have no choice — thirst comes first. The game viewing in Etosha National Park is at its peak, making the country’s finest safari destination an excellent addition to any itinerary in Africa. Trips to the desert and up the Skeleton Coast are extremely rewarding, with beautiful temperatures and clear skies in August.
Zambia
In Africa, the peak safari season, fantastic game viewing and cooler, drier weather make for ideal walking conditions. Zambia is still a “safari secret,” making it less congested and perfect for seasoned safari travellers. The Luangwa, one of the best places in Africa for walking, is at its best right now, offering great walking safaris and regular game drives. A fantastic park at this time of year, the Lower Zambezi is a firm favourite.
Another park to take into account for the August holidays is Kafue National Park. The Busanga Plains of Kafue can only be visited between June and October because they are inaccessible during the wet summer months. Highlights include game drives and hot-air balloon rides, with intense game sightings providing plenty to celebrate as you float down to earth for your post-flight Champagne breakfast.
South Africa in August
August is also a fantastic time to visit South Africa. The north of the country, in particular, guarantees excellent weather as well as safaris in Kruger National Park. Toward the end of the dry season, when animals congregate near perennial water sources and the undergrowth clears to improve visibility, game viewing in Kruger Park and other reserves is exceptional. The start of the whale-watching season in Hermanus and the Western Cape is usually in August.
