Ker & Downey Africa > Journal > Your guide to a safari in February
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 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.
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.
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’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest boasts dry trails in February, making gorilla trekking hikes easier and more comfortable. Beyond gorillas, Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park offers traditional safari game drives to see lions, elephants, and hippos. The weather is warm and ideal for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests to vast savannahs that span as far as the eye can see. For couples, a February safari is a romantic adventure, with luxury lodges offering private treks, sunset cruises, and Valentine’s Day experiences.
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.
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.
Seeking February safari inspiration? Browse some of our luxury safari packages below to learn about some of the experiences you can enjoy.
As a premier luxury travel company in Africa, our safari packages can be tailored to meet your desired preferences, from your choice of safari destination to your preferred experiences and luxury accommodation. Nothing is too much trouble for our team. Contact our safari specialists to book your February safari to Africa.
There are many benefits of choosing a luxury safari experience in February, including;
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.
Yes, February is typically the calving season in East Africa, particularly in the Serengeti (Tanzania) and Masai Mara (Kenya). During this time, thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles give birth to their young, creating an exciting spectacle of newborn wildlife. This calving season attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, offering incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and dramatic predator-prey interactions. It’s a prime time for safaris, as the lush green landscapes and abundance of prey make it a perfect opportunity for visitors to witness one of nature’s most remarkable events.
Yes, February is an excellent time to visit the Serengeti National Park. It coincides with the calving season of the Great Migration, when thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles give birth on the southern plains of the Serengeti. The weather is generally warm and dry during February, with lush landscapes and fewer tourists compared to peak seasons, making it a fantastic time for photography and immersive wildlife experiences.
Pack light, neutral-colored clothing for game drives, a waterproof jacket for possible rain, comfortable walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars. Bring layered clothing for cool mornings and warm afternoons. Don’t forget sunglasses, a camera, charging equipment, and any prescription medications. In some areas, you may need malaria tablets, although we do offer malaria-free safaris. When you book a February safari to Africa with us, we will provide advice on what you need to take with you.
You can expect to see a superb selection of wildlife, including big game. Highlights include:
February is a great time to visit Victoria Falls as the Zambezi River is in full flow, creating a breathtaking, thunderous cascade of water. The falls are particularly impressive during this time, with mist clouds rising high into the sky, earning its local name “The Smoke That Thunders.”
While some viewpoints may be misty, this period showcases the raw power and beauty of the falls. February also brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds, making it an excellent time for photography and exploring nearby attractions, like safari parks and river cruises on the Zambezi River. If you wish to add a trip to Victoria Falls to your February safari itinerary, just let us know and let us curate your perfect safari experience.
Overall, February offers great weather for wildlife viewing, with lush greenery and comfortable conditions, however, weather conditions vary across countries.
There are some thrilling wildlife experiences to be enjoyed in February, including the Great Wildebeest Migration and calving season, big five sightings, gorilla trekking, and birdwatching. No matter what bucket-list experience you would like to enjoy, we can help. If you want to go on safari in February, contact us today and let us curate a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
We have been pioneering luxury safaris in Africa for decades and boast unmatched expertise. Our team crafts bespoke safari experiences that ensure you leave a positive legacy in Africa, working with tour operators and luxury lodges that are committed to conservation and sustainable practices. If you want to go on safari in February, we can help. We are trusted by the world’s most discerning safari enthusiasts and go out of our way to craft once-in-a-lifetime holidays in Africa. Contact us today to book your February safari.
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