For some tips on what to bring on safari go to http://www.sperka.info/prepare-for-safari
When is the best time to visit Thanda and South Africa?
Well, there is no simple answer to this question, but here is my view:
SUMMER (RAINY SEASON) – Core: October to March
If you are looking for very warm (hot) weather (30C+ /90F+), if you want to enjoy the beach, if you want to see most of the country (Cape Town, the wine growing areas, the Garden Route), if you do not mind the occasional rain and if wildlife viewing is not your major priority than I think that the Summer (Rainy Season) is the right time for you.
The rainy season normally starts in October and ends in March (but it can be as early as September and as late as April).
WINTER (DRY SEASON) – Core: May to August
If your priority is wildlife viewing (short grass, good visibility and many animals at waterholes), if you do not mind cool nights (around 5-10 C / around 40-50F) and mild days (around 20-25C / around 70F) then I think you should come in the Winter (Dry Season).
The best dry season months for wildlife viewing are June, July and August.
IN BETWEEN – September to October and March to May
If you are looking for a compromise between the two weather extremes you may want to try September/October or March to May. It is a bit of a gamble but you might have good weather (warm with not too much rain) and quite good wildlife viewing.
Note: The wildlife viewing in September/October is probably better than in March/April/May due to the ‘end of winter vegetation and water shortage’.
SPIDER , INSECTS AND SNAKES
If you are afraid of spiders (phobia) and/or do not like insects in general I would not recommend your travels for October to May. The spiders one usually sees are quite harmless, but they are rather large and numerous :-).
Snakes are very rarely seen and they are usually very shy. So this is normally not a problem at all. Again, if you want to reduce the possibility of meeting one of these interesting reptiles almost to zero than you should travel in winter/dry season (June to August).
If you want to have a chat about your South Africa plans please send a message to info@sperka.com including your phone number (if possible WhatsApp). I will call you!
Unfortunately I do not have the time to answer email inquiries about this subject in writing. Thanks for your understanding.
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