Deciding when to go on safari can feel overwhelming, especially with the misconception that the high season is the only worthwhile time to visit. With nearly 40 years in the industry, we know the ‘one-size-fits-all approach, does not work, especially as we operate in 3 unique destinations: Zambia, Malawi & Zimbabwe that provide different experiences at different times of year. So we’re here to help you decide on the best time for you, ensuring your safari adventure is perfectly tailored to what you want to experience.
Emerald Season: November to April
Often underestimated for its game viewing opportunities, the Emerald Season is a hidden gem. During this time, the rains breathe new life into the landscape, rejuvenating the flora and fauna and we have a number of specialist safaris in South Luangwa that make the most of this transformation. In addition, our Malawi camps are all open for the festive season, along with selected properties in South Luangwa, ensuring a memorable time of year. However, the true star of the show is our River Journeys. This is the only time of the year when you can fully explore the Luangwa Valley by boat, offering a completely different perspective of the park and an immersive way to experience its lush beauty, incredible birdlife and wildlife. It’s a more cost-effective time to travel, providing excellent value without compromising on the quality of your safari experience, ensuring you truly get more for your buck.
Shoulder Season: May to June
As the bush begins to dry and temperatures cool, May and June offer the perfect opportunity to explore. During this time, the landscapes remain vibrant, providing a serene and quieter atmosphere before the high season rush. You get to experience the tail end of the Emerald Season, with lush scenery and birdlife still abundant, while also enjoying some of the advantages of the upcoming Dry Season, such as easier wildlife viewing. By June, all our properties are open, offering a wide variety of experiences across Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. The cooler temperatures make for comfortable adventures, with fewer crowds and peaceful settings—a true win-win for any traveller.
Dry Season: July to October
July and August are ideal months for families looking to enjoy a safari getaway, as they coincide with summer holidays. It’s the perfect time to explore Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, with each destination offering unforgettable experiences for all ages. Our Malawi properties are particularly family-friendly, welcoming guests of all ages to enjoy a memorable safari experience together. As the temperatures begin to rise in August, wildlife movements become more predictable. September is also a fantastic time to witness the vibrant carmine bee-eaters in the Luangwa Valley, adding a burst of color to your safari. The dry season is also a fantastic time to take advantage of our renowned walking safaris, where you can get up close to nature and experience the thrill of the bush like never before.
So ultimately, there is no single ‘best time’ to travel but with so many incredible and varied safari options to choose from, no matter when you decide to visit, we’re confident that you’ll have the best time!
See you in the bush
The RPS Team