October is a transitional but rewarding safari month in East Africa, especially for travelers looking to avoid peak crowds while still enjoying incredible wildlife sightings. The dry season begins to shift toward the short rains later in the month, making early to mid-October ideal.

Here’s where to go on safari in East Africa in October:

🦁 Top Safari Destinations in October – East Africa

Tanzania

Northern Serengeti (Kogatende & Lamai)

• 🐃 The Great Migration is moving south—it's still possible to catch late river crossings.

• 🦁 Predator activity remains high (lions, leopards, and cheetahs).

Central Serengeti (Seronera)

• 🎯 Herds begin moving here—great for resident wildlife and early migration return.

• 🦓 Excellent for zebra sightings on the plains.

Ruaha National Park

• 🐘 Remote and dry bushveld teeming with elephants and lions.

• 🌅 Low tourist density—an ideal off-the-beaten-path experience.

Kenya

Masai Mara National Reserve

• 🦓 Last glimpse of the wildebeest herds before they migrate south to Serengeti.

• 🦁 Big cats are still hunting migrating animals—thrilling encounters.

Samburu National Reserve

• 🦒 Unique northern species like Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and Somali ostrich.

• 🌿 Less rain than the south, ideal for late-season safaris.

Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

• 🦍 Best month for dry-trail gorilla trekking before the short rains begin.

• 🧘‍♂️ Quieter trekking experience than peak months like July-August.

Murchison Falls National Park

• 🦛 Fantastic boat safaris on the Nile.

• 🐘 Great elephant and giraffe sightings in drier savannah areas.

✅ Summary Table