Safari in November: Where to Go in Africa

Kenya’s Maasai Mara is a smart choice. After the migration departs, the conservancies remain rich in resident lions, cheetahs and leopards, the grass greens with the short rains, and rates and vehicle numbers fall. Showers usually come in the afternoon or overnight rather than all day.

In Tanzania, the herds typically move south through the eastern and central Serengeti, heading for the southern plains. The central Serengeti’s resident big cats are excellent year-round, and the landscape turns green quickly once the rains arrive.

Yes, especially in South Africa’s private reserves. The first summer storms break the heat, the bush turns green almost overnight, and migrant birds arrive from Europe and elsewhere in Africa. Toward the end of November, impala begin dropping their lambs, which draws predators. The Sabi Sand and Kruger and malaria-free Madikwe all offer good value.

In Botswana, early November can still feel like the end of the dry season, with game concentrated and temperatures high, before the green season takes hold and many camps move to lower rates.

The seasonal switch closes some doors as others open.

The Seychelles are in their calm transition season, with light winds and good visibility for snorkeling, and Mauritius is warm and sunny ahead of its cyclone season. Zanzibar’s short rains usually arrive as brief showers, so it remains a good post-safari option. Our Mauritius vs Seychelles comparison helps you choose.

Four to eight months is often enough, except for Thanksgiving week, which deserves 9 to 12 months. Shoulder-season offers are common in Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana, so ask about stay-longer deals.