Africa in January

Where to go in January.

10 destinations are at their best in January, 11 are good, and 3 are better left for another month.

What happens in January

  • SerengetiCalving season in the southern Serengeti, with predators close behind.
  • Masai MaraShort dry season with green plains and lower park fees.
  • Mount KilimanjaroDry, clear and quieter than the July peak.
  • ZanzibarCalm, hot and dry.
  • Gorilla trekking in UgandaDry spell with good trekking and clear views.
  • Okavango DeltaGreen season: lower rates, newborn animals, migratory birds.
  • Cape Town and the WinelandsPeak summer and beach season.
  • Northern EthiopiaTimkat (Epiphany) celebrations, especially in Gondar and Lalibela.
  • Cabo VerdeReliable winter sun a short flight from Europe.

Best in January

Also good

Better another month

  • South LuangwaMany camps close in the rainy season.
  • MauritiusCyclone season brings storms and humidity.
  • MadagascarCyclone season washes out roads.

Frequently asked questions

Where is best to go in Africa in January?

Serengeti, Masai Mara, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, Gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Gorilla trekking in Uganda, Cape Town and the Winelands, Cairo, Luxor and the Nile, Northern Ethiopia, Cabo Verde.

Where should I avoid in January?

South Luangwa (many camps close in the rainy season); Mauritius (cyclone season brings storms and humidity); Madagascar (cyclone season washes out roads).

Based on long-term climate patterns and wildlife cycles. Weather varies year to year.