Can you believe we’re halfway through the year already? With that in mind, it’s likely you’re fielding early enquiries for end-of-year safaris — including festive season and early 2026 travel. For Southern Africa, that means entering the Green Season, which typically runs from November through March.

This is a spectacular, rewarding time to travel — but it’s not for everyone, and success lies in managing expectations from the start.

🌧️ Weather: Dramatic, Lush and Sometimes Unpredictable

The Green Season marks the arrival of summer rains, breaking the long dry spell that peaks in October. Expect hot, humid days with afternoon thunderstorms — not constant drizzle, but powerful, dramatic skies and bursts of rain.

• Daily highs can exceed 35°C, so it's essential to choose lodges with proper ventilation (at minimum, a fan) and a swimming pool.

• Camping or basic mobile safaris are not advisable — unless exceptionally well-prepared or with a very hardy client.

• Be upfront with guests: activities may be impacted by rain. This is not a season for rigid itineraries.

👀 Wildlife Sightings: Lush, Alive and Sometimes Subtle

“Green” refers to the lush vegetation — not only is it photogenic (think: elephants under storm clouds), but it brings the bush to life.

• Birding is exceptional, with migratory species in full display.

• Wildlife is more dispersed, meaning this is a time for quality over quantity. It’s about patient, meaningful sightings, not ticking off the Big Five.

• Predator sightings may be trickier due to thicker bush, but newborns and animal interactions make up for it.

🌊 Okavango Delta: Be Honest About Water Levels

Here’s the catch many forget: Green Season = Low Flood in the Okavango Delta.

The famous floodplains you see in brochures? That’s typically June–August. From November to March, water levels are at their lowest, especially in the southern Delta.

To ensure a proper Delta experience:

• Choose camps in permanent water areas or the northern Delta.

• We recommend:
  Setari, Karangoma, Duke’s, Mbamba, North Island, Xugana, and Shinde, where water levels remain higher and the mokoro/boating activities are still feasible.

Set clear expectations so clients aren’t disappointed by the lack of "floodplain" visuals they’ve seen online.

💰 Rates & Offers: Exceptional Value in Shoulder Season

This is arguably the best time of year for value-conscious travellers:

• Stay 3 / Pay 2 deals are widely available.

• Fewer crowds mean a more intimate experience.

• Green Season specials make higher-end camps more accessible for guests who might otherwise have ruled them out.

Check our Agent Zone for up-to-date special offers and trade rates.

✅ Bottom Line: The Right Guests, the Right Prep

Green Season safaris can be truly magical — but they require the right client and the right framing. It’s not about selling around the rain, but selling the magic because of it.

If your client is open-minded, values exclusivity, and can appreciate beauty beyond big-game ticking, this might be the perfect time for them to visit.

As always, we’re here to help you plan smart, honest itineraries that deliver beyond expectations.