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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO ON SAFARI.

The question of the best time to go on safari is frequently asked by visitors to any game lodge, and the truth is, there is no single “best” time. The wildlife is abundant throughout the year, and it largely comes down to personal preference. It also depends on the rest of your travel itinerary, as South Africa is a vast country with diverse climates and temperatures. This article focuses on safaris around the Kruger National Park, where Ximuwu Safari Lodge is located.

 

Year-Round Wildlife

At Kruger National Park, animal activity is plentiful year-round, and much depends on what kind of experience you prefer. Some guests like to combine their safari with visits to cities like Cape Town, which doesn’t always guarantee good weather at both locations simultaneously.

 

Summer Rainy Season (November – March)

Our summer, from the end of November to March, is the rainy season, with an average annual rainfall of 450mm. The bushveld looks lush, and rivers and waterholes fill up. The first summer rains bring the arrival of hundreds of newborn impala lambs, making it a great time for spotting wildlife and capturing photographs. This period also attracts predators like cheetahs, leopards, lions, African wild dogs, and hyenas, providing many exciting sightings.

Migratory birds, such as the woodland kingfisher, Wahlberg eagle, red-crested cuckoo, and Amur falcon, return during this season. However, the grass is long and trees are full of foliage, which can make spotting animals a bit more challenging.

The temperatures can reach up to the high 30s in Celsius, so we advise planning game drives early in the morning and late in the afternoon to avoid the heat.

 

Winter Dry Season (April – October)

While many guests prefer to escape the northern hemisphere’s winter by coming to Africa during our summer, the best time for wildlife observation is actually during our winter. The bushveld is open, grass is low, and animals migrate towards waterholes and non-perennial rivers due to the dry conditions. The waterhole in front of our lodge becomes a hive of activity, offering excellent wildlife viewing from the comfort of our deck.

Although the days are pleasant and warm, early mornings and late afternoons can be chilly. We provide warm water bottles and blankets for morning game drives, and you can warm up with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate during our coffee stops. Afternoon drives often start when it’s still warm, with drink stops at sunset featuring a selection of wines, gin and tonic, beers, or your preferred beverages. After sunset, the temperatures drop again, and fireplaces in both the general area and your room are lit to keep you warm.

Nights are cool, and post-dinner drinks around the campfire—either in the bush after a bush dinner or in our unique round sit Boma with views of the waterhole—offer a perfect end to the day.

 

Cape Town Weather

For those combining their safari with a trip to Cape Town, it’s helpful to know that Cape Town experiences most of its rainfall in June, July, and August, while the Klaserie region’s rains occur in the summer months of November to March. Understanding these different weather patterns can help you plan a more seamless and enjoyable trip.

 

Conclusion

So, when is the best time to go on safari? It ultimately comes down to personal preference and when you can find the time to travel. Rest assured, a trip to South Africa is worth it any time of the year. At Ximuwu Safari Lodge, we are ready to provide you with unforgettable experiences and help you make the most of your safari adventure, regardless of the season.

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  • This morning our airstrip became the stage for a beautiful journey of giraffes on the move. Tall, elegant, and perfectly in sync, they made their way across the runway — a gentle reminder that at Ximuwu, the wild always calls the shots. 🦒✨

We’ve captured all the magic in our stories, so be sure to catch the full journey of these graceful giants!

#Ximuwu #JourneyOfGiraffes #SafariMagic #LifeAtXimuwu
  • A feel-good Sunday update from Ximuwu… 🦁

Last week we spent time with the Sark pride, all gathered around a giraffe carcass. In between feeding, the little ones were busy climbing over each other, grooming, and seeking cuddles and attention from their moms.

It was such a heartwarming scene — a reminder that even in the wild, family bonds are everything. Watching the pride interact, with young and older cubs all jostling for affection, is what makes safari moments so unforgettable.
🎥 @rudihulshof 

#Ximuwu #FeelGoodSunday #SarkPride #LionFamily #LionCubs #WildlifeMoments #SafariLife #GreaterKruger
  • This morning’s breakfast view was one to remember… 

As we sipped our coffee, a gentle giant strolled in for a drink at the waterhole right in front of the lodge. There’s something so magical about sharing these quiet moments with the wildlife who call Ximuwu home.

It’s never just breakfast here – it’s an experience ❤️

#Ximuwu#BreakfastWithAView #SafariMagic #WildlifeMoments #GiraffeLove #SafariLife #LuxurySafari
  • Another stunning review from one of our recent guests. Thank you so much for staying with us and we can't wait to welcome you again!

“ Warm group welcome by the staff upon arrival. Butler Albert and manager Melinda catered to all our needs with friendly, personalized service. Warm, kind, and genuinely happy staff across the board

Guide MK and tracker Bernard were knowledgeable, kind, funny, and enjoyable to spend 6+hours a day tracking and observing animals with them.
The extensive private game reserve with only 2 vehicles from the lodge ( at maximum) and maybe another one or two from local landowners made it feel like you were really exploring the wild bush. The variety of wildlife and birds was mind-blowing. We arrived with low expectations and were so grateful to benefit from luck since the animals can come and go as they please and our talented guide and tracker to see the big 5 and many other animals.

Honestly, I was sceptical about the helicopter ride, but it was a phenomenal perspective of the area we’ve been getting to know by vehicle. Again, we saw so many animals and the pilot’s joy at seeing them was genuine, even though she clearly sees these types of animals regularly.

Incredible food by Chef Amanda. The meals were creative and delicious. She was happy to tailor to different tastes or make something completely different if the planned menu didn't meet your fancy. We also had two lovely meals in the bush.

Facilities both inside and out were beautifully designed and impeccably maintained. It was designed to accommodate wheelchair users’ needs. However, that didn't take away from the non-wheelchair users' experience. It was comfortable luxury for all guests.

Even though this was a bucket list trip, I dream about how we can make another visit to Ximuwu a reality.

I highly recommend Ximuwu lodge for any traveler!”
  • The wild dog pups are thriving at Ximuwu – healthy, playful, and full of character!

Over the past few weeks, every guest has had the rare privilege of watching them grow, from those oversized paws and ears to the boundless energy that keeps the whole pack on the move.

It’s a true gift to spend time with one of Africa’s most endangered species, and even more so to watch the next generation finding their place in the wild.

#Ximuwu #WildDogs #EndangeredSpecies #GreaterKruger #SafariMagic
  • Just after sunrise this morning, we found him — a magnificent male lion, mane glowing in the golden light. 

As the bush slowly woke up, his roar rolled across the reserve, a powerful reminder of who truly rules here.

Sound up for this one — it’s the kind of roar that gives you goosebumps.
A magical start to the day and the perfect way to wish you all a Happy Caturday from Ximuwu. 🦁✨

#ximuwu #bigcats #LionRoar #BigCatLove #CaturdayVibes #GoldenHourMagic #WildlifeDaily #SafariLife #NatureBrilliance #AfricanSafari #LionSightings #WildlifePerfection #BushMoments #SafariAdventure #klaserieprivatenaturereserve #SouthAfricaWildlife
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