When you think of an African safari, you might picture endless golden savannahs under a blazing sun, wildlife clustered around shrinking waterholes, and the dusty haze of dry season game drives. That’s certainly one way to experience Africa, but have you heard of the green season? Many call it the secret season – for good reason.
Explaining the term Green Season safari
Green season is the safari industry’s term for the warm, rainy months and in southern Africa, that’s typically November to March. When the first summer rains fall, the dry bush bursts into life. The dusty ground transform into lush, green grasslands; trees explode with fresh foliage and wildflowers paint the landscape with colour. The air smells different, the skies come alive and clear up (photographic safari dream conditions) with sometimes dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. The wilderness feels more wild, and totally renewed!
Traditionally, this has been considered the low season for travel. Why? Well for one, wildlife is less ‘abundant’ around water holes. So it can be more challenging to track and spot because of the vegetation thickening and of course the animals are no longer forced to gather at the last water sources. The summer heat can feel sticky thanks to the humidity. But ask any seasoned safari-goer or photographer and they’ll tell you: this is one of the most magical times to be in Africa.
Top reasons to choose a Green Season safari
- Fewer people: With fewer travellers, you’ll often have vehicles and guides almost to yourself. Camps are quieter and sightings are more exclusive. Less vehicle traffic means more quality time at wildlife sightings.
- Better rates: Camps and lodges drop pricing and offer excellent low-season specials like stay pay deals – imagine staying 5 nights on safari but paying only for 4 nights and at lower prices than high season! That means you can stay in some of Africa’s most luxurious camps for a fraction of the price!
- Photography heaven: The light is soft, the scenery lush, and the skies dramatic. If you love photography, this is an ideal season for you to consider!
- Baby boom: Many animals give birth after the rains, so you’ll see wobbly-legged antelope, playful predator cubs, and a burst of new life.
- Birding paradise: Migratory species arrive in their thousands, a treat for birdwatchers.
Yes indeed a green season safari is wildly immersive and a little more adventurous, perfect if you’re looking for a more affordable safari, seek something off the beaten path or you’ve been on safari before and want to experience Africa in a completely new way.
Get in touch if you want to learn more about Green Season – ask about the awesome specials, you can literally get low season rates AND stay/pay deals. That’s a luxury safari for less!