Where to go in Africa in November, December and January

Studying a map of Africa and trying to plan a trip can be a daunting task. The options of where to go in Africa seem to be endless, don’t they? But if you are travelling between November and January, there are certain areas of the continent that are definitely better to visit than others.

Here are our recommendations for where to go in Africa during November, December and January…

This article in our ‘Where to go in Africa’ series is courtesy of Cedarberg Africa, a travel and safari company specializing in African tailor-made itineraries. We have special rates with all the hotels and game lodges, so you don’t pay any more. 

Where to go in Africa in November

The busy-ness of the peak safari season (and often high prices) are over and the green season starts. The days are also getting longer and warmer in Southern Africa, so whether you are visiting the Indian Ocean Islands or South Africa, a beach holiday should be high up on your list!

South Africa

Northern Maputuland in Kwazulu-Natal is a must-visit if you are fascinated by the extraordinary behaviour of turtles. Visit in November and witness hundreds of Leatherback Turtles laying their eggs on the beach.

The Cape starts to enjoy really gorgeous sunny days. And if you are in the Hermanus area, you might even catch the last of the whales wallowing in the sea.

Although it is the start of the rainy season in the Greater Kruger, it is a fantastic time to see the migration of birds.

Namibia

This is one of the best times of the year to encounter the Desert Adapted Elephant in Namibia’s Damaraland. There are only a few hundred of these famous Ellies left, so it is most certainly worth a trip.

Ethiopia

If you are interested in culture and heritage, visit the northern parts of Ethiopia. This is a popular month to tour the remarkable religious and historical sites. (Try our 12 night Northern Ethiopia History & Scenery tour).

It is the end of the dry season in countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Malawi. You are likely to benefit from more affordable ‘green season’ rates if you visit in November.

Where to go in Africa in December

The lyrics from Grease, “summer-lovin’, having a blast” come to mind when ‘December’ and ‘southern Africa’ are bundled together. And for very good reason. If it’s the sun and sand you are longing for, plan your trip for this time of year.

Indian Ocean Islands

Pack your swimming costumes and beach towels and head to the Indian Ocean Islands. It’s a gorgeous time of the year to visit the Seychelles, Mauritius or Mozambique – take your pick!

South Africa

The shores of South Africa are guaranteed to be flooded with tourists and locals on school holiday. The weather is warm (often rather hot) and there is little chance of rain, so whatever you do, book early!

You might also like to have a look at our travel calendar for more ideas of when to travel where in Africa.

Where to go in January

Once again it is worth mentioning sunny South Africa. By mid month the locals will have returned to work and school respectively, but it will still be swarming with travellers… the weather is just too good to go anywhere else!

Kenya

A safari in this part of East Africa is perfect for January. With short grass in most areas, it is easy to see game and take walking safaris.

South Africa

Enjoy beautiful warm days in most parts of the country. It is also a great time to go on a safari in the Eastern Cape, Madikwe or Northern Kwazulu-Natal.

Whilst you are there, visit Coastal Maputuland. There might be afternoon thundershowers, but the sea is beautifully warm. As far as turtle-habits go, it is the crossover period between the nesting and hatching seasons of the leatherback and loggerhead turtles.

This ‘Where to go in Africa’ series is by Cedarberg Africa

Cedarberg Africa is a travel and safari company specializing in African tailor-made itineraries. We have special rates with all the hotels and game lodges. Booking through us will cost you no more than booking direct, and sometimes less. So our expertise and knowledge comes at no extra cost to you! Contact us now….