South Africa is renowned as a world-class safari destination but did you know that one of the best times to visit is in winter, from May to September? Julia O’Connor, marketing manager at African Pride, takes us on a tour to explore the beauty of visiting at this time.

Great British Life: It can be easier to spot wildlife during South Africa's winter months. Photo credit: African Pride.It can be easier to spot wildlife during South Africa's winter months. Photo credit: African Pride. (Image: Archant)

An abundance of wildlife

During the drier winter months, the bush tends to be less dense, making your wildlife-watching experience easier. You're more likely to see elephants, rhinos and zebras roaming as they seek out food and congregate around rivers and waterholes.

Witnessing such animals in their natural habitat could be one of the best travel experiences you ever have. Imagine waking up to the sound of the African Fish Eagle, often known as 'the voice of Africa', or setting eyes on prides of sleepy lions basking in the sunshine and photographing graceful giraffes at sunset. Julia explains: "Visiting during May to September could set you up for the sighting of a lifetime. South Africa is a unique and vast destination which offers a world of different experiences to excite your senses. The sights, sounds, spirit and sense of adventure you feel in South Africa, once experienced, are never forgotten."

Great British Life: Winter in Cape Town is much cooler, which can make outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking more enjoyable. Photo credit: African Pride.Winter in Cape Town is much cooler, which can make outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking more enjoyable. Photo credit: African Pride. (Image: Archant)

Unique experiences

A visit to Kruger National Park, one of South Africa's most iconic game reserves offers the opportunity to get up close to big cats, such as leopards and lions. Hermanus, just two hours drive from Cape Town, is a spectacular spot for whale watching where you can witness part of their migration from the icy waters of Antarctica to the warmer shores off the South African coast. African Pride can recommend the best way to combine well known experiences with hidden gems, for example, combining a safari in the Kruger with a trip to KwaZulu-Natal, a region rich in history and home to numerous breath-taking landscapes. For the more active, why not try cycling or quad biking among plains game such as the indigenous Bontebok antelope, eland and zebra at the beautiful De Hoop nature reserve.

Great British Life: July to October is a brilliant time for whale watching. Photo credit: Grootbos Nature Reserve.July to October is a brilliant time for whale watching. Photo credit: Grootbos Nature Reserve. (Image: Archant)

Excellent value

Visiting South Africa during May to September offers great value for money.

With African Pride you can include a wine safari within your itinerary, taking time to meet with the winemaker and sample a selection of wines. Julia told us: "Cape Town and the surrounding areas offer many great deals in winter, particularly if culinary experiences and winery visits are to your taste. It's a fabulous opportunity to sample the flavour of South Africa."

Going on an African safari will leave you with unforgettable memories. African Pride can create an itinerary that's tailor-made for you, to make sure you're getting the most out of your very special safari experience.

Find out more on their website, ask your independent travel agent or call African Pride on 01904 619428.