Africa in June: When/Where to Go, Things to Do & Weather
The premier wildlife destinations in Southern Africa are found under clear skies in June. The cool evenings and brisk mornings may catch some visitors off guard (bring warm clothing and dress in layers for game drives!), but in Southern Africa, there is minimal rainfall from June to October, with the exception of the Cape Town and Garden Route coastlines. Reduced precipitation and water availability result in wildlife congregating around the few remaining rivers and waterholes, facilitating the easy location of animals. Anticipate superb wildlife observation in pleasant circumstances—days are brief, eliminating the necessity for early morning game drives, and the mosquitoes and insects of the rainy season have mostly vanished.
The vegetation is sparse, facilitating the spotting of animals, and the peak tourist season is approximately one month away. In East Africa, June presents intriguing developments. Africa’s premier wildlife events showcase their most captivating attractions. This is an opportune moment to merge an East African wildlife safari in Kenya or Tanzania with either gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Uganda, or Congo, or a retreat to Zanzibar, located just off the Tanzanian coast. Since, we have been meticulously crafting African safari itineraries for numerous travellers worldwide. Drawing from personal experience, here are our top recommended destinations for June.
Africa in May: Things to Do & Destinations
1. Uganda, Rwanda & Congo
Rwanda vs. Uganda: Which is the Best Destination for Gorilla Trekking
The time from June to September represents one of the driest intervals in Africa’s equatorial rainforests, rendering Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo the optimal destinations for gorilla trekking in June. In June, Uganda’s rainfall is one-fifth of its March levels; in Rwanda, it has decreased to approximately 10 percent of the levels recorded in March and April, with a comparable decline in rainfall in Congo from May to June. There will be some precipitation, but it will not resemble an extended deluge requiring rubber boots and a poncho.
Uganda’s gorilla trekking safaris often have extended itineraries that integrate game watching and chimpanzee trekking in several parks and reserves. Rwanda provides the opportunity to discover its picturesque city, Kigali, followed by a transfer to Volcanoes National Park a few hours later to embark on a gorilla trek after breakfast the subsequent morning. Congo, being one of Africa’s most recent and exhilarating gorilla trekking locales, offers adventurous tourists the opportunity to observe western lowland gorillas in an authentically untamed and pristine environment.
June offers optimal hiking conditions and enhanced sunlight for photography, making it ideal for gorilla trekking – consult our comprehensive information on the premier locations to observe gorillas and their comparative attributes.
2. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Beginning early June, the migratory wildebeest herds reach the centre Serengeti, when they commence preparations for the most arduous segment of their journey: the river crossings. In the forthcoming month, the herds will commence their migration northward, settling along the banks of the Grumeti River and observing the still waters.
New pastures are located on the opposite side… The wildebeest are famished following their journey from the south. Once the tension dissipates, individuals commence crossing in small groups before the tempest erupts, leading to the herds surging across collectively. What ensues is Mother Nature at her most poignant.
The Nile crocodile, measuring up to 5 meters (16 feet) in length and weighing between 300 and 900 kilogrammes (660 and 2,000 pounds), is one of Africa’s foremost apex predators. This enormous reptile, unchanged since the era of the dinosaurs, possesses around 60 dagger-like teeth and has one of the most potent bites in the animal kingdom. Crocodiles erupt from the water like armoured missiles, seizing the paddling wildebeest in a dramatic exhibition of nature’s primal authenticity.
3. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Is a Masai Mara Safari Worth the Hype? (Honest Opinion)
In life, there is invariably a ‘but.’ The Serengeti river crossings are extraordinarily impressive; yet, you will need to share the experience. This episode of the Wildebeest Migration is much anticipated, particularly by crocodiles, and prime locations along the riverbanks are occupied by game-drive vehicles.
In Kenya’s Masai Mara, the absence of human tourists is notable (as they are predominantly in the Serengeti), while a plethora of local wildlife remains observable. Following the traversal of the Grumeti and Mara Rivers, the wildebeest herds are expected to reach the Masai Mara around August; yet, the Mara is preparing for their arrival: vegetation flourishes as predators hone their hunting abilities. Elephants, giraffes, and buffalo inhabit the area year-round, while the reserve’s big cats (lions, leopards, and cheetahs) are abundant and readily observable in June.
The Masai Mara is an ideal destination in June due to more temperate conditions (the climate is milder and dryer compared to the preceding months) and a broader selection of accommodations than in August or September, when the highly coveted Wildebeest Migration occurs. Select between the undeniably exceptional Masai Mara National Reserve or opt for one of the adjacent private conservancies for a more personal safari experience, including non-reserve activities such as nocturnal drives and guided excursions.
4. Kruger Park, South Africa
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AFRICA
If you seek nearly assured encounters with the Big 5, then Kruger is the destination for June. South Africa’s premier safari location boasts the nation’s highest wildlife diversity, while the private game reserves of Kruger offer unmatched luxury.
The arid winter months from May to October are regarded as the optimal period for wildlife observation in Kruger. The flora is diminished and scarce during this season, facilitating the observation and tracking of animals. The period from June to August in the Kruger is characterised by a low risk of malaria, minimal rainfall, and agreeable daytime temperatures, accompanied by pleasantly chilly nights.
The Kruger’s private game reserves extend along a significant portion of the national park’s western perimeter. The areas are not enclosed within the park, allowing animals to traverse freely, and feature some renowned innovators of the ‘luxury safari‘ idea. In addition to anticipating five-star accommodations and exceptional guidance, your likelihood of encountering the Big 5 is nearly assured. They have less limitations compared to the national park, such as guided nature hikes and off-road game driving for intimate animal interactions.
5. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar Island – Drone 🇹🇿 Tanzania Summer Vibes
This destination is renowned primarily for its beaches. Some of East Africa’s finest attractions are located in Zanzibar and are readily accessible from family-friendly resorts, honeymoon retreats, and boutique lodges. If your fascination with seas encompasses underwater activities, Zanzibar boasts numerous premier diving locations. The northern reefs of the island are the optimal destinations in June for exceptional diving and snorkelling conditions.