We have the option of going to Africa in April 2007, July 2007 or October 2007. We will be travelling to Cape Town, Zimbabwe, Kruger and Zanzibar.

When is the best time go to in terms of weather, viewing and prices?

I recommend October. The weather in the Cape is warming up by then, and it is still the dry season in Kruger and Zimbabwe; therefore, good game viewing.

I don't think you can get the best of all 3--weather, viewing and prices. But you can get 2 of 3 and do ok on the 3rd.

April tends to be rainy. I'd avoid it, but you'd have the best prices.

Maximum wildlife would be Oct, as suggested. It can be quite hot, in the 90s, in Zimbabwe.

I've been to Zimbabwe in July and it was pleasant with great game viewing.

July or October would be my choices.

Hello,

I'd recommend July -- not rainy like April, but not dry and dusty like October, but in the dry season so game-viewing will be good. It will be a bit cooler which will be nice in Zanzibar, which is otherwise really hot and humid.

If you're looking for a nice tropical island to relax after your safari, I'd recommend taking a look at Mozambique -- Zanzibar is in East Africa whereas the majority of your trip is in Southern Africa, and the airfare certainly won't help your budget.

Cheers,
Julian

I would also suggest you take your beach holiday somewhere in the south. Mozambique is a good choice. Otherwise, you have to figure on a day traveling from the south to ZNZ and then back if returning home from South Africa.