November marks the start of the short rainy season in Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, bringing lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices. The rains are typically short and sporadic, with plenty of sunshine in between. This period is excellent for birdwatching, as migratory species return, and it’s also calving season for herbivores, attracting predators.
Although game viewing is slightly more challenging due to denser vegetation and widely dispersed animals, parks remain vibrant and full of life. The Serengeti’s Great Migration moves into southern Tanzania, and Botswana’s Okavango Delta starts receding, opening up more land-based safaris. With fewer crowds and lush scenery, November is an underrated yet rewarding time for safari enthusiasts.
