If you’ve ever dreamed of a safari, you’ve probably asked the golden question: “When is the best time to go?” The answer? Well, at Thornybush, game viewing is spectacular all year round! But depending on what you want to see, each season brings its own magic. Let’s break it down so you can plan your perfect adventure!
If you love lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife, summer is your season! The rains bring an explosion of greenery, baby animals, and thousands of migratory birds. Expect to see:
🦩 A rainbow of birdlife—with migratory species adding a splash of colour
🐘 Elephants swimming and splashing in waterholes (it’s pure joy to watch!)
🐸 Frogs, lizards, snakes, and dung beetles—smaller creatures are out in full force!
However, summer also means hot and humid weather, with the chance of rain showers. But if you can handle the heat, the sightings are incredibly rewarding!
Autumn is a hidden gem for safari lovers and a personal favourite for many of our guests (and guides!). Here’s why:
☀️ The temperatures cool down, making game drives more comfortable
🌿 The bush is still lush and green, but with less rain
🦁 Predator activity ramps up as the weather cools
🐾 The Big 5 sightings remain strong, with clear views through the thinning vegetation
If you want the best of both worlds—great weather and fantastic wildlife, May is the perfect time to visit!
Winter in the bush brings dry conditions, crisp mornings, and golden sunsets. But the real highlight? Incredible predator activity!
🔥 Cooler weather means lions, leopards, and hyenas stay active for longer
🐕 Wild dog denning season—if we find a den, the sightings are unforgettable!
🐘 With less water available, animals gather around waterholes, making for spectacular game viewing
The downside? Early mornings can be very chilly, but a warm blanket and a hot coffee make it all worth it!
As temperatures rise and water sources dwindle, wildlife sightings become even more dramatic and intense. Expect:
🦛 Incredible Big 5 action as animals compete for resources
🦓 Large herds of zebra, buffalo, and elephants moving across the savanna
🦅 Birds start nesting in preparation for summer
Spring is an exciting, high-energy time to be in the bush, perfect for those who love dramatic wildlife encounters!
Every season at Thornybush offers something spectacular. Whether it’s elephants cooling off in the summer heat, wild dogs raising their pups in winter, or the perfect balance of comfort and sightings in autumn—there’s no wrong time for a safari!
But if you’re looking for that sweet spot, where weather, wildlife, and scenery all align beautifully, May is hard to beat! So pack your bags and join us for the safari of a lifetime. 🌍🐾
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