Accommodation, Experiences, Safari

Safari in July

Ker & Downey Africa > Journal > Top destinations for a safari in July

Africa is in all its glory in July, with both East Africa and Southern Africa offering superb conditions, sun-drenched days with very little chance of rain, and excellent wildlife viewing. This is the best time to enjoy traditional game drives and walking safaris, as animals gather around permanent watering holes. Safari goers will have the opportunity to see a superb selection of wildlife, including diverse bird species. In Uganda and Rwanda, July is also an excellent month for gorilla trekking, while in Tanzania and Kenya the Great Wildebeest Migration is in full swing.

If you want to enjoy a safari in July, we can help. As a leading luxury travel company based in Cape Town, South Africa, we excel at curating bespoke once-in-a-lifetime safari experiences. We have access to the best luxury lodges, tented camps, and boutique hotels, ensuring superb accommodations and the highest service levels. We also work to ensure a positive, lasting legacy in Africa by working only with select tour operators and accommodations that meet our high standards of conservation and sustainability. If you want to experience the delights of a safari in July, contact our Africa travel experts today.

“July is one of the best months for a safari in Africa, offering perfect weather conditions, incredible wildlife sightings, and the peak of the Great Migration,” says Sarah Morris of Ker & Downey® Africa. “It’s an unforgettable experience for those looking to immerse themselves in nature at its finest.”

Top July safari destinations

East Africa

Tanzania

A July safari in Tanzania offers an unparalleled experience as it coincides with The Great Migration in the Serengeti, one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles. This is the prime time to witness dramatic river crossings as vast herds of wildebeest and zebra face crocodile-infested waters as they make the Grumeti River crossing. The dry season ensures superb conditions for traditional safari experiences like bush walks and game drives with excellent wildlife viewing. This is the time of year to see Big Cats, elephants, and rare rhinos.

Safari in July - The Great Migration in the Serengeti

Kenya

July marks the start of the Great Migration’s arrival in Kenya’s Masai Mara as they move from Tanzania’s Serengeti. Witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras flooding the plains, with predators like lions and cheetahs in pursuit. The dry season offers clear skies and ideal conditions for game viewing, with big cat sightings particularly rewarding at this time of year. While in Kenya, enjoy authentic cultural interactions with the Maasai, including village visits, traditional dances, and learning about their nomadic lifestyle. The dry season means the Maasai are often moving their cattle, offering a genuine glimpse into their daily routines.

Safari in July - Kenya traditional dances

Uganda

A luxury safari in Uganda in July offers remarkable wildlife encounters. The month of July is prime time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, with trails easy to navigate having fully dried from the rainy season, while the mild weather enhances the chance of close encounters with mountain gorillas. Queen Elizabeth National Park offers Big Game viewing, including tree-climbing lions, while Murchison Falls boasts thrilling boat safaris. If you want to visit Uganda, contact our team.

Safari in July - Uganda gorilla trekking

Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is at its peak in July, with clear skies and firm trails making it more accessible and comfortable. Beyond gorillas, Nyungwe Forest offers chimpanzee trekking and thrilling canopy walks, while Akagera National Park provides Big Five game drives for those seeking a more traditional African safari experience.

Safari in July - Rwanda gorilla trekking

Southern Africa

Botswana

The Okavango Delta is in full flood in the month of July, creating a lush oasis where elephants, lions, and leopards gather around water channels. Mokoro (canoe) safaris glide through crystal-clear waters, offering intimate wildlife encounters. In Botswana’s Chobe National Park, large elephant herds and Cape buffalo gather along the banks of the Chobe River, making it easier to spot these mighty creatures. With wonderful weather conditions in July, Botswana’s national parks ensure an unspoiled safari playground.

Safari in July - Botswana Okavango Delta National Park

South Africa

South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park and private reserves like Sabi Sand are at their best in July, with Big Five sightings frequent as animals gather around permanent waterholes. Combine safari adventures with Cape Town’s vibrant culture, wine tasting in the Cape Winelands, and a scenic drive along the Garden Route for the ultimate vacation experience. For thrill-seekers, shark cage diving in Gansbaai is a must.

South Africa Kruger National Park

Zimbabwe

In Zimbabwe you can expect perfect conditions for game viewing in iconic parks like Hwange National Park and Zambezi National Park. Additionally, Victoria Falls is still quite full, offering breathtaking views, with helicopter rides providing an alternative perspective on one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Safari in July - Zimbabwe Hwange National Park

Zambia

South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park are at their peak, with incredible game viewing opportunities, including leopards, lions, and elephants. Weather conditions are ideal during July for enjoying a range of activities, including game drives, bush walks, and hot-air balloon rides. Water levels along the mighty Zambezi River makes it ideal for white-water rafting and fishing.

Safari in July - Zambia South Luangwa National Park

Our top July luxury safari packages

Seeking July 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 that match your preferred experiences and choice of luxury accommodations. Contact our luxury safari consultants if you wish to visit Africa in July.

What are the benefits of a luxury safari in July?

It’s peak safari season, so you can expect a superb roster of benefits while on a luxury safari in July. Some of the many benefits include:

Peak wildlife viewing – July is the dry season across Africa’s top safari destinations, meaning vegetation is sparse and the lack of rain forces animals to gather around permanent water sources, making wildlife easier to spot.
Ideal weather conditions – During July you’ll enjoy cool, dry days with minimum chance of rain, meaning a more comfortable safari experience, especially for enjoying outdoor pursuits.
The Great Migration – The largest overland migration is in full swing in Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara, as thousands of wildebeest and zebras move in columns of up to four kilometers long. During July you can expect to see the dramatic Grumeti River crossings, leading to some incredible predator prey interactions.
Superb photographic conditions – The golden light during the month of July ensures perfect conditions for wildlife and landscape photography.
Diverse choice of destinations – With safari season at its peak in July, you will benefit from a spectacular selection of safari destinations and experiences. Think sunset river cruises, Champagne breakfasts in the bush, and hot-air balloon rides over animal-rich plains.

If you want to discover the benefits of a safari in July, we can help. Contact our luxury safari travel consultants today and let us curate a bespoke safari just for you.

Safari in July

7-Day African Safari Itinerary July – Tanzania & the Great Migration

Day 1 – Arrival in Arusha, Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Private transfer to a luxury lodge in Arusha
Relax with a spa treatment and gourmet dinner

Day 2 – Fly to Serengeti National Park (Grumeti Region)

Private charter flight to the Western Serengeti (Grumeti)
Check into an exclusive tented camp handpicked by our team
Afternoon game drive to witness wildebeest herds gathering near the Grumeti River
Sundowner drinks overlooking the plains

Day 3 – Great Migration & Grumeti River Crossing

Full-day game drive following the vast herds on The Great Migration.
Witness dramatic wildebeest crossings at the Grumeti River, often with crocodile encounters
Picnic lunch in the bush
Gourmet bush dinner under the stars, expertly prepared by your lodge’s culinary team

Day 4 – Serengeti (Central Region)

Fly or drive to the Central Serengeti for Big Cats and predator action
Stay at a luxury lodge recommended by our team
Game drives focusing on lion prides, cheetahs, and leopards
Optional hot air balloon safari at sunrise, followed by a Champagne breakfast

Day 5 – Fly to Ngorongoro Crater

Scenic flight to Ngorongoro and check-in at your luxury accommodation
Afternoon crater rim walk with a local Maasai guide
Sunset drinks overlooking the crater floor

Day 6 – Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Early morning descent into the Ngorongoro Crater – known for its incredible wildlife density.
Big Five sightings, including rare black rhino
Breakfast picnic near a hippo pool
Return to your luxury lodge for a relaxing afternoon or spa treatment

Day 7 – Departure

Scenic drive back to Arusha
Optional visit to a local coffee plantation
Lunch before your international departure or extension to Zanzibar for a beach escape

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

As a premier luxury travel company in Africa we excel at curating bespoke safari itineraries in some of Africa’s most magical destinations. We have been pioneering unique adventures across the African continent that challenge, connect, and build legacies for decades. Our team is incredibly passionate about creating once-in-a-lifetime safaris that showcase the best of Africa and its majestic wildlife and vast wilderness. If you want to enjoy a safari in July, we can help. Contact us today and let us curate a memorable safari experience.

Start planning your trip

Safari in July: FAQs

Is July peak season in Africa?

Yes, July is considered the peak season for safaris in many parts of Africa, particularly in East Africa and Southern Africa. This can lead to a more crowded experience. However, working with us ensures you enjoy a highly exclusive experience tailored to your precise needs. Contact our luxury travel consultants to learn more.

What's the weather like in July?

You can expect generally mild and comfortable weather conditions, with sun-drenched days and blue skies during the day and cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings.

Is it white water rafting season in July?

July is a fantastic month to enjoy a white water rafting experience in Africa. The Zambezi, which flows along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, offers some of the most exciting rapids in the world, especially during Africa’s dry season. In July, the river’s water levels are lower, which exposes more of the river’s challenging rapids, making it an ideal time for thrill-seekers.

Is July a good month to visit Victoria Falls?

Yes, July is an excellent time to visit Victoria Falls. While they are at their peak during March and May, during July, the water flow is still outstanding, and the mist created by the falls will still be impressive. It’s also an excellent month to enjoy devil’s pool, a natural rock pool right at the edge of the falls, with slightly lower water levels, making it a safe experience.

How far in advance do I need to book a safari in July?

As July is the high season in Africa, we advise to book early for the best choice of luxury accommodations and to ensure ample time to plan a bespoke itinerary. However, we can often accommodate last-minute bookings. Contact our team to learn more.

Why choose us for a luxury safari experience in July?

From our base in Cape Town, South Africa, we have been pioneering luxury safari experiences for decades. We are trusted by the world’s most discerning safari enthusiasts to craft the perfect safari experience in some of Africa’s most breathtaking destinations. We have personally vetted all luxury lodges to ensure 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 only with safari providers that are dedicated to conservation and sustainability. If you wish to go on safari in July, contact us today.