As autumn turns to winter, many start looking ahead to warmer climates and exclusive getaways. With temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere beginning to fall, October serves as the perfect time to plan an escape to the sunny landscapes of Africa. Winter months tend to be quieter in many safari destinations, offering an ideal mix of luxury, seclusion, and value. Yellow Zebra Safaris, renowned for crafting bespoke safari experiences, presents its top picks for winter sun itineraries. From the coastal allure of South Africa to the vast wildernesses of Kenya, Botswana, and Tanzania, these journeys provide a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation for discerning travellers.
Total South Africa: Cape Town, Winelands & Kruger
South Africa remains an evergreen destination for those seeking diverse experiences. Within a compact ten-day itinerary, travellers can explore the bustling city life of Cape Town, the tranquil vineyards of the Winelands, and the untamed wilderness of Kruger National Park. Between November and March, the country enjoys a pleasant climate, with temperatures hovering around 30°C. Rain is sparse, yet the occasional light showers help break the bush’s humidity, making the season ideal for both city exploration and safari adventures. Cape Town thrives during these months, with an array of outdoor events and markets. Meanwhile, the lush Kruger bush offers exceptional opportunities to spot the famed Big Five.
The itinerary, carefully curated by Yellow Zebra, includes a stay at Four Rosmead, the Avondrood Guesthouse, and the renowned Nottens Bush Camp. These properties combine comfort, value, and location, making them ideal for travellers who seek a multi-faceted South African experience. The package includes international flights, internal transfers, and safari activities, priced from £5,419 per person for 9 nights, based on two adults sharing.
Kenya’s Best: Laikipia & Maasai Mara
For families seeking an unforgettable winter escape, Kenya stands out as an excellent choice. The country’s camps are well-suited for travellers of all ages, with family-friendly activities available in abundance. From December to February, Kenya sees fewer visitors compared to the popular Migration season, allowing for a more intimate experience.
Yellow Zebra’s itinerary makes the most of Kenya’s diverse landscapes, from Laikipia in the north to the world-renowned Maasai Mara. Both destinations offer unparalleled wildlife viewing, with Laikipia’s wilderness contrasting beautifully with the open savannahs of the Mara. A highlight of this itinerary is the free flying benefit provided by Governors, which significantly reduces the cost of internal travel between the two regions.
The package includes 6 nights at two prestigious properties: Governors Mugie and Governors Il Moran. The price for this exclusive safari experience ranges from £6,170 to £9,338 per person during the festive period, based on two adults sharing. This offer also covers all meals, drinks, international and internal flights, and scheduled safari activities.
Beach & Bush: Southern Tanzania & Zanzibar
For those torn between a leisurely beach holiday and an adventurous safari, combining Tanzania’s wild Ruaha National Park with Zanzibar’s pristine beaches provides the best of both worlds. Ruaha remains one of Tanzania’s hidden gems, often overshadowed by the famous Serengeti. However, it offers equally thrilling game viewing, featuring the largest concentration of elephants in East Africa and home to an impressive 10% of Africa’s lion population. The park’s exclusivity is reflected in its lower number of lodges, ensuring a more private safari experience.
After several days in the bush, travellers can unwind on the white sands of Zanzibar, enjoying the idyllic beach scenes for which the island is known. Yellow Zebra’s package includes 4 nights at Mwagusi Safari Camp in Ruaha, followed by 4 nights at Breezes Beach Club in Zanzibar, blending adventure with relaxation. This itinerary is offered from £3,809 per person, based on two adults sharing, and includes all flights, transfers, and safari activities.
Ultimate Botswana & Zimbabwe: Luxury for Less
Botswana and Zimbabwe are famed for their high-end lodges and private concessions, offering the height of exclusivity in African safari experiences. This itinerary, crafted by Yellow Zebra, offers unparalleled luxury while incorporating excellent value. By featuring three premium Wilderness properties and taking advantage of complimentary internal flights and a special “6 for 5” promotion, this journey allows travellers to explore some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes at an attractive price, saving over £8,000 per person.
The adventure spans the famous Hwange National Park and the Okavango Delta, paired with the breathtaking Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Highlights include a stay at Little Tubu Tree Camp, which recently underwent an extensive refurbishment, and Little Makololo, known for its unique hide and elephant encounters. Chitabe Lediba, celebrated for its prolific game viewing, rounds out the experience.
This 10-night luxury safari, priced from £10,142 per person based on two adults sharing, includes international flights, internal transfers, and full-board accommodations at some of the most exclusive camps in the region.