February

Tanzania: February in the Serengeti and Ndutu

Tanzania is one of the top safari destinations in Africa in February, thanks to one of nature’s most extraordinary events.

The Great Wildebeest Calving Season

From late January through February, the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains host:

• Over 500,000 wildebeest calves born within weeks

• Thousands of zebras and gazelles

• Intense predator action

This period offers unparalleled opportunities to witness:

• Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunting

• Tender moments between mothers and newborns

• Vast herds against lush green plains

Weather and Conditions

• Warm days and mild evenings

• Occasional rain, usually short-lived

• Excellent road conditions in most areas

Why February Is Perfect in Tanzania

• Best time for calving and predator action

• Fewer crowds compared to peak migration months

• Outstanding photography opportunities

Kenya: Green-Season Safaris in February

Kenya in February is lush, scenic, and surprisingly rewarding.

Top Safari Areas

• Maasai Mara National Reserve – Resident wildlife and big cats

• Amboseli National Park – Elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro views

• Laikipia Plateau – Exclusive conservancies and community-led safaris

Wildlife Highlights

• Excellent big cat sightings

• Newborn antelope and plains game

• Active predators due to abundant prey

Why Visit Kenya in February

• Fewer vehicles at sightings

• Attractive green-season rates

• Cultural experiences with Maasai communities

February is ideal for travelers seeking high-quality safaris without peak-season crowds.

Botswana: Summer Safaris and Birding Excellence

Botswana in February offers a different but equally captivating safari experience.

Key Destinations

• Okavango Delta – Lush floodplains and diverse wildlife

• Chobe National Park – Elephant herds and river ecosystems

• Makgadikgadi Pans – Zebra migrations and open landscapes

Wildlife and Nature

• Abundant birdlife, including migratory species

• Predator activity remains strong

• Young animals across the ecosystem

February Safari Conditions

• Warm temperatures

• Afternoon thunderstorms

• Fewer visitors in remote camps

Botswana’s high-end lodges remain operational, offering exceptional service and privacy.

South Africa: One of the Best February Safari Destinations

South Africa is one of the most reliable safari destinations in Africa in February.

Top Safari Regions

• Kruger National Park and Private Reserves

• Madikwe Game Reserve (malaria-free)

• Addo Elephant National Park

Why February Works Well

• Warm weather and green scenery

• Excellent Big Five sightings

• Ideal for family and first-time safaris

Added Benefits

• Combine safari with Cape Town, beaches, and wine regions

• Excellent road infrastructure

• World-class lodges and guides

February is summer in South Africa, making it perfect for combining wildlife, city, and coastal experiences.

Uganda: Primate Safaris in February

February is an excellent month for primate safaris in Uganda.

Top Experiences

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest

• Wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Why February Is Ideal

• Drier conditions than peak rainy months

• Easier trekking trails

• Fewer tourists than peak season

Primate encounters are deeply personal and meaningful, making Uganda a standout February destination.

Rwanda: Gorilla Safaris and Scenic Landscapes

Rwanda in February offers excellent conditions for gorilla trekking.

Key Destination

• Volcanoes National Park

Highlights

• Comfortable trekking conditions

• Clearer views and photography opportunities

• High success rate of gorilla sightings

Rwanda’s efficient tourism infrastructure and luxury lodges make February an excellent choice for high-end travelers.

Namibia: February for Dramatic Landscapes

Namibia is often overlooked in February, but it offers striking beauty during this time.

Top Areas

• Etosha National Park

• Namib Desert and Sossusvlei

• Damaraland

What Makes February Special

• Green desert landscapes

• Fewer tourists

• Dramatic skies and light for photography

Wildlife is more dispersed than in the dry season, but scenic value is exceptional.

Zambia: Emerald Season Safaris

February falls within Zambia’s Emerald Season, a time of renewal and beauty.

Key Safari Areas

• South Luangwa National Park (select areas)

• Lower Zambezi National Park

Why Visit Zambia in February

• Lush landscapes

• Excellent birding

• Reduced safari costs

While some camps close due to rain, those that remain open offer exceptional experiences.

Zimbabwe: Quiet Wilderness in February

Zimbabwe in February is green, peaceful, and rewarding for seasoned safari travelers.

Top Destinations

• Hwange National Park

• Mana Pools National Park (limited access)

Highlights

• Fewer tourists

• Active wildlife

• Excellent photographic opportunities

Zimbabwe’s guiding standards remain high year-round.

Wildlife Experiences Unique to February

Calving Season

Many herbivores give birth during February, leading to:

• Abundant young animals

• Increased predator sightings

• Emotional and dramatic safari moments

Birdwatching

February is one of the best months for birding:

• Migratory birds present

• Breeding plumage and activity

Predator Behavior

Predators are highly active due to:

• Abundance of vulnerable prey

• Cooler temperatures compared to peak summer

Photography in Africa in February

February offers incredible photography opportunities:

• Lush green backdrops

• Dramatic clouds and light

• Baby animals and action scenes

Photographers often prefer February over dusty dry-season months.

February Safaris: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fewer crowds

• Better rates

• Unique wildlife behavior

• Scenic beauty

Cons

• Occasional rain

• Some remote camps may close

• Wildlife more dispersed in certain regions

With proper planning, the advantages far outweigh the drawbacks.

Who Should Travel to Africa in February

February is ideal for:

• Wildlife photographers

• Repeat safari travelers

• Budget-conscious luxury travelers

• Birdwatchers

• Couples and honeymooners

It may be less suitable for travelers who prefer guaranteed dry weather and peak-season conditions.

Planning Tips for February Safaris

1. Choose the Right Destination – Focus on areas with strong February highlights

2. Work with Safari Experts – Tailor itineraries around seasonal wildlife patterns

3. Pack Appropriately – Light rain jackets and breathable clothing

4. Be Flexible – Embrace the unpredictability of nature

Combining February Safaris with Other Experiences

February is perfect for combining:

• Safari and beach holidays (Zanzibar, Mozambique, Mauritius)

• Safari and city breaks (Cape Town, Nairobi)

• Safari and cultural experiences

These combinations enhance value and diversity.

Why February Is a Hidden Gem for African Safaris

February rewards travelers with:

• Authentic, uncrowded experiences

• Vibrant ecosystems

• Intimate wildlife encounters

• Exceptional value

It is a month that reveals Africa at its most alive and dynamic.

Africa in February offers some of the continent’s most immersive and rewarding safari experiences. From the wildebeest calving season in Tanzania and lush green safaris in Kenya to primate trekking in Uganda and reliable Big Five viewing in South Africa, February is a month of abundance, beauty, and drama.

For travelers willing to look beyond traditional peak seasons, February delivers unforgettable wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and exceptional value—making it one of the best times to explore Africa’s top safari destinations.