Safari in August

Imagine a blazing red African sun rising up over the horizon, over giraffes roaming cracked savannahs, lions scouring their kingdom, and elephants filling their trunks, you could very well be conjuring up something straight out of The Lion King or simply a spitting image of Tanzania.

Why in August?
August creates your quintessential African safari with arid grounds, sparse acacia trees and the Big Five scanning for water remnants. Days are warm and nights are cool, so remember to bring a jumper for those early morning game drives and with no rainfall, animals are easy to spot. Hakuna Matata! (It means no worries).

What to see?
The best thing about this month is whichever game reserve you travel to, wildlife is abundant. Great elephant herds roam the Tarangire plains, lions and wild dogs are securing their place on the food chain in Selous and the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra play a game of survival as they attempt to cross the Mara River.

Pro tip:
There's no better way to end an action-packed safari than to cool off in the waters of Zanzibar. With crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, snorkelling and diving are a must-do this month. Clink your glasses and reminisce of your amazing African adventure!

Whenever you ask someone about Rwanda, you'll find that most people identify this luscious country with its tragic history or its hairy inhabitants. Truth is there is so much more to this beautiful country. From its welcoming locals to the rich tea plantations, Rwanda is full of colour and culture.

Why in August?
With green rolling hills, succulent jungles, striking mountains and quaint tribal villages, Rwanda's biodiversity is thriving this month. The warm August days and dry grounds, create optimal trekking conditions and the perfect climate for premium wildlife viewing opportunities.

What to see?
Undoubtedly, a true highlight of Rwanda is the resident mountain gorillas. Gazing into the eyes of a creature so similar to you is a surreal experience. Combine your gorilla trek with a visit to Akagera National Park to witness high concentrations of wildlife scanning the grasslands for water sources.

Pro tip:
As August is the best time of year for gorilla trekking, it is recommended that you book in advance. Not only your tour, but your gorilla permit too, as these are limited and can sell out months in advance. We wouldn't want you missing out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Livin' La Vida Loca! The land known for its colour, culture and vibrant festivals, Brazil is a fun-loving country full of welcoming locals and delicious delicacies. Blanketed in the world's largest jungle and outlined in white sandy beaches, this animated country has something for everyone.

Why in August?
As an equatorial country, August averages a sweet 25°C (77°F) creating dry conditions for trekking through the Amazon and Pantanal. This low season brings attractive rates and fewer crowds and with year-round festivals, the Bumba Meu Boi parade gives travellers this month insight into Brazil's warm and vivid culture.

What to see?
As one of the greatest biodiverse habitats in the world, Brazil's unspoilt landscape is home to various flora and fauna. From toucans, macaws and parrots to sloths, pumas and jaguars, the rich Amazonian rainforest and Pantanal grasslands are wildlife havens. The marine life is also supreme with otters swimming and pink river dolphins dancing.

Pro tip:
When thinking of a safari in Brazil, the Amazon rainforest immediately comes to mind. However, the wildlife of the Pantanal should not be forgotten. With extraordinary biodiversity and bountiful wildlife, this unique ecosystem is a hidden gem. Spot alligators, anacondas, racoons, jaguars and pumas and fill your camera roll with unforgettable encounters!