When To Travel| Kilisnow Safaris

ZANZIBAR

Pristine beaches, clear ocean waters, and historical destinations are the main highlights in Zanzibar. January is the best time to hit this part of Africa to make the most of that summer heat. Take a dip in Zanzibar’s sparkling tides, and witness the precious marine life under its salty seas. Safari Blue is the best pick if you want to experience a stunning African beach. You may also want to visit the Jozani Forest, where the famous red colobus monkey dwells. The region homes this rare primate, where you can also witness various birdlife. Visiting this destination wouldn’t be complete without learning its roots and history. Zanzibar is where Spice Island is located, which bears significant stories of the past. Wander the Stone Town, Tanzania where you can find the House of Wonders, National Museum of Zanzibar, and the Old Fort.

WILDEBEEST CALVING SEASON, NDUTU SERENGETI

Calving season peaks in February and the best place to catch this striking phenomenon is at the Serengeti National Park in Ndutu Area. It's easy to predict the migration during this month as migrating animals like zebras and wildebeest give birth to their offspring. Mobile camps are fully operating during February when the action in safaris is at its heights. It's typical to see animals giving birth, as well as predators catching their prey. Besides following the migration, you can also do lots of activities at the Serengeti National Park. You can go for drives, ride hot air balloons, examine up close the Olduvai Gorge, engage in guided walks and immerse in the Maasai way of life, and watch the abundant birdlife in the area. There are tons of mammals to look out for such as giraffes, elephants, hyenas, and antelopes. Visiting the Ndutu area wouldn't be complete without witnessing the wonders of the Serengeti National Park with your own eyes.

LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK

Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya is one of the great sceneries you can find within the Great Rift Valley. You will see a diverse ecosystem in the area, as well as the picturesque view of ridges. Many people head to Lake Nakuru National Park, one of the most traversed Kenya parks, to hike, watch birds, picnic, and join game adventures. The Greater and Lesser Flamingos dwell in this destination, as well as many types of terrestrial birds. There are about 450 bird species in the park, 56 species of mammals such as rhinos and waterbucks that roam free at Lake Nakuru National Park. You may also want to witness the Makalia waterfalls, and see in person the majestic Rothschild Giraffes which are one of the world’s rare animals.

SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

The dry season starts to settle in South Luangwa as April arrives. This destination is one of the greatest Zambia tourist attractions that bears one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries among the rest of Africa. You will see a significant concentration of animals near the Luangwa River, and the park's lagoons. South Luangwa National Park has an area of 9059 km2 Park, where about 60 species of animals and 400 different birds dwell. This month is the most suitable time to visit this destination as it has a desirable climate for games, walks, and other activities. The Luangwa Valley is a must-see if you’re fascinated about different trees, rare types of vegetations, and exotic flowers. You should witness baobabs real and up-close during this month, as well as trees like mopane, winter thorn, leadwood, ivory palm, and the marula when they fully flourish. A great variety of wildlife like hippos and crocodiles, elephants, Thornicraft's giraffes, buffalos, impalas and much more dwell at the South Luangwa National Park. You can witness all these magnificent sceneries when you visit this destination during April.

MALA MALA GAME RESERVE

It’s a dry season, dust is everywhere, and wildlife gathers in bodies of water at the Mala Mala Game Reserve. May is a great time to visit this destination due to desirable weather that’s not too hot and not too cold. Rainfall is infrequent, and the sun shines just right during this season. Mala Mala Game Reserve is the largest and oldest Big Five safari in South Africa. The area covers 130 km² where tons of animals live such as hyena, cheetah, wildebeest, hippopotamus pods, zebra, giraffe, as well as Cape wild dog. Mala Game Reserve is also known as the pioneer of luxury photographic safari where the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater and Sand River lie. The world-renowned leopard featured by the National Geographic, Tijolo, lived at the Mala Mala Game Reserve. Another reason why the park is a favorite is due to its closeness to the world-class Kruger National Park. With a dry climate in May, you can do many activities in the park such as walking safaris, games, and night safaris.

RUAHA NATIONAL PARK

June is the prime time to see the wildlife thrive at the Ruaha National Park. During this dry season, the animals stay near the bodies of water for an accessible source of water. Games and guided walks are a pleasurable experience due to the comfortable climate and predictable wildlife. Greater Kudu, elephants, hippopotamus and crocodiles are just a few of the species that are abundant in the area. Tourists fall in love in the park’s attractions like its rivers, the Jongomero, Mwagusi, and Mzombe. Bird watchers would also enjoy exploring the Ruaha National Park where about 571 kinds of birdlife dwell. The Birdlife International recognized the park as one of Africa’s most significant areas specifically the Usangu basin that is located within the reserve, making the park one of the best Tanzania wildlife safaris. Some of the wildlife that you can witness roaming free in this destination are lions, cheetah, leopards, giraffes, elands, zebras, impala, Jackals, bat-eared foxes and so much more. If you’re dreaming of an adventure in June, you should include the Ruaha National Park to your itinerary; it's surely one of the highly recommended Tanzania safari destinations

NGORONGORO CRATER

During the dry season in June has the coldest climate in the area of the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, Tanzania, which also means it's a perfect time for a trip. This destination is a protected World Heritage site and a must-visit place for many tourists. Besides the abundant wildlife that dwells in the area, there are as well many attractions in the vicinity. About 25,000 large animals live in the area such as African buffalo or Cape buffalo and hippopotamus. The blue wildebeest, Grant's zebra, the common eland and Grant's and Thomson's gazelles, waterbucks can be seen near Lerai Forest. These are just a few species; you can see almost any kind of animal in this destination such as lions, crocodiles, and wild dogs. Lerai Fever Tree Forest is a popular choice for exploration near the crater where tons of bird species live. The forest is filled with beautiful trees like acacias as well as vegetation where rare animals feed. Guided walks near the Olmoti Crater and Empakaai Crater is also an activity that can deliver a remarkable experience, where you can witness the panoramic craters and the stunning waterfall near the lakes. Visiting the Ngorongoro crater in the Ngorongoro National Park during this time of year is not only delightful to the eyes, but it also fills your heart and mind with remarkable adventures.

GRUMETI RESERVE, WESTERN CORRIDOR SERENGETI

Witnessing the wildebeest migration, viewing predators, and experiencing luxurious safaris; these are just a few reasons why you should head to Grumeti Reserve. Lying close to the borderline of Western Serengeti, this destination is the home of a wide range of wildlife. Although the great migration in Tanzania happens between June and July, the region offers extraordinary sights throughout the year. Zebras, elephants, and Thomson’s gazelles roam the vast plains of Grumeti Reserves, where luxurious camps and hotels are located. Leap to this destination that can stimulate your soul with zest from the thriving energy of Grumeti Reserve’s wildlife.

GREAT MIGRATION, KOGATENDE SERENGETI

Wildebeest migration peaks as July arrives in Kogatende Serengeti. Thick herds of this species, as well as other wildlife such as zebras, will be seen during the Serengeti National Park great migration. This month is the best time for drives, as there would be little to no precipitation, and wildlife can be easily spotted near bodies of water. At the Seronera River Valley, you can usually find groups of animals like elephants and gazelles, as well as predators like lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards. Stepping in the fields of Olduvai Gorge, where 2 million-year-old human fossils were found, is an experience you must not miss at the Serengeti National Park. Luxurious adventures are also available in this destination such as Air Safari, where you can go on a balloon safari in Serengeti and appreciate the beauty of the park from the top view. Visiting the Maasai village must also be in your adventure list, a place to learn the culture and traditions of the Maasai.

GREAT MIGRATION RIVER CROSSING, KOGATENDE SERENGETI

The Mara River in Kogatende Area, Serengeti, is packed full of action in August as massive herds cross for migration. You will experience prime wildlife viewing during a Great Migration safari as tons of different animals from small to large are abundant and full of life during this time of the year. River crossing is at its height in August and lasts until September. The mega herds move non-stop as they follow the rain, and head to greener pastures. You will witness predators running after the crowds as they prey on large animals. The height of action in Kogatende is at its peak during August. Thus, if you want a remarkable safari tour, this is the best time to head to the Mara River.

STONE TOWN, TANZANIA

August is one of the ideal months to visit Stone Town. With rare rainfall and clear skies, this month is one of the busiest times in this part of Tanzania as many tourists head to this destination. There are tons of things to see and do in Stone Town, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will fall in love with the area’s unique culture, and rich history, which have been preserved and can be seen mostly at the town’s architectures. Shop at bazaars, eat local cuisine and explore historic sites, which will all add to your remarkable Tanzanian experience. The Forodhani Gardens is a staple of a Stone Town tour, where you can see famous ruins of the Arab Fort, the Palace Museum and the House of Wonders. Near the area is a food market, where you can relax as you discover the cuisine of Swahili and Zanzibari. From Stone Town, you can have a quick beach trip to Prison Island as well as other great Zanzibar beaches. It’s only a 20-minute board ride from town, which is also the home of giant tortoises. The island’s fine sand and clear water are perfect for a swim.

LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK

The Lake Manyara National Park is alive in August, which means herds of animals gather near bodies of water. A dry season also implies you have a high chance of encountering wildlife everywhere you go, as animals roam free around the park and near the lakes. We suggest you plan your African safari adventure during this time of year as accommodation rates are cheaper in lodges like Lake Manyara Serena lodge and Lake Manyara Wildlife Camp due to a fewer number of tourists than earlier in the year. August also gives way to unique landscapes because trees like acacia and baobab fully flourish for this season. The fields are painted with hues of green due to the abundance of vegetation, which makes stunning photos for your getaway. In August, however, is a cold climate. Hence, make sure to bring warm clothes to keep you comfy especially during the night.

FINALE OF GREAT MIGRATION, SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

As the last month of the river crossing migration, September is when you would want to head to the Serengeti National Park if you plan to witness the final moments of the Great Migration. You shouldn’t miss this significant phenomenon happening on the plains of the park. Mega herds of animals dash, move and fight over predators for survival during the finale of the Serengeti migration. Millions of wildebeests, accompanied by a small portion of zebras, gazelles, elans, and impalas move in a predictable pattern in search for fresh grass and better quality of water. During the migration of herds, they will face predators along the way. The Mara River is no exception for the migrating animals. Crocodiles lurk the river after the passing packs where they stealthily catch their preys. The action is abundant during this time at the Serengeti National Park.

SELOUS GAME RESERVE

Head to Selous Game Reserve during September that bears suitable weather for games and other activities. With an area of 50,000 square kilometers, this destination is one of the biggest game parks in East Africa, In fact, it's second to the largest reserve in Africa. Tons of animals and attractions await you here including hundreds of species, lakes, and rivers. In 1982, UNESCO declared the park as a world heritage due to its stunning beauty. It’s the home to more than 350 birds species and reptiles. The Selous Game Reserve also hosts the most substantial concentration of elephants amounting to about 30,000 to 50,000. You will find a wide variety of animals at the park such as rhinos, hippopotamus, brindled gnu, sable antelope, Nyasaland gnu, eland, waterbuck, greater kudu, hartebeest, giraffe, zebras, reedbuck, spotted hyena, warthog, lion, hunting dog, and leopard. You will fall in love with the landscape of the Selous Game Reserve as well, where you can find attractions like the Great Ruaha and Rufiji rivers. Volcanic hot springs, lakes, and rivers are all over the area, which you explore, too.

MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

October is a suitable time to head to Masai Mara National Reserve. During this time, innumerable herds of wildebeests remain at the park before they go back to Tanzania. The great wildebeest migration moves, crossing the Mara River in search of greener pastures. You will have an action-packed adventure when you go to Masai Mara National Reserve during October. It's the same reason why the park is a staple in itineraries of many safari-goers. Wildlife viewing is optimal at the Masai Mara National Reserve during this month as there are plenty of predator and prey interactions. You can encounter tons of different animals during this month such as the Big Five, black rhino, big cats, bat-eared fox, black-backed jackal and spotted hyena, antelope such as impala, reedbuck, Thomson's gazelle, eland, and topi, while buffalo, elephant, and giraffe. You can also witness the Great Migration, a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon when you choose to include this destination on your African trip. It's a remarkable experience for all types of tourists whether you're going for a solo adventure, with a family or your other half. In fact, Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the top Kenya reserves; a prime attraction in the country all-year-round.

MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK

In southern-central Tanzania, Africa you will find a safari gem called Mikumi National Park. October is a great time to visit this destination due to the dry climate, which will make exploration a lot easier. Wildlife is abundant, and its beautiful landscape is frequently compared to the famous Serengeti Plain. Various animals dwell in the park such as zebras, wildebeests, buffalos, impalas, giraffes, elephants, lions and spotted hyenas, as well as groups of yellow baboon and vervet monkeys. The location of the Mikumi National Park is also a great choice as en route to places like Selous and Ruaha. Vegetations and trees start to thin down during October, which makes wildlife sighting easier. Baobabs, acacias, and Borassus palms are just a few kinds of plants that you will see in the area. Mikumi National Park is a beautiful, underrated safari, where you can enjoy the same perks of more popular reserves without dealing with a thick crowd.

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

Tarangire National Park looks good during October. This month bears a drier climate, which makes exploration, activities, and games a lot more comfortable and enjoyable than the rainy season. The park has blooming plants and vegetation this time of year, which makes stunning photos. With an area coverage of 2850 square kilometers, there's enough space for a dwelling of a high number of varied animals like elephants, elands, gazelles, impalas, zebras, kudus, rhinos, hartebeest buffalos, and the great wildebeest migration. If you're an avid birdwatcher, you'll love what you will see at the park such as more than 550 different bird species strewn across Tarangire. Visitors head to this park and never miss witnessing its most dominant feature, the Tarangire River, which is surrounded by baobab trees, acacias, and other vegetation.

MT. KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA

Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania is an excellent destination to experience in October. October is the best month for a Kilimanjaro trip due to agreeable weather, which gives you a high chance to reach the summit. June to November, as well as February, are also suitable months to climb the mountain as there are fewer chances for rain. Crowned as one of UNESCO World Heritage Site, tons of hikers include its summit on top of their lists. Wildlife is inexhaustible in the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. You will witness majestic animals like baboons, mongooses, bush pigs, elephants and more. At the edge of the mountain, you can also explore the wonderful Lake Chala. The lake’s crystal waters with turquoise and emerald green hues will take your breath away. Along with your hike, you will see different species of plants and vegetations, ferns and humongous trees. There are endless surprises climbing mount Kilimanjaro; it will stimulate your senses as you savor a spectacular view of Africa -- its skies, lands, among where abundant wildlife lives.

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Serengeti National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Africa. It belongs to the continent’s prime attraction, which also means, the number of tourists that visit the area can be overwhelming especially during the peak months. Serengeti National Park is a great place to see all-year-round. However, if you want to go against the current, and face a lesser number of crowds, November is the best time to plan your adventure. During this month, fewer people head to the park, but it bears equally-agreeable weather for games and exploring. It’s a low season during November at the Serengeti National Park, and there’s a small chance of precipitation. You will enjoy the park more if you visit at this time of year. Heading to this destination during this month increases your chance to encounter animals like big herds of buffalo, smaller groups of elephant and giraffe, and many other ungulates such as eland, topi, kongoni, impala and Grant's gazelle. All three big cats are easily seen at the Serengeti National Park all throughout the year. While lions are everywhere and are often found on a kill. Cheetahs are very common on the southeastern plains, while leopards can be seen resting on the big trees along the Seronera River.

WILDEBEEST MIGRATION, CENTRAL SERENGETI

Shortly after the rain begins in November, the mega herd of the great wildebeest migration arrives on the short-grass plains of the Central Serengeti in December. After an action-packed journey, while crossing the Masai Mara, millions of wildebeests go back to Southern and Central Serengeti. The migrating herds move quicker towards the south down to the Southern Plains which they typically reach in a matter of days. Witness millions of large animals including wildebeests and zebras flock and move from one place to another with their calves during the great wildebeest migration in the Central Serengeti during December. It will be an unbelievable experience to see before your eyes the overwhelming amount of animals, which are the strongest ones left after facing tons of predators along their migration journey.

When To Travel