The months of March and April in Eastern and Southern Africa present the perfect opportunity for travelers from the US to escape the winter blues. Shaun Stanley, the founder of luxury safari tour operator Stanley Safaris, shares his top three destinations where travelers can trade the cold in North America for vast wildlife and warm, safari adventures:
Tanzania
Before the long rains begin in April, Tanzania makes for a magical experience seeing chimpanzees and big game. Travelers can either head to Katavi National Park, one of the most remote parks in Africa, or the southern plains of the Serengeti to witness the Great Migration of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, as well as witness new life begin as thousands of wildebeest give birth. For a well-rounded safari, combining a visit to the Serengeti with a stay at the exclusive Chem Chem Lodge and then unwinding on the beaches of Zanzibar, Pemba, or Fanjove is the ultimate warm-weather escape.
Kenya
Kenya is another excellent choice as the dry season lasts throughout March, drawing wildlife to more permanent waterholes in anticipation of the April rains. A journey combining the conservancies surrounding the Maasai Mara with the private reserves in Laikipia offers amazing wildlife, strong conservation, authentic cultural encounters, and plenty of experiences to keep guests active in the sunny Kenyan weather. For a remote experience, safari goers can head to Koros Camp in the far north region, accessible only via private transport as there are no scheduled flights to the area. During a stay, travelers can fully engage with the rugged terrain through various warm-weather activities, including boating, helicopter rides, and quad biking.
South Africa
As the rain arrives in East Africa in April, Shaun recommends shifting to South Africa. This time is ideal to explore the renowned reserves bordering Kruger National Park, including Sabi Sands, Timbavati, and Mala Mala. Travelers can enhance their experience by combining these iconic reserves with the fan favorite Tswalu Private Reserve, followed by time in Cape Town to explore the city or enjoying the beaches on the coast of Mozambique, to round out their safari experience. To take full advantage of the great weather and landscape, guests can also opt for a walking safari in the remote northern section of Kruger National Park, tracking the Big Five on foot while engaging in the finer details of the bush.
