The Best Safaris in October

If you’re wondering which is the best safari in October, Uganda, and Kenya are the top locations we recommend for this time of year. Below, we’ll list some of the key parks and forests to visit in both countries to help you plan your upcoming safari experience:

Some of the best October safaris in Uganda include:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is a globally significant destination renowned for its endangered mountain gorillas. The park’s gorilla trekking experiences offer an unparalleled opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat, which you can experience with our 3-day or 4-day gorilla-trekking holiday.

The forest is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting exceptional biodiversity. In October, Bwindi National Forest showcases its vibrant greenery and thriving ecosystem, thanks to the rains in the preceding months having nourished the landscape.

While here, be sure to take time to mingle with the local communities, particularly the Batwa Pygmies, to learn more about the region’s cultural heritage.

Kibale Forest National Park is renowned for its exceptional primate populations. It’s home to an impressive 13 primate species (including the iconic chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys), which you can observe up close during game drives. While here, you may also spot a variety of mammals, such as elephants, buffaloes, duikers, and bushbucks.

The park also boasts diverse ecosystems that host a wide range of flora and fauna. The lush tropical rainforest is a sanctuary for bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers – especially during October, with many migratory bird species having started to arrive in the park.

With so much to see and do in Kibale Forest National Park, you could potentially book a custom safari that’s tailored to your exact requirements.

Murchison Falls National Park is known for its namesake, the magnificent Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge, creating a breathtaking cascade of water. The park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from savannah plains to riverine forests, provide a captivating backdrop for exploration.

October is a great month for wildlife sightings in Murchison Falls National Park. The vegetation is typically less dense during this time, making it easier to spot animals as they gather around the water sources. Look out for elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and an array of antelope species.

Head off on thrilling game drives or boat safaris along the Nile to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. During October, water levels are usually good so you’ll have a much smoother ride and the opportunity for optimal viewing. Marvel at herds of elephants grazing along the riverbanks spot elusive leopards lounging in the trees, and the remarkable Nile crocodiles sunning themselves on the river’s edge.

Ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure? Discover the untamed beauty of Murchison National Park and Kidepo on our exhilarating 10-day guided trip.

Situated in the western part of Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, ranging from lush forests to sparkling crater lakes and meandering rivers. As you navigate the park’s expansive savannahs, be prepared to spot majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, herds of buffalo, and the elusive leopards roaming freely in their natural habitat. You may also discover a variety of antelope species, including Uganda kob and topi.

One of the park’s major highlights is the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward. Take a boat safari along the channel and you’ll be treated to the incredible sight of hippos and crocodiles wallowing in the water and colorful birds darting through the skies. The park is also known for its population of tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, which are famous for their habit of lounging high up in the branches of fig trees.

A highlight we recommend in Kenya is the Masai Mara National Reserve…

Located in southwestern Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve is a vast and untamed wilderness. It is named after the Maasai people – a proud and traditional community that has coexisted harmoniously with wildlife for centuries. If you have always dreamed of seeing the Big Five, booking a 4-day trip here in October should be on your bucket list. This is the key month where you’ll spot the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo roaming along the plains in full view.

What makes the Masai Mara truly exceptional is the annual Great Migration during this time of year. Every year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores undertake a treacherous journey from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in search of greener pastures. Witnessing this natural spectacle is a once-in-a-lifetime experience as the vast herds cross crocodile-infested rivers and brave predators in their quest for survival.

The weather in Africa during October can vary hugely depending on the specific region and country you plan to visit.

In East Africa, (Kenya and Tanzania), October marks the end of the dry season and the transition to the short rainy season. The weather is generally warm with daytime temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F). However, the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional showers or thunderstorms, especially towards the end of the month.

In Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe) October falls during the spring season. The weather is typically pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). It’s considered the transitional period from the dry winter to the wet summer season so, you may encounter sporadic rainfall from time to time.

In Central Africa (Rwanda and Uganda) October is characterized by a mix of dry and wet weather. It can be a good time for gorilla trekking, as rainfall isn’t as heavy compared to other months. Temperatures are generally moderate, ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F).