Your Guide to a Safari in February
Written by
Ker & Downey® Africa
February is an excellent time for an African safari, particularly in East Africa and Southern Africa. The weather is warm and dry, offering great wildlife visibility and a comfortable experience. For couples, there are numerous romantic safari getaways and experiences to be enjoyed in February to celebrate Valentine’s Day, from stargazing experiences to romantic bush dinners.
In Kenya and Tanzania, it’s the Great Migration calving season in the vast Serengeti and Masai Mara, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas and some thrilling predator-prey interactions.
In Southern Africa, destinations like South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Botswana’s Chobe National Park experience lush landscapes and abundant wildlife, though there may be brief afternoon rains. Birdwatching is exceptional, with many migratory species present. February is also a prime time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda, with drier trails making hikes more manageable.
We are a leading travel company that curates bespoke safari experiences in Africa. From our base in Cape Town, South Africa, we boast in-depth knowledge of Africa’s best safari experiences and luxury accommodation. If you want to book a safari in February to Africa, contact our team today.
February safari destinations
Kenya
February is an ideal time for a safari in Kenya thanks to the country’s dry and warm weather and minimal rainfall, which makes it easier to spot wildlife as animals gather around watering holes. It’s also calving season in the Masai Mara, with thousands of wildebeest and zebra giving birth, attracting predators like lions and cheetahs for incredible wildlife encounters. Birdwatching is also excellent, with migratory birds in abundance. Kenya is the ideal destination to enjoy a bush and beach safari by including a trip to the Seychelles in February. Enjoy endless sun-drenched days, crystal-clear waters, and white sandy beaches fringed by palm trees.
Tanzania
February is one of the best months to visit Tanzania, especially for witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration calving season in the Tanzania Serengeti National Park. Thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles give birth in February, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see adorable newborn animals and thrilling predator prey interactions. The vast plains, savannas, and woodlands of the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are also lush and teeming with wildlife, offering incredible game-viewing opportunities, including the Big 5. Of course, you can also visit the Kilimanjaro National Park. Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa and is encircled by stunning mountain forests teeming with life. February’s warm weather and clear skies also make Tanzania a superb destination for those interested in enjoying a photographic safari.
Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is at its very best, with drier weather making the hikes through Volcanoes National Park more manageable. Visitors can enjoy intimate encounters with the majestic mountain gorillas, one of the world’s most sought-after wildlife experiences. The lush forests are home to other wildlife, including golden monkeys and rare bird species. Our handpicked selection of luxury lodges in Rwanda provide exclusive experiences, including private treks and forest dinners, making a Rwandan safari both thrilling and memorable.
Uganda
Botswana
February is a wonderful time to explore Botswana’s lush landscapes, especially the Okavango Delta, which is in its green season. Wildlife viewing is impressive, with elephants, lions, leopards, and wild dogs thriving in the fertile environment. Birdwatching is also exceptional, with migratory species in abundance. The Kalahari Desert also comes to life, attracting large herds of zebra and springbok, along with predators.
South Africa
February is a great time to visit South Africa’s iconic reserves, such as Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands, with lush landscapes and abundant wildlife. The Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo – are easily spotted, along with giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs. Birdwatching is at its peak, with many migratory species present. Many safari goers opt to combine a traditional safari experience in South Africa with a few days in Cape Town. A highlight in February is a whale watching experience, when large super-groups of humpback whales can be seen on the west coast. For thrill seekers, shark cage diving is a must, while oenophiles will delight in a visit to the Cape Winelands. Don’t forget to take a trip up to Table Mountain for breathtaking views, as well as explore the Garden Route.
Our top February safari packages
What are the benefits of a luxury safari in February?
There are many benefits of choosing a luxury safari experience in February, including;
- Witness the wildebeest calving season in Kenya and Tanzania, with thousands of newborn wildebeest and baby animals giving rise to incredible predator prey interactions as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunt during the calving season.
- Lush vegetation and vast green landscapes across East and Southern Africa, create stunning scenery and great photographic opportunities.
- Excellent birdwatching with migratory species at their peak.
- Comfortable weather in many regions across southern and Eastern Africa, with warm temperatures and occasional rains that enhance the landscape.
- Perfect for romantic getaways, with luxury lodges offering bespoke Valentine’s Day experiences, including gourmet dinners under the stars and private sunset game drives.
- Gorilla trekking opportunities in Uganda and Rwanda are at their peak, with drier conditions offering better hiking experiences.
- Ideal for first-time safari-goers, as wildlife is abundant and easily spotted.
7 day sample African safari itinerary in February
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi, Kenya
- Arrive in Nairobi and transfer to a luxury lodge or hotel.
- Afternoon: Explore Nairobi National Park for a half-day game drive with views of the city skyline in the background.
- Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner at your luxury lodge with traditional Kenyan dishes made with the finest local produce.
Day 2: Travel to Masai Mara
- Early morning flight to the Masai Mara National Reserve.
- Check-in to a luxury tented camp in the Mara.
- Afternoon: Game drive to witness the Great Migration calving season and thrilling predator action.
- Evening: Sundowner drinks while watching the sunset over the Mara.
Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara
- Full day of game drives to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, witnessing the Big Five and incredible birdlife.
- Visit a local Maasai village to learn about the indigenous culture.
- Evening: Private bush dinner under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 4: Travel to Serengeti, Tanzania
- Early morning flight to the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.
- Transfer to your luxury safari lodge.
- Afternoon: Game drive in the Serengeti to witness the calving season and the presence of predators like lions and cheetahs.
- Evening: Relax at the lodge with a gourmet dinner under the stars.
Day 5: Full Day in Serengeti
- Spend a full day exploring the Serengeti’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty, including the Seronera River area, famous for predator sightings.
- Enjoy a hot air balloon safari at sunrise for a unique aerial view of wildlife in its natural habitat.
- Evening: Return to your luxury lodge for a traditional African dinner and stargazing.
Day 6: Travel to Ngorongoro Crater
- Early morning transfer to Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive in the caldera, home to incredible wildlife such as rhinos, elephants, and lions.
- Visit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with stunning views of the crater from the rim.
- Afternoon: Transfer to a nearby luxury lodge overlooking the crater.
- Evening: Relax with a spa treatment or enjoy a sundowner overlooking the landscape.
Day 7: Return to Arusha and Departure
- After breakfast, travel to Arusha for a private flight back home.
- Optional: Visit a local cultural center or shop for souvenirs.
- Afternoon: Departure or extension of your stay.
Plan your luxury February safari holiday with Ker & Downey® Africa
If you want to plan a luxury safari in February to Africa, we can help. We are a leading luxury travel company based in South Africa that has been helping discerning travelers create bespoke safaris in some of Africa’s best destinations. We have access to the finest luxury lodges, tented camps, and hotels, all of which have been personally vetted by our team. We also ensure every safari experience leaves a positive lasting legacy in Africa by working with reputable operators that are highly focused on conservation and sustainability. If you want to learn more about a luxury safari in February, contact us today.
February safari holiday: FAQs
/01
Is it calving season in February?
/02
Is February a good time to visit the Serengeti National Park?
/03
What should I pack for a safari holiday in February?
/04
What wildlife will I see while on safari in February?
/05
What is Victoria Falls like in February?
/06
What’s the weather like in Africa in February?
/07
What are some of the best wildlife experiences in February?
/08
Why choose us for a safari in February?
Curated Packages
Signature journeys across Africa
Our expert team crafts journeys that transcend luxury. Each itinerary is shaped by the spirit of the land and the wisdom of its people — opening doors to experiences few can imagine, and even fewer will ever access.
