wlbox

we will be on a tour that visits Hluhluwe Game Reserve during the end of November. What can we expect weather wise? Will this be a good time to spot animals?

then we head up to Kruger for a few days, will it be a good time of the year for wildlife?

This is our first visit to South Africa and we hope to observe and photograph some animals.

PennyinSA

It will be extremely hot at that time of the year so I suggest that you do early morning drives and then return to camp for the heat of the day and then an afternoon drive at around 3.30 or 4. You will definitely need to take precautions for mosquitoes and an air conditioned car is a must for travelling. The bush will reveal what she chooses to and its all about being in the right place at the right time! Both HUP and KNP have sightings boards where sightings are posted and you can also check which roads are productive by going on to the Sanparks forum as well as www.wildlifesightings.co.za. Enjoy!

christabir

wlbox- On a tour, you won't have the option of when to go on game drives. Hopefully they will follow Penney's advice, but not guaranteed. You should see rhinos - more likely white and maybe black - in Hluhluwe. You might see a lot of other creatures, but it's the rhinos that are the attraction. In Kruger, it's the luck of the draw, but you will be amazed no matter what you see. Everything is there, but it's just a matter of luck what you see. It'll be hot, but no matter what - rain, unbearable heat, whatever - go on the game drives. We have had our best game drives in the rain and our vehicle mates chose not to go in bad weather. Good photos are difficult in bad weather, but not a reason to opt out.

canadian_robin

We were in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi in May, so I can't really help you with the weather for November.

If you have time, have your guide take you to the Ilala Weavers (see www.ilala.co.za) which isn't far from H-I. Fantastic traditional handicrafts - the baskets are amazing! Robin

wlbox

What month would be best for visiting these two parks? taking weather and wildlife viewing into consideration.

canadian_robin

We prefer the dry season (June, July, August) when the animals gather at the waterholes and therefore are easier to find. The daytime temps are warm to hot and the nights are warm to cool - perfect weather.

Some people prefer the green/wet season (summer), when the young are born, the vegetation is lush and the animals are thriving - it just depends on your preference.

The shoulder seasons offer the best of both worlds. Robin