February is a time of year when we would recommend to generally avoid Southern Africa due to the high humidity, high temperatures and the high rainfall. At this time of year, East Africa should be the destination of your choice. Whether you are looking to soak up the sun on a Zanzibar beach or if you are wanting to trek to find gorillas in the forests of Uganda, February offers it all.
Where to go in East Africa in February?
Tanzania in February: The Serengeti
February is the peak of the calving season in the Serengeti National Park with over half a million wildebeest being born on the Southern plains. Predator-prey interactions are a common spectacle as the battle for life takes place in front of your eyes. Camps tend to be quieter during this month due the chance of rainfall but this generally means lower camp rates. Any rain that does fall, is often short lived and doesn't affect game drives. The wildebeest are constantly on the move during this time, following the rains as it rejuvenates areas of grassland.
Zanzibar in February
A great addition to any safari in Tanzania is only a short flight away. During February, Zanzibar tends to be dry and hot, although it can be humid at times. The hot and dry weather makes relaxing on the beach perfect for anyone wishing to soak up some sun away from their own winter. During February, a major highlight is the Sauti za Busara Music Festival which takes place over four days in Stone Town.
Uganda in February: Bwindi
Due to Uganda's location on the equator and its elevation above sea level, it has a year round constant twelve hours of daylight with a climate that doesn't experience high heat or humidity. We therefore tend to say that Gorilla trekking can be undertaken at any time of the year. February is the end of the short dry season and certainly provides a fantastic opportunity to view the Great Apes in their natural habitat. At this time the foliage is thinner and paths are easier to follow whilst trekking.
Where to go in Southern Africa in February?
In Southern Africa, for safaris February is not great as previously mentioned. However, down in Cape Town it is a fantastic time to go. It is hot and dry in February making for an excellent city break to do on its own, or potentially if you have a lot of time and budget, to combine with East Africa safari.