Safari in October
Written by
Ker & Downey® Africa
October is a fantastic time for a safari in Africa, offering prime wildlife viewing as the dry season draws to a close in many regions.
In East Africa, the Masai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti in Tanzania remain excellent safari destinations, with predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards taking advantage of the last herds of the Great Migration before they move south. In Uganda and Rwanda, gorilla trekking experiences are at their prime, as temperatures are comfortable and visitor numbers are lower.
In Southern Africa, Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Zambia’s South Luangwa, and Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park offer exceptional game viewing, particularly elephants, buffalo, and big cats. The iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa remains a top Big Five destination, while Namibia’s Etosha National Park sees large herds congregating around its iconic waterholes.
With fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and incredible wildlife encounters, October is an excellent month for a luxury safari, whether you seek thrilling predator action, iconic landscapes, or a combination of bush and beach.
If you’re dreaming of a safari in October, we’re here to create an unforgettable experience. With decades of expertise in luxury African safaris, we have deep insight into the continent’s most spectacular destinations, exclusive lodges, and extraordinary wildlife encounters. Every journey we design is tailored to your preferences, ensuring a seamless blend of adventure and comfort. We are committed to conservation and sustainability, crafting safaris that not only provide incredible memories but also contribute positively to Africa’s ecosystems. Let us curate a bespoke itinerary that perfectly suits your travel style. Get in touch today to begin planning your October safari.
“October is one of our favorite months for a safari in Africa. The wildlife viewing is exceptional, the landscapes are strikingly beautiful, and with fewer crowds, our guests enjoy a more exclusive and intimate safari experience.” – Jenieen van den Heever, COO, Ker & Downey® Africa
Top October safari destinations
Southern Africa
Zimbabwe
You can expect some of the best safari conditions in Zimbabwe during October. The dry season is at its peak, with animals gathering around rivers and waterholes, making sightings in Hwange National Park and Mana Pools exceptional. Huge elephant herds, lions, and other predators are commonly seen, and the sparse vegetation allows for clear game viewing. The iconic Victoria Falls is a must-visit while on a Zimbabwe safari. Though the water levels are lower at this time of year, the falls are still breathtaking.
Zambia
The dry season is at its peak in Zambia, ensuring near perfect safari conditions. South Luangwa National Park is especially famous for its walking safaris, offering close encounters with elephants, leopards, and lions. In Lower Zambezi National Park, boat safaris along the Zambezi River provide stunning views of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Kafue National Park also delivers excellent game viewing with fewer tourists. Temperatures may be high, but the reward is exceptional wildlife sightings and breathtaking sunsets.
Botswana
During October, Botswana can be experienced at its very best with superb wildlife viewings. The Okavango Delta provides excellent game viewing, with elephants, lions, and hippos thriving in the lush waterways. Chobe National Park is famous for its massive elephant herds gathering along the Chobe River, while Moremi Game Reserve and the Central Kalahari provide thrilling predator sightings.
Namibia
The weather is hot in Namibia during October, which is the peak dry season. Dwindling water sources make it easier to spot wildlife in Namibia’s iconic national parks, such as the spectacular Etosha National Park. The otherworldly Namib Desert boasts stunning landscapes at this time of year, with towering sand dunes at Sossusvlei, while Damaraland provides opportunities to spot rare desert-adapted elephants and black rhinos.
South Africa
Kruger National Park and the private Sabi Sands Game Reserve are spectacular during October, with big five sightings a common occurrence. October’s mild temperatures and fewer crowds enhance the experience, allowing for private game drives and thrilling bush walks in the heart of the wilderness. For a perfect finale, pair your safari with a luxury city escape in Cape Town or explore the nearby Garden Route or the Cape Winelands.
East Africa
Kenya
The dry season continues in October in Kenya, meaning comfortable safari conditions and ease of spotting wildlife as animals gather around remaining water sources. The vast herds of the Great Migration are grazing on the northern plains of Kenya’s iconic Masai Mara before they continue their journey, heading south towards the Serengeti in Tanzania.
Tanzania
October is the ideal time for a Tanzania safari, offering exceptional wildlife viewing in the country’s top national parks. The Serengeti is alive with resident game, and predators are highly active as they hunt the remaining herds of wildebeest before they move south. The Ngorongoro Crater provides excellent chances to see the Big Five, while the Tarangire National Park is teeming with elephants and other wildlife gathering around the Tarangire River, providing wonderful opportunities to witness some of Africa’s most majestic animals in their natural habitat.
Uganda
October marks the end of Uganda’s dry season and the start of the short rainy season. The rain is often light, however, and does not disrupt traditional safari experiences. Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park provide excellent sightings of elephants, lions, buffalo, and hippos gathering around water sources. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer incredible gorilla trekking, with the trails still dry and accessible following the dry season.
Our top October luxury safari packages
Seeking October safari inspiration? Explore some of our carefully curated 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 October.
What are the benefits of a luxury safari in October?
A luxury safari to Africa in October offers an exclusive and unforgettable experience, with optimal wildlife viewing and fewer crowds, falling just outside of the peak safari season. Some of the benefits include:
- It’s the tail end of the dry season across much of Southern and Eastern Africa, drawing thirsty animals to the last remaining watering holes, making it far easier to spot Africa’s majestic wildlife. The large congregation of animals also leads to some incredible predator prey interactions.
- The weather is comfortable across much of Africa in October with clear skies, warm sunny days and cooler mornings and evenings. While some regions may experience light short rains, it’s unlikely to disrupt your safari holiday.
- The dramatic landscapes, clear blue skies, golden savannas, and stunning sunsets create perfect conditions for photography.
- October falls just outside the peak season, so you can expect a more private and exclusive experience thanks to lower visitor numbers.
- Finally, October is perfect for combining a traditional safari with a luxury beach getaway – known as a bush and beach safari – with great weather in destinations like Seychelles, Mauritius, and Zanzibar.
7 day sample African Safari itinerary in October - Bush & Beach
This itinerary combines an exclusive Big Five safari with a luxury beach retreat, offering the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival in Kenya – Nairobi
- Arrive in Nairobi, Kenya, and transfer to a luxury boutique hotel.
- Enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring the Giraffe Centre or the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
- Indulge in a gourmet dinner at a top restaurant.
Day 2-4: Masai Mara Safari
- Fly to the Masai Mara, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations.
- Stay at an exclusive luxury tented camp with a private plunge pool.
- Enjoy private game drives with expert guides, tracking lions, leopards, elephants, and more.
- Optional hot air balloon safari at sunrise, followed by a Champagne breakfast.
- Experience a sundowner cocktail overlooking the savannah.
Day 5: Flight to Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Fly from the Masai Mara to Zanzibar, a paradise island off Tanzania’s coast.
- Check into a luxury beachfront resort with a private villa.
- Relax with spa treatments and sunset cocktails.
Day 6: Relaxation & Exploration in Zanzibar
- Enjoy a private dhow cruise or go snorkeling/diving in crystal-clear waters.
- Explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for cultural experiences.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at a gourmet beachfront restaurant.
Day 7: Departure
- Spend the morning relaxing at the beach before flying home.
- Option to extend the trip with more days on safari or at the beach.
Plan your luxury October safari with Ker & Downey® Africa
For decades we have been at the forefront of crafting sustainable travel experiences across Africa. As experts in luxury safaris, our team possesses deep insight into the continent’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. We have carefully selected and personally inspected the finest lodges, tented camps, and hotels to guarantee exceptional service and unparalleled comfort. Every safari we design prioritizes conservation and sustainability, allowing our guests to make a meaningful impact and leave a lasting legacy while enjoying an unforgettable journey. If you’re dreaming of a luxury safari in October, let us create a bespoke adventure tailored just for you. Contact us today to start planning your luxury safari.
October safari holiday FAQs:
/01
Is it a good time of year to visit Africa in October?
/02
What are the best destinations and national parks for a safari in October?
- The Masai Mara, Kenya
- The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
- The Okavango Delta, Botswana
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
- Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
- Kruger National Park & Sabi Sands, South Africa
- Etosha National Park, Namibia
- Murchison Falls National Park Uganda
/03
Can I see the Great Migration in October?
/04
What are the best islands in the Indian Ocean to visit in October?
- The Seychelles
- The Maldives
- Zanzibar
- Madagascar
- Mauritius
/05
What wildlife can I expect to see in October?
- Big cats, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs
- Wild dogs
- Rhinos, including both black and white rhino
- Elephants
- Buffalo
- Wildebeest
- Zebra
- Giraffes
- Migratory birds and birds of prey including eagles, vultures, and kites
- Crocodiles
- Hippos
- Chimpanzees and gorillas (in Uganda and Rwanda)
/06
Why book a safari in October with us?
/07
What other months can I visit Africa on a luxury safari experience?
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.
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A Cultural Safari Tanzania Zanzibar
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