Go low

If the end of the Christmas holiday has left you looking forward to spring and summer for your next chance to get away, you might want to consider planning a trip to East Africa. The April-June period is often overlooked as a time to visit the region because of the wet weather it brings. But those in the know realise that, in many ways, that the low season has several compelling advantages. It’s certainly one of our favourite times to explore both our favourite haunts and unknown reaches of East Africa.

The fact is that the rain which deters most isn’t as forbidding as some would expect. It doesn’t pour continually and is nothing like monsoon rainfall in intensity. Undeniably, it’s wetter during these months, although there’s no guarantee of enjoying drier weather outside the wet season, as last year’s unpredictable seasonal timings attested.

And there are some persuasive upsides. Firstly, the low season means lower prices. Great discounts are available at many hotels and lodges and even on some flights. Even more alluringly for travellers who like their space, it means lower tourist densities. So it’s easier to secure bookings at the best lodges and camps – which may be a telling factor as our accommodation contacts are reporting an especially rapid uptake of places for the high season later this year. And even the most popular game parks and conservancies can be relatively quiet. There’s also less competition for frequently oversubscribed activities such as gorilla trekking.

Baby elephants - one of the attractions
of our imminent Spring Break Safari

Coming in the off-peak months definitely doesn’t mean compromising on the experience. There will still be amazing game viewing, and the plethora of other cultural and adventure pursuits which complete a safari holiday. In fact, with fewer other tourists about, the spring can be the best time to soak up the atmosphere of Africa in serenity and to really appreciate its wilderness with minimal distraction.

And talking of the spring, we’d like to remind you that there is just time to book a place on our Special Spring Break Safari from March 3-10. We’ve compiled an extraordinary selection of wildlife watching, cultural encounters and sublime luxury at some of Kenya’s finest camps and hotels. So if you’re still looking for your dream holiday this spring, grab one of our limited places while you still can. Click here for full details.