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Accommodation, Experiences, Safari

Your guide to a safari in April

Ker & Downey Africa > Journal > Your guide to a safari in April

Whether celebrating the Easter holidays with friends and family or seeking an intimate getaway, an African safari in April offers a thrilling and immersive experience with verdant green landscapes following the long rains and ample wildlife viewing opportunities. 

Most visitors will head to safari destinations in Southern Africa, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia as the region transitions from the rainy to the dry season, offering dry and sunny days ideal for exploration. April is also an ideal time to enjoy a beach and bush getaway by including a visit to a tropical idyll such as the Seychelles. 

If you want to enjoy a luxury safari in Africa in April, we can help. As a leading luxury travel specialist in Africa, we boast deep knowledge of the continent and the best safari destinations and luxury lodges. Our team goes out of their way to craft exceptional safaris that ensure a thrilling and immersive safari that leaves a positive lasting legacy in Africa. No matter the season or month you want to visit Africa, our team is standing by to help. 

“April is an incredible time to experience Africa’s diverse landscapes which are lush and green from the rains, and teeming with wildlife. Whether you’re tracking big cats in the Sabi Sands, gliding through the Okavango Delta by mokoro, or watching Victoria Falls in its most dramatic flow, this is a month that brings the best of both worlds: beauty and adventure,” says Sarah Morris, General Manager, Private Clients. 

Top April safari destinations 

Namibia

A luxury safari in Namibia during April offers a unique and unforgettable experience, as the weather is mild and the otherworldly landscapes are beginning to bloom after the rains. Explore the Sossusvlei dunes, where you can enjoy exclusive helicopter rides over the desert, followed by private game drives through the striking Namib Desert. In Etosha National Park, witness majestic wildlife like elephants, lions, and giraffes congregating around the waterholes. The cool mornings and evenings make for comfortable safari conditions and a memorable experience. 

Safari in April - Namibia Namib Desert

South Africa 

April is an excellent time of year to visit South Africa, with mild temperatures and lush landscapes following the summer rains. Explore Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands, where you can enjoy private game drives and spot the Big Five in their natural habitat. April’s cooler weather makes it perfect for early morning safaris, while the green season provides vibrant scenery and fewer crowds. Many travelers opt to add a few days in Cape Town, exploring this fascinating city, in addition to the Cape Winelands – a highlight for oenophiles – and the Garden Route. 

Safari in April - South Africa Sabi Sands Wetu

Seychelles 

A luxury safari experience in the Seychelles in April combines stunning natural beauty with warm, comfortable weather making it a wonderful destination for a beach and bush safari experience. April marks the end of the rainy season, bringing calm seas and ideal conditions for maximising quality time on and by the water. Explore the pristine beaches of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue or visit Aride Island for exclusive wildlife encounters. Enjoy our handpicked selection of luxury resorts offering private villas with stunning views of the Indian Ocean, world-class dining, and elevated service levels. 

Safari in April - Seychelles Six Senses Zil Pasyon

Zambia & Victoria Falls 

A luxury safari in Zambia in April offers an exceptional experience, with lush landscapes and abundant wildlife following the rains. Visit South Luangwa National Park for private game drives where you can spot elephants, lions, and leopards amidst a landscape that boasts a vibrant palette of green hues. April is also a great time for birdwatching with rare migratory species. A highlight of any visit to Zambia is a visit to Victoria Falls, where you can witness the thundering falls in full flow creating a dramatic spectacle that is a must-see. 

Safari in April - Zambia Victoria Falls Wetu

Botswana 

In April, Botswana boasts lush landscapes and abundant wildlife. The Okavango Delta is at its peak, with flooded waterways teeming with hippos, elephants, and a variety of bird species. Enjoy private rides on traditional mokoro canoes through the delta or game drives in Moremi Game Reserve, while a visit to Chobe National Park provides unique opportunities to witness large herds of elephants. Botswana’s mild weather in April makes for comfortable outdoor adventures and ideal conditions for spotting wildlife. 

Safari in April - Botswana Okavango Delta National Park

Our top April luxury safari packages 

Seeking April safari inspiration? Explore some of our safari packages in Africa below and discover some of the experiences and destinations you can explore.

As a premier luxury travel company in Africa, we excel in creating bespoke safari experiences with your preferred experiences and choice of luxury accommodations. Contact our luxury safari consultants if you wish to visit Africa in April. 

Benefits of a luxury safari in April - Botswana Tubu Tree Camp

What are the benefits of a luxury safari in April? 

There are many benefits to enjoying a luxury safari in Africa in April. Some of these include:

  • Ideal weather conditions: In many parts of Africa, April marks the transition from the wet season and heavy rains to the dry season, particularly in countries like South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania, and Kenya. During April the landscapes are lush and green following the rainy season and temperatures are slightly cooler, making game drives and bush walks more comfortable. Finally, the clear skies and beautiful green landscapes make for excellent photography conditions. 
  • Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities: April offers great wildlife viewing as animals take advantage of the waterholes and lush vegetation. Migratory birds are also still present, making April an excellent month for birdwatching. In East Africa, vast herds of wildebeest begin moving through the Serengeti, setting the stage for the Great Migration in May and June.
  • Fewer crowds: April is the shoulder season for tourism in Africa’s top safari destinations, meaning fewer tourists and a more exclusive experience. Many travelers can also take advantage of low season rates and exclusive offers. 
  • Ideal Easter holiday with family: With Easter typically falling in the month of April, a luxury African safari is the ideal vacation for families wishing to spend quality time together experiencing some of the greatest landscapes and wildlife on earth. We have access to an exquisite selection of family friendly camps and luxury family safaris in Africa that ensure a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you wish to enjoy a luxury safari in April, we can help. We specialize in creating bespoke safaris in Africa that include your desired experiences and choice of luxury accommodation. Contact us today to learn more about our tailored travel safari experiences in Africa. 

7 day sample African safari itinerary in April – South Africa and Victoria Falls 

Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town, South Africa

Highlights: Table Mountain, Cape Town City Tour

  • Morning: Arrive at Cape Town International Airport. Meet your private guide and transfer to your luxury hotel in the city.
  • Afternoon: Take a private guided tour of Cape Town, including visits to Table Mountain (weather permitting) and the V&A Waterfront.
  • Evening: Enjoy a gourmet dinner at a fine dining restaurant overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 2: Cape Winelands Private Tour

Highlights: Wine Tasting, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek

  • Morning: Depart on a private, full-day tour of the Cape Winelands, visiting Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Enjoy tastings at award-winning wineries like Delaire Graff Estate and Boschendal.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in a farm-to-table wine-paired lunch at a scenic wine estate.
  • Evening: Return to Cape Town for a relaxing evening at your hotel.

Day 3: Fly to Kruger National Park (Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve)

Highlights: Big Five Game Viewing, Luxury Safari Lodge

  • Morning: Fly via private plane from Cape Town to Skukuza Airport in Kruger National Park.
  • Afternoon: Arrive at your luxury safari lodge in the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, renowned for its Big Five sightings. Enjoy a welcome lunch overlooking the bush.
  • Late Afternoon: Embark on your first game drive with expert rangers.
  • Evening: Return to the lodge for a boma-style dinner under the stars.

Day 4: Full-Day Safari in Sabi Sands

Highlights: Big Five, Walking Safari, Bush Dining

  • Morning: Early morning game drive with a chance to spot lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos.
  • Midday: Enjoy leisure time at the lodge, with options for spa treatments or relaxing by the pool.
  • Afternoon: Take a guided walking safari to experience the bush up close.
  • Evening: End your day with a bush dinner and storytelling around a campfire.

Day 5: Fly to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

Highlights: Victoria Falls Tour, Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River

  • Morning: Take a private flight to Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe.
  • Afternoon: Arrive at your luxury lodge near the falls. After check-in, enjoy a private guided tour of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
  • Evening: Relax on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, with cocktails and canapés as you watch wildlife along the riverbanks.

Day 6: Adventure and Cultural Experiences in Victoria Falls

Highlights: Helicopter Ride, Local Village Visit, Optional Activities

  • Morning: Take a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls for a bird’s-eye view of this majestic waterfall.
  • Midday: Visit a local village to learn about Zimbabwean culture and traditions.
  • Afternoon: Optional adventure activities like bungee jumping, white-water rafting, or a walking safari along the gorge.
  • Evening: Enjoy a gourmet dinner under the stars at your luxury lodge.

Day 7: Departure from Victoria Falls

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your lodge.
  • Midday: Private transfer to Victoria Falls Airport for your international flight home or onward travel.

Luxury April Safari Vacation - Botswana Makgadikgadi Wetu

Plan your luxury April safari vacation with Ker & Downey® Africa

We are a luxury travel company that has been pioneering sustainable travel experiences in Africa for decades. We have in-depth knowledge of the continent and have handpicked the most exclusive luxury lodges in Africa’s best safari destinations to ensure a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience. All our safari experiences and accommodations have conservation and sustainability front and center, ensuring a positive lasting legacy in Africa. If you wish to enjoy a luxury safari experience in Africa in April, we can help. Contact our safari specialist today and let us craft a bespoke safari experience. 

Safari in April - Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Wetu

April safari holiday: FAQs

Is April a good time to go on an African safari?

Yes, April is a great time for an African safari. The landscapes are lush after the rains, wildlife is active, and parks are less crowded. It’s ideal for game viewing in South Africa, Botswana, and Tanzania, with excellent birdwatching and predator sightings. Following the rains, Victoria Falls is also at its fullest, with some 500 million litres of water crashing over every minute creating a true spectacle of nature. 

Where is the Wildebeest Migration in April?

In April, the Great Wildebeest Migration is in the central and western Serengeti in Tanzania. The herds begin moving north from the Ndutu and Kusini plains toward the Seronera region. This period offers excellent opportunities to see large herds, predators in action, and lush green landscapes after the rains. Contact us to learn more about a Great Wildebeest Migration safari

What are the top destinations to visit in April in Southern Africa?

Some of the top destinations to visit in April in Southern Africa include South Africa, including Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, and Kruger National Park, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe/Zambia, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, Namibia, including Etosha National Park, and the Seychelles. We boast in-depth knowledge of the best safari destinations in Africa no matter which month you want to visit. Contact us today and let us curate a bespoke African safari itinerary just for you. 

What are the top destinations to visit in April in East Africa?

Some of the top destinations to visit in April in East Africa include the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, and the Masai Mara in Kenya. It should be noted that East Africa is still in its rainy season during the month of April, so we generally recommend destinations in Southern Africa. 

What’s the weather like in Africa in April?

The weather in Africa in April varies by region, but the month generally marks a transition period from the wet season to the dry season.

Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe)

  • Mild temperatures (20-30°C / 68-86°F)
  • End of the rainy season, especially in areas like Kruger National Park.
  • Lush landscapes and fewer crowds make it ideal for safaris.

East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda)

  • April is part of the long rainy season, especially in Kenya and Tanzania.
  • Temperatures range from 15-28°C (59-82°F).
  • Best for wildlife viewing in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
What should I pack for my luxury African safari in April?

You should pack neutral colored clothing in natural fabrics that can be easily layered enabling you to comfortably transition from cool mornings to hotter midday temperatures. You should also bring a light rain jacket in the event of a rain shower, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, camera gear, binoculars, chargers, and insect repellent. When you book a luxury safari experience with us, our travel consultants will be delighted to provide you with a detailed list of what you need to pack depending on your safari itinerary.

What wildlife can I see in Africa during April?

The wildlife you see will depend on the parks and reserves you are visiting. Generally speaking, you can expect to see the following wildlife in April:

  • Lions
  • Leopards
  • Elephants
  • Rhinos
  • Buffalo
  • Zebras
  • Wildebeest (Serengeti safari)
  • Crocodiles
  • Giraffes
  • Hippos
  • Warthogs
  • Flamingos (in East Africa)
  • Bird species (migratory and endemic)
  • Baboons and monkeys
  • Cheetahs and hyenas

If you want to go on safari in April, we will be delighted to help. Contact us today. 

Why choose us for a luxury safari in April?

As a premier safari operator based in Cape Town we have been pioneering luxury safari experiences for decades. We are trusted by the world’s most discerning travellers to craft bespoke safari experiences that offer a truly immersive and authentic safari in some of Africa’s most breathtaking destinations. All our luxury lodges are handpicked by us and offer an exclusive experience coupled with luxury amenities and first-class service. Finally, we are committed to ensuring every safari we organize leaves a positive lasting legacy in Africa by working closely with safari providers that are dedicated to conservation and sustainability. If you wish to book a safari in April, contact us today.

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Safari in April

Safari in April

Safari in April

Safari in April

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Safari in April

Safari in April

Safari in April

Safari in April