October

Namibia

In October, Namibia experiences its hottest and driest conditions of the year. Most of the country feels like a desert, with high daytime temperatures that are surprisingly bearable due to low humidity. The wildlife is vibrant, with great herds congregating around diminishing water sources, creating a spectacular viewing experience. Although dust and haziness can pose challenges for photographers, the game experience during this month is unparalleled. Expect mostly dry conditions, with the landscape taking on a brown hue as vegetation fades and more acacias bloom.

 

Madagascar

In Madagascar, October brings warm, dry weather, creating lovely holiday conditions both on the coast and in national parks. Although the beach areas are less crowded, it’s the busiest month for wildlife viewing, so advanced bookings are recommended for wildlife-focused stays. Baby lemurs are abundant during this time, with young ones being tightly held by their mothers or taking their first tentative steps. The weather is warm but not too hot, with very little rain, although the south may feel cooler, so layering is advisable. The blooming jacarandas add splashes of purple to the landscape. The clear ocean waters provide excellent visibility for snorkeling and swimming, while humpback whales have left the area by this time. Birdlife remains active, continuing their breeding activities.

Botswana

October offers excellent game viewing opportunities in Botswana as grasses thin and animals gather around permanent water sources. Elephant populations are particularly impressive in the Chobe and Linyanti regions. It’s an ideal time for walking and driving safaris, though nights can be quite cold, making layers essential. As peak season approaches, expect higher prices and larger crowds, so advanced bookings are crucial. The subtropical climate brings very warm days, moderate nights, and little rainfall, with thinned-out bush facilitating game viewing. Fishing is also great in the Okavango Delta, where waters are at their warmest, and birdwatchers will enjoy a wide variety of species.

South Africa

Finding the perfect time to combine a family adventure in a dry Kruger National Park with a warm sunny Cape Town can be hard, however, if you’re traveling in October, you’ve hit the jackpot! In October, Cape Town bursts into spring, offering sunshine and clear blue skies—ideal for activities both water based and on the mountain, and exploring the vinyards. Its whale season too so you can spot them in Cape Town and even closer from Hermanus. Game viewing in Kruger, Madikwe and other malaria free parks in the Eastern Cape is excellent this time of year, with most animals gathering around the waterholes in the dry bush, making wildlife-watching an unforgettable experience for the family.

 

Seychelles

October is one of the warmest months to visit the Seychelles, marking the end of the southeast trade winds. Expect hot temperatures, sunny skies, and minimal rainfall. However, the absence of a breeze can make conditions feel quite warm for some travelers. This month boasts excellent water visibility, making it ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. The granitic islands are home to 200 indigenous flowering plant species, with 70 endemic varieties, including lowland forests, coastal fringes, mangroves, and freshwater wetlands. Although not renowned for game viewing, the delicate ecosystem supports diverse wildlife, including giant tortoises and one of the largest seabird colonies in the world. October also sees hawksbill turtles beginning to lay their eggs, adding an exciting element to coastal visits.

Mauritius

As summer arrives in October, the winds die down, rainfall remains minimal, and temperatures rise to the mid to high 20s°C. Many locals consider October their favorite month, and it’s a popular time to travel, particularly around the UK’s half-term holidays, necessitating early bookings. The Hindu festival of Diwali often falls in October, filling the atmosphere with celebration and beautiful displays of twinkling lights. This month is statistically the driest, offering plenty of sunshine and rising sea temperatures. The stunning landscapes of unspoilt rainforest, rolling hills, deep valleys, and spectacular waterfalls showcase Mauritius’ unparalleled flora. Big cat encounters at Casela Nature Parks are available year-round, alongside a vibrant marine life drawn to the warm ocean temperatures, making October a fantastic time for diving and fishing. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the arrival of migratory species from Europe, joining the impressive array of domestic birds.