Best Places to Travel in Africa from June to September: Iconic & Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
After traveling through more than 100 countries across the globe, I’ve learned that Africa offers an unmatched variety of experiences—especially during the months when much of the world is focused on summer getaways. From iconic wildlife safaris to remote island escapes and high-altitude kingdoms, these African destinations deliver unforgettable adventures between June and September.hese months align with the dry season in many regions—ideal for safaris, trekking, and cultural immersion. While classics like Tanzania and Kenya deliver unforgettable wildlife experiences, this list also includes two off-the-beaten-path gems for travelers seeking solitude, authenticity, and adventure.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the top African destinations to visit between June and September, complete with major sights and festival highlights.
1. Tanzania – For the Great Migration & Island Escapes
Why go now:
The dry season (June–September) is the best time to experience Tanzania’s Great Migration in the Serengeti and enjoy the spice-scented shores of Zanzibar.
Top Sites:
Serengeti National Park – Witness river crossings and predator drama.
Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO-listed wildlife sanctuary.
Zanzibar – Pristine beaches and cultural richness in Stone Town.
Festival Highlight: Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) – Held in July, it celebrates African cinema, music, and arts.
2. Kenya – Classic Safaris & Cultural Festivals
Why go now:
June to September is peak safari season in Kenya, with clear skies and abundant wildlife. It’s also the best time to see the Great Migration in the Masai Mara.
Top Sites:
Masai Mara – Wildebeest crossings and lion sightings.
Nairobi – Urban culture, cafés, and giraffe encounters.
Laikipia Plateau – Community-run conservancies with fewer crowds.
Festival Highlight:
Lake Turkana Cultural Festival (August) – A vibrant gathering of 10+ ethnic groups in northern Kenya with music, dance, and fashion.
3. Rwanda – Gorilla Trekking & Mountain Serenity
Why go now:
Dry conditions make this prime time for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Rwanda combines thrilling wildlife with one of the cleanest, safest capitals in Africa.
Top Sites:
Volcanoes National Park – Mountain gorilla and golden monkey tracking.
Lake Kivu – Great for kayaking, coffee tours, and sunset cruises.
Kigali – Modern, artsy, and historically rich.
Cultural Note:
While Rwanda doesn't host major summer festivals, local performances and community cultural tours are common near national parks.
4. Botswana – Water Safaris & Wilderness Luxury
Why go now:
Botswana’s dry season peaks during these months, and the Okavango Delta floods, attracting huge concentrations of wildlife.
Top Sites:
Okavango Delta – Explore by canoe or small boat.
Chobe National Park – Known for elephants and riverfront lodges.
Moremi Game Reserve – Remote and wildlife-rich.
Unique Experience:
Stay in luxury tented camps with open-air showers and private game drives. Many are community-owned or eco-certified.
5. Ghana – History, Heritage & Vibrant City Life
Why go now:
Rainy season ends in June, making July–September great for exploring Ghana’s rich history, creative culture, and beaches.
Top Sites:
Cape Coast & Elmina – Slave castles and historical insight.
Accra – Street food, music, and Afro-urban fashion.
Volta Region – Waterfalls, lush forests, and cultural villages.
Festival Highlight:
Chale Wote Street Art Festival (August) – Accra’s streets transform into an explosion of murals, performance, and fashion.
6. Namibia – Dramatic Landscapes & Stargazing
Why go now:
Namibia’s dry winter means cooler temperatures and crystal-clear skies. Ideal for exploring dunes, desert safaris, and off-grid luxury.
Top Sites:
Sossusvlei – Towering red dunes in the Namib Desert.
Etosha National Park – Superb wildlife viewing around waterholes.
Skeleton Coast – Shipwrecks, seals, and eerie beauty.
Unique Experience:
Desert lodges offer unrivaled stargazing—some even include rooftop beds under the Milky Way.
7. São Tomé and Príncipe – Africa’s Island Secret
Why go now:
These volcanic islands in the Gulf of Guinea are lush, tropical, and almost untouched by mass tourism. June to September brings dry, comfortable weather perfect for hiking and snorkeling.
Top Sites:
Pico Cão Grande – A surreal volcanic spire in dense jungle.
Obô Natural Park – Biodiversity, waterfalls, and birdwatching.
Rolas Island – Stand on the equator with a coconut in hand.
Unique Experience:
Stay in eco-luxury lodges like Sundy Praia or Bom Bom and visit sustainable cocoa plantations on the “Chocolate Island.”
8. Lesotho – The Kingdom in the Sky
Why go now:
This high-altitude country offers cool weather, empty trails, and cultural depth during the southern winter. You’ll find Basotho villages, alpine panoramas, and zero tourist crowds.
Top Sites:
Sehlabathebe National Park – Untamed wilderness and dramatic rock formations.
Maloti Mountains – Horseback treks with local guides.
Sani Pass – A thrilling 4x4 route leading to the “Highest Pub in Africa.”
Unique Experience:
Homestays with Basotho families provide authentic, respectful cultural exchange and insight into mountain life.
✈️ Final Thoughts
Whether you want to see the Big Five in Kenya, hike volcanic peaks in São Tomé, or sip tea in the mountains of Lesotho, Africa from June to September offers a journey like no other. It’s a continent of contrasts—where remote wilderness meets vibrant culture, and ancient tradition meets modern luxury.
Ready to plan your African summer adventure? Leave a comment or reach out—I’m happy to help build a custom itinerary based on your travel style.
