GREAT PLAINS ADVENTURES: A GUIDE TO AFRICAN SAFARI SEASONS
Embark on a journey with Great Plains, the iconic eco-tourism company founded by National Geographic explorer-filmmakers Dereck and Beverly Joubert, as they share exclusive seasonal recommendations for their 14 camps across Botswana, Kenya, and Zimbabwe.
Fancy an African Safari in 2025? Known for its unparalleled wildlife viewing and stunning landscapes, Great Plains offers curated experiences, guiding guests through the best moments to experience Africa’s rich ecosystems.
“We’ve spent years filming for National Geographic across Africa, learning precisely when the wildlife and landscapes are most spectacular and quiet. Our goal is to ensure you have the most rewarding safari possible,” shares Dereck Joubert, CEO and Founder of Great Plains. This expertise ensures that every visit aligns with the magic of each season, whether you’re an avid photographer, a wildlife lover, or an adventure seeker.
Botswana’s Unique Wilderness
With seven Great Plains camps in Botswana, travelers are welcomed into the lush Okavango Delta and the remarkable Selinda Spillway.
- January to March: Experience Botswana’s warm, rainy season with dramatic landscapes and sightings of elephants, buffalo, and rare bird species.
- April to June: As the waters begin to rise, witness blooming waterlilies, increased hippo activity, and clear night skies with the Scorpio constellation as a backdrop.
- July to September: Cooler temperatures bring a high-water season, perfect for water-based safaris. Elephants gather in large herds, and wild dogs can be seen at their dens.
- October to December: The “baby season” begins as rains return, drawing animals to sprouting grasses and bird lovers to a variety of species.
For an exclusive Botswana experience, Great Plains offers a range of eco-luxe camps, including the secluded Sitatunga Private Island, Duba Plains Camp, and Selinda Explorers Camp along the Selinda Spillway.
Mara Plains Camp
Kenya’s Iconic Landscapes
From the Masai Mara to the Chyulu Hills, Great Plains brings travelers a truly immersive East African adventure.
- January to March: Enjoy clear skies with sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the perfect backdrop for safari drives, baby animals, and predator sightings in the “secret quiet time” of the Mara.
- April to June: As the “time of plenty” begins, lush landscapes and resident migrations fill Kenya with wildlife. Catch displays by widowbirds and the peak elephant breeding season.
- July to September: Witness the iconic wildebeest migration with peak river crossings, cooler temperatures, and enhanced visibility across the plains.
- October to December: Short rains and blooming flora make this a paradise for flower lovers and bird watchers, with antelope breeding season in full swing and dramatic thunderstorms that are photographer’s dreams.
In Kenya, experience the Great Plains collection including Mara Plains Camp and the treehouse-style Mara Toto Tree Camp.
Zimbabwe’s Untamed Beauty
Great Plains’ two Zimbabwean camps provide travelers with prime views of Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River.
- January to March: Lush landscapes and peak bird-watching opportunities make this season ideal for nature lovers.
- April to June: As the bush begins to dry, wildlife concentrates along the Zambezi floodplain, offering sightings of swimming elephants and breathtaking views of the falls at their fullest in May.
- July to September: With mild days and increased predator sightings, the Zambezi floodplain is ideal for exploration. Victoria Falls becomes visible as water volume decreases, perfect for landscape photography.
- October to December: Warm temperatures, antelope birthing season, and building thunderclouds provide dynamic photo opportunities, with the chance to spot the elusive African Pitta at Tembo Plains Camp.
Tucked into riverine forests along the Zambezi, Tembo Plains Camp and Mpala Jena provide an ideal base for safari-goers exploring Zimbabwe and the magnificent Victoria Falls.
From Botswana’s waterways to Kenya’s savannas and Zimbabwe’s powerful rivers, Great Plains ensures that each season brings you the best of Africa’s wilderness. Discover the natural world through an unparalleled experience, guided by expert explorers passionate about sharing Africa’s beauty year-round.
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