2 April 2025
March offers travellers a unique chance to experience Botswana in its low season, making it a great destination for budget-conscious safari enthusiasts. While many travellers flock to more famous destinations, Botswana offers an under-the-radar adventure, ideal for those seeking a more exclusive experience.
In this tranquil southern African country, the rainy season is just starting to wind down, and safari operators offer significantly reduced prices. For those looking to see the Big Five and experience the vast wilderness of Africa, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
The Chobe National Park in Botswana is home to the largest population of elephants in the world, approximately 120,000. Its abundant wildlife and impressive landscapes offer travellers the chance to witness elephants in their natural habitat. Additionally, the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park features some of the largest salt pans on the planet, providing an extraordinary view of Botswana’s unique ecosystem. However, the true star is the Okavango Delta, a massive inland delta that expands dramatically after the rains. By the end of March, it reaches its maximum size, creating a stunning waterway system that can be explored by canoe.
South Africa: A safari hotspot
South Africa remains one of the most popular safari destinations, offering some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the world. While Kruger National Park is widely renowned for its Big Five sightings, March is considered a shoulder season, and this can lead to more crowds than in other parts of the country. Nevertheless, Kruger National Park remains an iconic destination for seeing lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo in one of the most diverse ecosystems on the continent.
For those seeking a less crowded experience, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve offers a quieter, more personal safari. This reserve is known for its rhino conservation efforts and gives visitors the chance to see these majestic animals up close. The Madikwe Game Reserve is another peaceful option, providing exclusive wildlife encounters without the large crowds of Kruger. For bird watchers, Karongwe Game Reserve offers an excellent opportunity to observe a wide range of bird species while walking along tranquil rivers.
Kenya: A convenient safari destination
Traveling to Kenya is made easy by daily direct flights from major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and London to Nairobi, the country’s capital. For those interested in wildlife viewing, Kenya offers diverse ecosystems and an array of safari options. In March, the Masai Mara National Reserve is not yet teeming with the Great Wildebeest Migration, but visitors can witness lions hunting and giraffes roaming freely at Meru National Park. Additionally, Lake Nakuru National Park attracts large flocks of flamingos, creating an unforgettable sight for bird lovers.
Tanzania: Safari in the Serengeti
March is a fantastic time to visit Tanzania, particularly for those looking to experience the calving season in the Serengeti National Park. At the start of the month, thousands of wildebeest calves are born, attracting predators such as lions and cheetahs, offering plenty of action for photographers. The Northern Circuit in Tanzania, including the Serengeti and Tarangire National Park, is the best region to visit during March, as it tends to experience less rain than the south.
While Serengeti National Park is famous for its Big Five, spotting them can be more challenging in March due to the weather. Nevertheless, the presence of newly born wildebeest and the dramatic action of predator-prey interactions make it a great time for wildlife photography.
Uganda and Namibia: Unique safari experiences
Uganda offers the rare opportunity to observe mountain gorillas at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This park is one of the only places where these critically endangered creatures can be found. The three-day gorilla trekking excursion here is a bucket-list activity, but with a high price tag due to the limited number of permits issued daily.
In Namibia, Etosha National Park stands out for its otherworldly landscapes, including the Etosha Pan. This salt flat attracts various species such as cheetahs and rhinos, and visitors can explore the park on self-drive safaris. Etosha is an essential stop for any serious wildlife enthusiast, and the park’s well-maintained roads make it easy to navigate on your own.
Weather considerations for March safaris
While planning a safari in March, travelers should be aware of the weather patterns in the various regions. In Botswana, South Africa, and Kenya, conditions are typically pleasant, with occasional rainfall, but it’s still a great time to visit. The weather in these regions is milder compared to the hotter months of the year.
For example, Kenya experiences dry weather at the start of the month, but rain begins to pick up later. Tanzania sees similar conditions, with a warm start to March before the Masika rains arrive. In Uganda, the rainy season has officially begun, though heavy rains are yet to set in.
Packing essentials for your safari
A safari requires careful packing, as travelers will need to be prepared for diverse weather conditions. It’s advisable to pack light, breathable clothing for daytime safari drives, as well as layers for the cooler mornings and evenings. Rain gear is essential for unexpected showers, and sturdy shoes are necessary for trekking in the wild.
Additionally, don’t forget essentials like mosquito repellent, a camera with extra batteries, and binoculars for spotting wildlife from a distance.
The impact on the travel industry
March presents an opportunity for the travel industry to cater to budget-conscious travelers seeking safari experiences. With fewer visitors and lower prices, this period becomes an attractive alternative for those wanting to explore Africa without the high costs typically associated with peak-season safaris.
The reduced number of tourists also means less crowded parks, making it a perfect time for exclusive experiences in lesser-known destinations such as Botswana. These factors contribute to the overall appeal of March for African safaris, driving increased interest from travelers worldwide.
