This is the middle of the peak season in many key destinations, but there are compelling motives behind more people choosing to go on an African safari in August. Dramatic changes of scene and life and death theatre being played out in front of you mean all of Africa’s a stage.
Masai Mara safari in August
During August each year the Great Wildebeest Migration has the small matter of the Mara River to consider, with river crossings being an unmatched spectacle. But even without the herds, the Mara’s resident wildlife is the equal of anywhere else, and less-traversed reserves in southern Tanzania are also well within reach. Continue exploring…
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Crossing the Mara River in a hot-air balloon is a thrilling experience. © Angama Mara -
The plains of the Masai Mara are covered in zebra, antelope and wildebeest during the Great Wildebeest Migration. © Alex Walker's Serian
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Crocodile pick wildebeest off as they cross the Mara River during the Great Wildebeest Migration. © Andrew Schoeman
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Game drives let you explore the area near Sala’s Camp. © The Safari Collection
Southern Tanzania safari in August
The Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park are as wild and remote as they are obscure – and that’s alright with us, two of our top-10 safari lodges for getting truly remote are in this part of Africa. The Rufiji river, one of Africa great waterways, offers the less common option of a safari cruise, and if safaris under the stars appeal, then fly-camping in Ruaha and Selous is as good as it gets. Continue exploring…
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The Rufiji River winds its way across the Selous Game Reserve, where Sand Rivers Selous is located. © Nomad Tanzania
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Sundowners on the lake are one of Siwandu’s specialties. © Selous Safari Company
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You’ll have tables to dine at when fly camping in southern Tanzania. © Nomad Tanzania
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Fly camping in southern Tanzania is a wonderful way to spend quality time with your partner. © Selous Safari Company
Okavango Delta safari in August
As the annual Okavango inundation spikes, water spills out of the channels and across the floodplains. Reduced areas of dry land concentrate game, and dispersed wildlife is drawn back by the easy availability of water. During a safari in August, explore waterways by boat and mekoro for a new perspective on this incredible patchwork quilt of habitats, or take to the air for a truly panoramic view. Best visited from July to October. Continue exploring…
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Sanctuary Chief's Camp is located in the former hunting grounds of Chief Moremi. © Sanctuary Retreats
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Relax as your guide navigates your mokoro through the Okavango Delta. © Sanctuary Retreats
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Watch from a hot-air balloon as the shadows lift in the early morning light in the Okavango. © Wilderness Safaris
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The herds of buffalo in the Okavango Delta are impressive to see. © Great Plains Conservation
Etosha safari in August
As winter tightens its grip on the parched lands of Namibia, Etosha National Park sees wildlife converge on the permanent waterholes that ring the pan. Lion lie in wait, but the herds have no choice: thirst comes first. From late May to late September, hides at water points put you and your cameras in the thick of it. Continue exploring…
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The Etosha waterholes attract plenty of wildlife.
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If you’re lucky you’ll see lion hunting when in Ongava Game Reserve. © Little Ongava
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Oryx (or gemsbok) are a common sight near Onguma The Fort. © Onguma
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Although they’re plodding along slowly here near Onguma The Fort, springbok can be lightning quick. © Onguma
Mana Pools safari in August
Falling water levels make the Zambezi River floodplains more accessible, and they’re soon filled with immense herds of game. From June to September, Mana Pools has concentrations of wildlife that can’t be bettered in Southern Africa. Canoe safaris are a local speciality – the classic Mana Pools experience is looking up at elephant on the bank. Continue exploring…
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A Zambezi safari takes you along one of Africa’s mightiest rivers. © Wilderness Safaris
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You’ll often be surrounded by wildlife during your Zambezi canoe safari. © Wilderness Safaris
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Elephant are attracted to lush Mana Pools. © Wilderness Safaris
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You’ll be in hippo territory on a Zambezi river safari. © Wilderness Safaris
Kafue safari in August
Inaccessible during the waterlogged summer months, Kafue’s Busanga Plains can only be visited between June and October. Game drives and hot-air balloon rides are highlights, with intense game sightings giving you much to celebrate as you float down to earth for your post-flight Champagne breakfast. Continue exploring…
