A Kruger National Park game ranger has shared a picture of at least six lions blocking the road inside the reserve. Image: Supplied
The dry winter season runs from May to August and is the best time to visit Kruger for game viewing and walking Kruger safaris
A Kruger National Park game ranger has shared a picture of at least six lions blocking the road inside the reserve. Image: Supplied
The majority of visitors to the Kruger National Park come for the wildlife, and it is widely accepted that the drier winter months (roughly May to October) are the best time for game viewing on a South African safari.
The summer months, although much hotter with the possibility of rain, also offer unique sightings.
The dry winter season runs from May to August and is the best time to visit Kruger for game viewing and walking Kruger safaris. The vegetation is low and sparse, making animals easier to spot and follow, and permanent water sources provide rewarding game viewing.
In June to August there are few mosquitoes, little to no rain, and temperatures are pleasantly warm during the day and refreshingly cool at night.
The end-of-winter months are frequently unbearably hot, but animal concentrations around water sources are at their peak.
Pros | Cons |
Wildlife gathers around water; vegetation thins out making viewing much easier | Morning game drives in open vehicles are cold |
Mild daytime temperatures and low humidity | Dirt roads become dusty |
Sunny skies and no rain | Warm clothing is required |
Virtually no risk of malaria |
Summer rains begin in November, peak in January and February, and end in April. The Kruger is transformed into a lush, green landscape that is ideal for photography.
From the end of November through early December, the park is filled with new-borns and spotting wildlife with their young is a memorable Kruger Park safari experience. This is also the best time to visit the Kruger National Park for bird watching.
Pros | Cons |
Lush green vegetation | Summer rains may ruin open vehicle drives |
Lots of baby animals around | Day temperatures are very high |
Predators are often seen hunting | Nights are sweaty hot |
Birdwatching is good |
Summer is the rainy season. The rains fill the rivers and waterholes, giving the bushveld a lush appearance. Summer game viewing can be more difficult due to dense vegetation. The summer migrant birds arrive, birding is at its peak.
During the day, the temperature can reach 30 degrees Celsius with either constant rain or afternoon thundershowers. Camping can be unpleasant. It is recommended that you travel in an air-conditioned vehicle and stay in air-conditioned lodging.
Pros | Cons |
The bushveld turns green and lush | Day temperatures are very high |
Birding is at its peak | Camping can be unpleasant |
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Although the park is busy all year, the quietest months are February and March at the start of the year, followed by October and November at the end. Because there are no school holidays during these times, it is quiet, with fewer cars on the roads and sightings.
The month of October is known for its hot, dry winds and colourless, sparse vegetation. Because the rivers and dams are low, high concentrations of game can still be seen, and overall birdwatching is good.
Pros | Cons |
Not many cars and people at sightings | Days are very hot |
Migratory birds arrive in the park | Dry winds prevail |
Signs of spring are evident |