Best Places to Visit in Africa in August

Why

Malawi is small but beautifully formed. Lake Malawi has among the world's most varied population of cichlids, colourful little fish that are a joy to snorkelers. In August, conditions are near perfect, with little to no rain, sunny days and balmy nights. This is a fantastic spot to unwind after a high-season safari, gorilla trek or Kilimanjaro climb.

When to book

Malawi is still an undiscovered destination but accommodation and flights are limited. Chat to an Africa Safari Expert as soon as you think you want to go, especially if it's for a special occasion like a honeymoon.

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Africa's Top 3 kayaking adventures.

Why

It's peak safari season across Africa so the game viewing is excellent and the weather cooler and drier – perfect walking conditions. Zambia is still a ‘safari secret' so relatively uncrowded and ideal for returning safari goers.

When to book

Numbers are limited on walking safaris and lodges are generally small and intimate throughout South Luangwa, indeed throughout Zambia. Chat to us as soon as you're interested in undertaking a walking safari so we can ensure a seamless itinerary for you.

Good to know

• The Top things to do in South Luangwa
• The best places to stay and the top eco-friendly bushcamps in South Luangwa
• An Insider’s guide to walking safaris in South Luangwa

Why

By August, big pods of southern right whales have generally swum up on their annual migration from the Antarctic to take advance of the impending spring in the relatively warmer waters of the Atlantic. Hermanus – less than a two-hour very scenic drive from Cape Town – the world capital for whale watching, these massive mammals often seen in the town's Walker Bay. Elsewhere, the Cape Winelands – also only an hour's drive from Cape Town – are lending themselves to idyllic winter days.

When to book

Whale-watching season usually peaks in August and visitors flock to Hermanus, especially on weekends. Book as far in advance as you can to secure the best accommodation. The good news is that Cape Town and the Winelands are fairly quiet at this time of year – perfect for a last-minute holiday.

Good to know

See what the Cape Winelands have in store for wine and food lovers (Hermanus also has a small but rewarding wine route), or view our top places to stay in the Cape Winelands.

Why

Namibia has an excellent road network and a very low population – only about two million people live in the whole country! This means low traffic numbers and, in August, the Namibian and South African school holidays are over, meaning you'll have plenty of space to yourself.

When to book

Although there isn't a large number of visitors from neighbouring South Africa, it is still peak safari season and remote places like Damaraland and the Kaokoveld have limited upscale accommodation available. Try to arrange your Namibian adventure about six months in advance so you have your first choice of lodge as well as of vehicle.

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Why

The Nyerere is a massive reserve and at this time of year, the safari crowd is hanging out in the Serengeti and Masai Mara, taking the Wildebeest Migration. This means you have the best of both worlds: fantastic sightings with much of the reserve to yourself.

When to book

Since it's peak season, don't leave it too late to get in touch with your Africa Safari Expert. We like to have your safari lined up at least three months before your departure date.

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How to go off the beaten path in Tanzania.