Africa in March: Things to Do & Destinations

1. Tanzania

OUR SAFARI OF A LIFETIME (Serengeti Tanzania)

By March, the grazing in the southern Serengeti typically reduces to stubble, prompting the extensive wildebeest herds to commence their migration westward and northward in pursuit of fresh pastures. Accompanied by thousands of month-old calves, wildebeest generate significant clouds of dust as they traverse the terrain with stoicism. Lagging individuals quickly become targets for vigilant lions, cheetahs, and spotted hyenas.

This is an opportune moment to witness the Wildebeest Migration, and a variety of housing options are available. March is regarded as the low season in Tanzania, signifying unobstructed wildlife observation and economical expenses.

This is an opportune moment to merge a visit to the Serengeti with the renowned Ngorongoro Crater, as it is among the least crowded months for this Big 5 destination. For an optimal combination of two safari areas offering unparalleled wildlife encounters, consider visiting the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in March. Additionally, you can conclude your safari with relaxation on the beautiful island of Zanzibar, where the days are warm and bright, and underwater visibility is optimal for snorkelling and scuba diving.

2. Kenya

The Great Migration – Wildebeest Migration from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara, Crossing Mara River

The Masai Mara is considered as an exceptional year-round safari destination due to its numerous resident species and temperate temperature. However, if you seek to encounter a premier Kenyan reserve devoid of safari crowds, the Masai Mara is the destination to visit in March.

While the mega-herds of the Wildebeest Migration are anticipated around August, the expansive plains of the Masai Mara serve as a refuge for several resident species, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and the renowned big cats of the Mara: lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Cheetahs are exceptionally suited to the Mara’s level plains, rendering it one of the premier locations to observe the world’s swiftest terrestrial mammal pursue its quarry.

A notable feature of any Masai Mara safari is observing the sunrise illuminate the expansive plains from a hot-air balloon. Cultural travellers will delight in the chance to explore local villages for an intriguing insight into traditional Maasai culture, lifestyle, and customs.

A visit to the Masai Mara can be effortlessly combined with other premier safari sites in Kenya, such as Amboseli, renowned for its substantial elephant herds, and the lesser-known Samburu, which offers cultural contacts with the Samburu people within a stunning scenery.

3. Mozambique

Dhow Safaris | Quirimbas Archipelago

The Quirimbas Archipelago is a remedy for the body, mind, and spirit. This picturesque archipelago consists of 27 coral islands situated along Mozambique’s northern coast, including extensive unspoiled private beaches and forested interiors inhabited by monkeys, birds, and crabs with pincers capable of breaking coconuts. It is an ideal location to recline in a hammock after engaging in exceptional snorkelling and scuba diving, and March offers a distinct advantage: it is the optimal period for observing turtle nesting.

Our preferred islets in the Quirimbas Archipelago:

• Medjumbe Island — at about 800 meters in length, this diminutive castaway isle serves as an ideal romantic getaway.
  Quilalea Island – situated within a marine protected area, this uninhabited tropical paradise features an extraordinary diversity of marine life.
• Ibo Island – originating in the early 1600s, this wooded island possesses a captivating history of slavery, piracy, and commerce.

The Quirimbas Archipelago in Mozambique is an exceptional destination to consider in March for those seeking a beach or island getaway to complement their safari experience. Direct flights to the archipelago’s mainland airport are available from South Africa, Tanzania, or Kenya.

4. South Africa

Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park – The Kruger Catwalk

March represents the ‘Goldilocks Season’ in Kruger National Park for temperatures: it is neither excessively hot nor excessively cold, but rather optimal. The summer afternoon thunderstorms are diminishing, and the early morning cold of winter is several months distant. The Kruger is among the premier destinations to explore in March. The area is verdant and vibrant, teeming with colourful avifauna and satisfied fauna. We advise proceeding directly to the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

The private Sabi Sands, adjacent to Kruger National Park’s unfenced western boundary, boasts remarkable wildlife and exquisite luxury hotels. Exclusivity is crucial, granting access to activities prohibited in parks and reserves—off-road game watching and guided nature walks enhance the array of morning and afternoon game drives, providing a more engaging and varied experience.

Cape Town

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA | Best Things To Do In Cape Town (+ Essential Travel Tips!)

What makes South Africa an exceptional holiday destination in March? You may effortlessly merge your Kruger safari with several days in the stunning Cape Town, where locals assert that the weather in March is optimal.

Cape Town is undoubtedly a quintessential ‘have-it-all’ city. Inhabitants are encircled by picturesque mountains and beaches, historical sites, and the verdant valleys of the Cape Winelands. Experiencing almost 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, in contrast to London’s 1,500 hours and New York City’s 2,500 hours. For lively beaches, an energetic nightlife, and exceptional cuisine, Cape Town is the ideal destination in March.

KwaZulu-Natal

The Real South Africa Kwazulu-Natal Province

Graceful horses lazily nodding beneath oak trees, meandering rural paths, and the soothing buzz of bees — is this England in midsummer? Negative, the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands in South Africa during March.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa’s most diverse province, features historic battlefields, game reserves, and an extensive sunlit coastline, with the enchanting Midlands at its core. Grand country estates and spa resorts are nestled within the verdant undulations of its undulating hills, accompanied by some of the nation’s finest gastronomy, all framed by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.

It is a great location for exploration either horseback or with a backpack. Activities include golf, fly-fishing, hot-air ballooning, and birdwatching. Visit in March for temperate, agreeable weather devoid of the humidity and overcast conditions characteristic of a KwaZulu-Natal summer. To enhance the trip, consider incorporating a safari in one of the KwaZulu-Natal wildlife reserves or a tour of the historic Battlefields region.

5. Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls: The Dark Majesty

The phenomenon in Victoria Falls is wholly contingent upon precipitation, similar to many other aspects in Africa. From February to July, the formidable Zambezi River experiences full flooding, with the Falls reaching their most thundering state, typically peaking between March and April.

Brilliant clouds of mist can ascend over 1,300 feet (396 meters) above the waterfall, and the powerful boom of ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ can be heard from 25 miles (40 km) away. Victoria Falls is the ideal destination in March for experiencing the most breathtaking vistas of the world’s largest waterfall at full capacity.

If you seek proximity to Victoria Falls, the Zimbabwean side of the cascade is a viable choice. There are exquisite hotels and cosy lodges available for selection. If you seek a more serene riverfront escape, consider one of the opulent resorts located further upstream on the Zambian side.