Tembe Elephant Park Best Time To Visit

By Philip Briggs
Philip is author of ‘The Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa’.

Excellent Good Fair Poor

Wildlife viewing is best during the drier winter months of May to September. Foliage is abundant within the park, but as conditions become drier, it recedes, and animals cluster on the banks of available water sources. The hide located at the waterhole is particularly busy with animal activity at this time. Elephants reliably come to drink and bath in the heat of the day, between 11am and 3pm.

Best Time May to September (Dry season)

High Season October to March (The camp can get a bit busy especially during school holidays)

Low Season April to September (Excellent time for wildlife viewing)

Best Weather April to May and September to October (Mild weather and little rain)

Worst Weather December to February (Hot and humid)

May to September Dry Season – Winter

Wildlife viewing is at its best as foliage recedes and animals cluster at water sources
Though never very busy, it should be quieter during the low season
Rain is unusual, and skies are bright and sunny
Evening and morning game drives in open vehicles may get cold
There is a lot of dust in the air

October to April Wet Season – Summer

Abundant greenery and lovely landscapes
Animals are being born
Birding is at its best, and the migratory birds are present
It is not prime time for animal viewing – the Dry season is better
Heat and humidity is high

Best Time To Go by Major Park