Safaris in March: Best African Safari Destinations to Visit
January 22, 2020
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March in Africa is what we call the “shoulder season”. It falls between the peak of summer and the start of autumn.
While the weather is quite unpredictable, certain destinations offer incredible experiences. Whether you want to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, catch a glimpse of the Big Five animals, or enjoy some birding tours, you’ll be able to do all that (and more) during a safari in Africa in March.
Unsure which are the best African safari destinations to visit in March? Here, you’ll find a list of the national parks which offer great animal viewing during this time of the year.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger National Park enjoys lovely weather in March: it’s not too hot, nor too cold, although the occasional afternoon thunderstorm is still possible. The Kruger is lush and green at this time of the year. There are myriad of colorful birds to see and, of course, you will have a chance to spot the Big Five animals.
March is a great month to indulge a little bit and opt for a luxury safari. Why not head to one of the private contingencies in the Kruger area and enjoy not only exceptional wildlife and luxury amenities but also activities that aren’t allowed in the national park (e.g: night drives and nature walks)?
»Unsure what to expect from a safari in Kruger? Read our detailed guide to visiting Kruger National Park!
And while you here, combine a visit to Kruger with a few days in Cape Town. The weather is great and the wine is equally amazing!
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
By March, the wildebeest herds have already eaten the fresh pastures in the Southern Serengeti and it’s time to move in search of new grazing lands.
Thousands of month-old calves and adults move across the dry land, west and north, in search of new grazing areas. This is when you can also spot predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, on the lookout for easy prey.
It’s still low season in the Serengeti, so you may be able to find affordable accommodation. This also means there’s crowd-free game viewing. Do make sure to ask the organizer when it’s best to travel to see the herds as their movement is dependent on the rains.
To get the best of Tanzania in March, why not combine a safari in Serengeti National Park with visiting Ngorongoro Crater? It’s a quieter month in the crater, too, but the chances to spot the Big Five are high!
»Overwhelmed by planning a safari in Tanzania? Read our Tanzania Safari Itinerary and pick the destinations that suit your travel style!
Chobe National Park, Botswana
By this time, the dry, warm, and sunny weather is returning to Botswana’s Chobe National Park, home to one of the largest numbers of elephants in Africa.
While there may still be the occasional thunderstorm in the afternoon, the end of the wet season offers excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
Head to the Savute Marsh where large numbers of zebras spend their time. Also, keep an eye out for baby animals and migrating birds.
»Planning to visit Chobe in March? Read our guide to visiting Chobe National Park!
Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda
Photo credit: Active African Vacations
March marks the start of downpours in Rwanda. The rainforest flourishes during this season, which ends in mid-May.
Despite the fact that hiking can become problematic, chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park is at its best. The food is a lot easier to find so the primates don’t venture too deep into the forest, making it easier to predict their behavior. They often stay in large groups, close to the forest floor.
Do remember that the wet weather is not ideal for your photography equipment so make sure your camera is waterproof (or at least you have a way to waterproof it). Also, your clothes and hiking gear should be waterproof and quick dry.
Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe
During March, Victoria Falls National Park is experiencing summer weather: hot and humid. But the rainfall makes Victoria Falls pump at maximum volume!
Bring your camera and start filming: expect a dramatic spectacle with a background of thunders, loads of mist and spray. Yes, a waterproof camera (or phone) is a must.
While low season is edging towards the end, you may still be able to find good deals for your safari in Victoria Falls National Park and Zambezi National Park.
Do you want to witness the heart-pumping Great Migration? Book one of the camping safaris in Serengeti National Park and let nature amaze you!