January safari holiday: FAQs
What’s the weather like on a safari in January?
The weather will depend on which country in Africa you are visiting. Generally, most countries are in the green season, meaning you can expect warm temperatures and cooler evenings. In East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda) and Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe), January is the wet season, with short rains and lush landscapes. Rain showers are typically brief and don’t disrupt safaris. Key highlights of a safari in January are calving season and birdwatching as migratory birds can be seen.
What should I pack for an African safari in January?
You should pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colors to blend with the environment. As there can be occasional summer rains during January, bring a light waterproof jacket as well as light layers for when the temperature cools at night. You also should bring comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes along with a pair of sandals for around your luxury lodge. Make sure that you pack high SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, insect repellent with DEET, and malaria medication (if you are visiting high-risk areas). It’s also a good idea to bring a camera, binoculars, and a power bank for electronics. Finally, bring a refillable water bottle and a small daypack for use during safari experiences.
Can I visit Kruger National Park in January?
Yes, January is an excellent month to visit Kruger National Park in South Africa, one of the largest safari parks in Africa. During the summer rainy season, Kruger National Park is lush and green, making for picturesque scenery and enjoying the park when its natural beauty is at its best. January is also the calving season, meaning you will likely see adorable newborn animals and thrilling predator-prey interactions.
What countries can I visit in East Africa in January?
Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda are all popular countries to visit for a safari in January. If you want to visit Africa in January, we can help. Contact our luxury travel specialists today.
What wildlife will I encounter on safari in January?
In January, you’ll encounter a wealth of wildlife during your African safari, particularly during the green season. Here’s what you can expect:
- Baby animals – January is calving season, so you’ll see many adorable young animals, such as wildebeest, zebras, and antelope.
- Big Five – Expect to see lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos, especially in game-rich parks like Kruger, the Serengeti, and the Masai Mara.
- Birdlife – With migratory birds present, January is excellent for birdwatching, including species like flamingos, raptors, and waterfowl.
- Predators – Big cats like lions, cheetahs, and leopards are active, particularly during the calving season, while wild dogs are also more visible.
- Gorillas – In Rwanda and Uganda, January is an excellent time for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, with mild weather and clearer trails.
No matter what wildlife you want to tick off your bucket list, we can help. Contact our African safari specialists and let us help you plan a bespoke safari to Africa in January.
What are some of the best African wildlife experiences in January?
In January, Africa offers some of the best wildlife experiences, thanks to the green season and calving season. Here are some top experiences:
- Gorilla Trekking – Visit Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for an unforgettable experience with mountain gorillas in lush, green surroundings.
- Calving Season in the Serengeti – Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti as thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
- Predator Action in Masai Mara – The Masai Mara offers incredible predator sightings, with lions, cheetahs, and leopards hunting young prey during the calving season.
- Elephant Herds in Amboseli – See large herds of elephants against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park, especially during the dry season when animals congregate around water sources.
- Birdwatching in Kruger – January is an excellent time for birdwatching in Kruger National Park, where migratory bird species like flamingos, raptors, and waterfowl are abundant.
- Safari in Ngorongoro Crater – Spot the Big Five in the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, with a diverse array of wildlife, including rhinos, buffalo, and elephants, all in the lush, green environment of the crater.
Why choose us for a safari in January to Africa?
As a leading luxury travel company, we have been pioneering safari experiences in Africa for decades. We focus on creating bespoke safari experiences that leave a positive, lasting legacy in Africa, working with luxury accommodations and tour operators that adhere to our high standards of conservation and sustainability. If you want to go on a safari in January, we can help. We excel at creating bespoke safari experiences in some of Africa’s most breathtaking destinations. Let us create a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience in Africa. Contact us today to book your January safari experience.