January
Kenya Tanzania Uganda Where to go on january safari in east africa
Where to go on january safari in east africa

January is a great time to visit East Africa, with warm temperatures, dry weather, and fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities. Here are some top destinations to consider:

1. Tanzania

  • Zanzibarโ€”Perfect for beach lovers with white sands, turquoise waters, and a mix of culture in Stone Town.

  • Serengeti National Parkโ€”Witness the Great Migration (calving season begins in the southern Serengeti).

  • Ngorongoro Craterโ€”Incredible wildlife density in a volcanic caldera.

  • Mount Kilimanjaroโ€”Good trekking conditions in January (dry season).

2. Kenya

  • Maasai Maraโ€”While the Great Migration is in Tanzania, the Mara still has excellent wildlife viewing.

  • Amboseli National Parkโ€”stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds.

  • Diani Beachโ€”Relax on Kenyaโ€™s best beaches after a safari.

3. Uganda

  • Bwindi Impenetrable Forestโ€”Trek to see mountain gorillas (dry season makes hiking easier).

  • Murchison Fallsโ€”Great for wildlife safaris and Nile River cruises.

  • Kibale Forestโ€”Best for chimpanzee tracking.

4. Rwanda

  • Volcanoes National Park โ€“ Gorilla trekking in cool, dry conditions.

  • Nyungwe Forest โ€“ Canopy walks and chimpanzee encounters.

  • Lake Kivuโ€”Relax by the scenic lake after trekking.

5. Ethiopia

  • Simien Mountainsโ€”Ideal for trekking with clear skies and cool temperatures.

  • Lalibela โ€“ Visit the famous rock-hewn churches during the dry season.

  • Danakil Depressionโ€”Explore one of the hottest places on Earth (best visited in cooler months).

6. Madagascar

  • Nosy Be โ€“ Beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and whale shark sightings (seasonal).

  • Andasibe-Mantadia National Parkโ€”Spot lemurs and unique wildlife.

Why January?

  • Dry season in most regions (great for safaris & trekking).

  • Warm temperatures (except highland areas like Ethiopiaโ€™s Simien Mountains).

  • Fewer crowds compared to peak seasons (July-October).