uMkhuze Game Reserve Best Time To Visit

By Philip Briggs
Philip is author of the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Excellent Good Fair Poor

The drier months of May to September makes for better wildlife viewing in uMkhuze. At this time, the wildlife shelters overlooking the waterholes are a great place from which to observe the constant stream of animals coming to drink. Game drives also tend to be more productive, since the bush has thinned and animals are easier to spot.

Best Time May to September (Dry season)

High Season None (The park only gets busy during South African school holidays)

Low Season None (The park never gets busy outside of school holidays)

Best Weather April-May and September-October (Mild weather and little rain)

Worst Weather December to February (Hot and humid)

May to September Dry Season – Winter

The vegetation recedes and animals gather at the waterholes
Almost no chance of rain and skies are clear and blue
Warm clothing is essential for early morning and evening games drives
The bush is dry

October to April Wet Season – Summer

Lovely scenery and bountiful landscapes
You may spot newborn animals
Migratory birds have arrived
Wildlife viewing is not as good as during the Dry season
It is hot and humidity is high

Best Time To Go by Major Park