February is one of the best months for safari in East Africa, offering ideal weather, excellent wildlife viewing, and fewer crowds than peak months like JulyโAugust. Hereโs a guide to where to go on safari in East Africa in February:
Why go:
Calving season of the Great Migration.
Over 500,000 wildebeest are born in the southern Serengeti/Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Ndutu).
Big cats are very active due to easy prey.
Excellent for photographers and big game lovers.
Top Areas:
Ndutu Plains (Southern Serengeti & Ngorongoro)
Lake Ndutu
Kusini Camp area
Kenya โ Maasai Mara (off-peak experience)
Why go:
Quieter than the migration months.
Big cats and resident wildlife are still abundant.
Beautiful clear skies and good visibility.
Ideal for luxury lodges with fewer tourists.
Uganda โ Gorilla Trekking & Primates
Why go:
Dry seasonโperfect for gorilla and chimp trekking.
Forest paths are less muddy.
February is excellent for birdwatching.
Top Parks:
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Gorilla Trekking)
Kibale Forest (Chimpanzees)
Queen Elizabeth National Park
| Country | Best Destination | Highlight | Wildlife Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzania | Ndutu (Serengeti) | Wildebeest calving, big cats | Big 5, Migration |
| Kenya | Maasai Mara | Quiet game drives, resident cats | Lions, Elephants, Gazelles |
| Uganda | Bwindi, Kibale | Gorilla & chimp trekking | Primates & Birds |
