Introducing the green season
In southern Africa, the ‘green season’ or ‘emerald season’ refers to the summer (typically November thru March) when the region receives most of its annual rainfall. This results in a profusion of new plant growth, hence the name.
It’s traditionally been regarded as a less ideal time to book a safari, but we’re here to tell you that that’s certainly not the case – and to encourage you to take a fresh look at green season safaris. Here are some of our favorite destinations to see during this time; Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Africa and Namibia.
Get away from the crowds
The African wilderness is never crowded, of course – and that’s part of its appeal. That said, the peak season (which coincides with the southern African dry season from April to October) can see lodges get booked out months in advance and prices tend to be higher at this time.
In contrast, the green season typically offers a tempting combination of lower rates and greater availability in all aspects of the safari experience, from lodge accommodation to seats on light aircraft flights, and value-adds such as private guides and exclusive-use safari vehicles. Have a look at some of our Best of Botswana Itinerary where you are bound to have an incredible time, especially in the Okavango Delta.
The beauty of the green season
This really cannot be overstated – the bush is at its most visually stunning after the rains. A green flush spreads across the landscape, and colorful flowers burst into bloom on many trees and plants. Long-dry waterholes, riverbeds and streams fill with water again, and this can absolutely transform the look and feel of each area.
The wildlife is not slow to respond to these changes – many species plan their reproductive cycles around the return of the rains, so that there will be plenty of food for their young to eat. Some antelope, like impalas, can even delay giving birth if the rains come late.
Coordinated breeding also has the advantage that a great many young animals are born at around the same time, providing them with safety in numbers. The opportunity to see so many baby animals together adds to the sense of wonder that the green season brings, and offers wonderful photographic opportunities.
Non-stop action
Of course, the sudden appearance of so many young and potentially vulnerable animals doesn’t go unnoticed by predators. The green season can also be a time of plenty for lions, leopards, wild dogs and hyenas – traveling at this time means you are much more likely to see fast-paced interaction between predators and prey. While this is all part of the circle of life, the outcome of a hunt is not always easy to watch, which is something to bear in mind when booking a safari.
Unforgettable images
The green season is an absolute gift to photographers. The rain tends to knock any dust out of the air, leaving it wonderfully clear. This results in breathtaking pictures of animals, birds and landscapes. It’s important to look up, too, as the cloud formations at this time of year are often spectacular.
Here is an itinerary that is a photographers dream, starting off in Zimbabwe at Victoria Falls and ending off in Cape Town, South Africa – marvelling at the infamous Table Mountain. Wonder to Wonder is bound to increase your photographic library and tick this trip off of the bucker list. Another itinerary that we would highly recommend is Dunes & Desert based in the incredible Namibia desert. A place where photographers will get lost among the infamous dunes and star lit skies.
Weather
That brings us to the question of weather – summer in southern Africa tends to be a time of higher temperatures with most of the rain happening during short, sharp afternoon cloudbursts. These bring relief from the heat and, as we’ve mentioned, make the air clearer and the light even better for photography. Because of this, it’s unlikely that the rain will in any way take away from your experience.
To enjoy the green season for yourself, contact Journey Beyond today.