Where To Go on Safari Holiday During November
November is a month celebrated by true Africa hands. It is often dismissed for being too hot in the south, and too wet in the east. Wrong wrong wrong! True, November marks a turn of seasons in Southern Africa: the dramatic build-up of heat and the start of the rains: afternoon thunder and lightening and if you’re lucky, life-saving rain. In Kenya and Tanzania this is the season of the short rains.
In a continent as arid as Africa, no prayer forgets to include the hope of rain, and when it does come, what a miraculous sight! Weather patterns the world over are hard to predict, but recent years in Africa seem to purposefully contradict the norm. Mid November should see the clouds burst, the build up to this point is the pinnacle of theater in the bush, the congregation of game around surface water is never greater, competition for space, heat, dust, dehydration, drama and death!
More animals, fewer people
When it comes, rain brings life, it settles the dust, freshens the air, fills the waterholes. November is often referred to as the ‘emerald’ season, a reference to the vivid lushness of the bush, we call it the secret season. Typically a time of year with fewer safari visitors. It nestles between the peak periods, outside of school vacations - lodges drop their rates, often dramatically, and those traveling at this time of year are in for a glut of mind-blowing, crowd-free wildlife spectaculars!
East Africa
Witness wildlife reacting to the changing environment. Head to the Serengeti to see the Great Migration thunder its way back south to feast on the new grazing. The waterholes of Katavi National Park are a heaving, writhing mass of hippos and crocs which disperse with the first rainfall. The tan hides of big cats stand out boldly against the green hills across Kenya. The Maasai Mara settles back into its calmer daily routine, without the migration chasing hoards, but with incredible resident wildlife and all the space to enjoy it.
Southern Africa
Down south, it’s time to celebrate for all photographers, Zambia’s South Luangwa doesn’t get more beautiful or dramatic than this – from leopards stalking thirsty prey on the river bank, to the arrival of tens of thousands of flying migrants. The zebra and wildebeest migration leaves Botswana’s Boteti, heading back to the Makgadikgadi and the dust bowl of the salt pans become shallow lakes packed with flamingo. It’s the last month visitors can enjoy Zimbabwe’s Mana Pool National Park before this favorite African wilderness is off limits for the season, over in Hwange the elephant population is at its height – there is no experience like watching the giant Hwange bulls queuing patiently for their turn at water. How about being a witness to the greatest sand dunes turning green before your eyes, see the desert bloom!
Marine wildlife in November
If marine activity is what you are after, you’ll catch Humpbacks migrating along the Indian Ocean coast, whale sharks off Tanzania, Manta Rays off Mozambique, and turtles right across the east coast beaches. Down on the Cape you’ll hit the height of the Southern Right Whale season, November is a great month to visit the southern edge of the continent: the Cape experiences a climate all of its own and late Spring is a top time to visit.
Chimp trekking in Kibale Forest
Kibale Forest, Uganda
Kibale Forest in western Uganda is home to 13 different species of primate, and is the main area for chimpanzee trekking in the country. Sighting rates are high, and you will have the incredible opportunity to get up close to these fascinating animals.
Leopard tracking at Okonjima
Central Highlands, Namibia
Despite being notoriously shy, leopard sightings are common on Okonjima's 20,000 hectare reserve. These magnificent big cats roam freely on the reserve, and you can radio track them from the comfort of a game-viewing vehicle.
Pangolin Rehabilitation Experience
KwaZulu Natal and the north coast, South Africa
Participate in a pioneering pangolin initiative at Phinda Private Game Reserve.
Reteti Elephant Sanctuary
Northern Kenya, Kenya
Samburu is famed for its impressive elephant population. Go on game drives in search of these magnificent animals and for real enthusiasts a visit to the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is an absolute must!
Activities at El Karama
Laikipia, Northern Kenya, Kenya
El Karama is a private 14,000 acre reserve with no other properties making this a true wilderness location. Guests staying on the reserve have the freedom to enjoy a wide number of activities which are included throughout the stay.
One&Only Nyungwe House
Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda
Nyungwe House is the newest luxury lodge within the One & Only portfolio bringing five star luxury to the Nyungwe Forest Reserve. Nyungwe Rainforest is home to 13 species of primate including Chimpanzees.
Kwando Lagoon Camp
Linyanti, Botswana
Kwando Lagoon Camp is a eight-room camp, lying on the shady banks of the Kwando River and set among tall and ancient African ebony and marula trees, overlooking the Kwando River with its resident pods of hippo, perfect for exploring by boat.
Chitwa Chitwa
Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Greater Kruger, South Africa
Following extensive refurbishment, Chitwa Chitwa has recently re-opened in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. With just eight suites and a private house, it is in a fabulous position within the reserve for excellent game viewing.
Dulini River Lodge
Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Greater Kruger, South Africa
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the game rich Sabi Sand Game Reserve's western sector, Dulini River Lodge's six large suites, each has a private plunge pool and sit in the shade of a grove of ebony trees along the edge of the Sand River.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Hermanus, Garden Route, South Africa
Just 2 hours from Cape Town, Grootbos is a superb family-run nature reserve set on the fynbos-clad hills above Walker Bay. 27 luxurious suites are divided between two lodges, set amongst ancient milkwood trees overlooking a majestic sweep of coastline.
Zarafa Camp
Selinda Concession, Linyanti, Botswana
Situated in The Selinda, a 1,350km private reserve that straddles the Selinda Spillway, Zarafa Camp (which was Zibalianja) offers just four vast and airy luxury tented rooms all set on polished, raised wooden decks with en-suite, open air bathrooms.
&Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge
Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
Phinda Vlei Lodge offers exquisite, classic style and intimacy against the backdrop of truly wild Africa in all her splendour. The lodge comprises six elegant thatched suites to offer that exclusive safari experience.
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Resort
Baa Atoll, Maldives
Surrounded by pristine blue seas and powdery white sand, Anantara Kihavah is nestled in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere reserve, home to abundant marine life where ocean lovers can enjoy snorkeling and diving amongst the vibrant coral reefs.
Duba Plains
Duba Concession, Okavango Delta and Moremi, Botswana
Situated on an island in the furthest reaches of the Okavango Delta, Duba Plains is one of the most remote luxury tented camps in the region. With only six personalized tents, the camp prides itself on intimacy as well as remarkable game viewing.
Entamanu Ngorongoro
Ngorongoro Crater, Northern Tanzania
Entamanu Ngorongoro is a stylish and comfortable tented camp offering unrivaled views of both the Ngorongoro crater and Serengeti. An intimate and consciously constructed camp, Entamanu Ngorongoro is perched on the north western edge of the crater.
Epic Botswana
Okavango Delta & Victoria Falls
Let us take you on a journey through the Okavango Delta to explore two different wilderness areas that promise phenomenal wildlife encounters and immersive activities. We’ll then fly you to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, for exhilarating experiences and an indulgent stay on the Zambezi River. We’ve handpicked some of...
$9,900 pp
Extraordinary Tanzania
Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti
Let us take you on an extraordinary journey through northern Tanzania, where you’ll witness spellbinding landscapes and encounter astonishing wildlife throughout your trip. We’ve hand selected some of the most highly regarded luxury camps in the country, to make sure every aspect of the trip promises unparalleled experiences, expert guiding and...
$10,800 pp
Ultimate Zambia
Victoria Falls - the Zambia side, Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa and Lake Malawi
Let us take you on an extraordinary journey through Zambia, starting with the mighty Victoria Falls before an exclusive wildlife experience in the Lower Zambezi, with a final safari stop in the enchanting Luangwa Valley. We’ll top your adventure off with a private beach retreat in Lake Malawi. We’ve hand selected some of the most highly regarded...
$17,500 pp
Ultimate Tanzania
Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti & Zanzibar
A luxurious and iconic trip taking in some of Tanzania's true highlights and staying at some of the best properties in East Africa. Explore the Rift Valley's wildlife-rich national parks, Masai culture and dramatic scenery, before flying to a pristine beach on the east coast of Zanzibar.
$22,300 pp
Exceptional Victoria Falls, Botswana & Mozambique
Victoria Falls, Linyanti, Okavango Delta & Benguerra Island
Dive into elegance on this exclusive and luxurious tour of Southern Africa that bursts with properties that step away from the norm. Gaze in awe at the majesty of Victoria Falls as it thunders over the brink, search for lions as they stalk the channels of the Okavango before the impossibly soft powder white sands of Mozambique’s irresistible...
$23,100 pp
Extraordinary Namibia
Victoria Falls, The Caprivi & NamibRand Nature Reserve
Fall into infinity in the land of never-ending horizons. Step away from the ordinary as you explore the hidden corners of Namibia, capture the moment in handpicked hotels where it’s impossible to take a bad photo. Glide along the languid waters of Caprivi by boat, where elephants roam along the banks and lions call in the distance. Feel your breath...
$10,300 pp
Ultimate Botswana
Okavango Delta, Linyanti & Makgadikgadi Pans
Botswana has long been known to offer the ultimate safari experience. This stunning itinerary does just that, showcasing some of Botswana’s most luxurious lodges in incredible game viewing areas while offering top-notch service along the way. This, along with the beautiful scenery of the Linyanti, the unique eco-system of the Moremi and the...
$29,400 pp
Ultimate Kenya
Laikipia, Masai Mara & Nairobi
Astonishing wildlife, limitless landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. This guided tour in Kenya is a sensational combination for travelers who enjoy the finer things in life. We’ve hand-selected luxury camps and secured a stay at the world-famous Giraffe Manor so you can enjoy unparalleled memories coupled with seamless service.
$12,400 pp
Ultimate Kenya and Madagascar
Maasai Mara & Madagascar
This wildlife focused itinerary combines a traditional and authentic Kenyan safari which allows you the opportunity to spot big game, and at the right time of year, the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara before you go in search of the rarer lemurs which can only be found in the wilds of Madagascar. Mixing authentic accommodations in the best...
$12,800 pp
Ultimate Madagascar
Mandrare River & Manafiafy
Be amazed by this adventurous and immersive trip that takes you off the tourist trail to some of Madagascar's most beautiful areas. Journey from the capital to the intimate river camp and the stunning luxury beach lodge where you will fall in love with everything Madagascar has to offer. Explore the wildlife rich Mandrare river before flying over...
$7,900 pp
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