Africa
Before a rainshower, the bush goes quiet. A charge builds in the air, oppressive and expectant.
The large cloud banks that have been hovering on the horizon all morning roll over the land, casting the world in bruised hues and announcing, with a rumble of thunder, the start of a spectacle…
Suddenly, the dense heat of the day breaks, and the skies open in a mighty shower. The pelting water lasts all of a few minutes before the skies clear again; a brighter blue than before. The Christmas beetles resume their chorus, birds take to the sky to see which tasty morsels have been washed out of hiding, and everywhere life carries on. For when the rains come, so does the season of plenty.
Below we’ll explore what awaits you on your Green Season safari at Jaci’s Lodges.
The Best Time To Go On Safari
When determining the best time to go on safari, individual preference will, naturally, play a role.
Typically, peak season in the bush falls over the autumn and winter months (March – August), which, in the Madikwe Game Reserve, are mild and dry. During this time, to varying degrees, water sources are scarce and concentrated, drawing in animals across great distances.
For safari-goers, the sparse vegetation and limited water sources make for excellent visibility and increased odds when it comes to game-viewing.
On the other hand, spring heralds the rainy season, which falls roughly between September and February. As the season deepens, days become progressively hot and humid, punctuated by afternoon thunderstorms that are, in themselves, an invigorating event! The abundance of water gives rise to new life, plenty of returning migratory bird species and lush foliage. This is what we call the Green Season.
While often overlooked by prospective guests in favour of the drier winter months, Green Season gives rise to some of the most rewarding experiences the African bush has to offer.
6 Reasons To Visit Jaci’s Lodges In Green Season
Reason #1
A BIRDER'S PARADISE
Green Season is the ideal time for avid birders to visit the Madikwe Game Reserve. As migratory birds return, the number of species on the reserve rises, turning it into a true haven for birdwatchers.
At this time of year, many species also don striking plumage as part of their mating displays, offering guests some spectacular photographic opportunities.
From European bee-eaters to elegant herons and regal Fish eagles, Green Season showcases Madikwe’s birdlife at its best!
Click here to download a checklist of Madikwe Game Reserve’s bird species.
Reason #2
BABY ANIMALS
With plenty of nourishment available during Green Season, animals take full advantage of this time to expand their families, leading to a something of a ‘baby boom’.
Impala, wildebeest, and zebra typically see an influx of young during this time of year, while other animals, like elephants and lions, give birth year-round.
Whether it’s a tiny antelope or a playful lion cub, baby animals bring a special kind of magic to a safari experience and offer guests the opportunity to see new life in all its vulnerable beauty.
Reason #3
MALARIA-FREE AREA
Madikwe Game Reserve is situated in a malaria-free area, making it a perfect destination for worry-free safaris – even in the heart of Green Season.
Bonus: You won’t need to take any preventative medications that may have side effects that will detract from the overall enjoyment of the experience.
Reason #4
OFF-PEAK TOURIST NUMBERS
For those seeking a peaceful, more personal safari, the Green Season is perfect. With fewer guests in the reserve, you’ll frequently have waterholes, viewing points, and wildlife encounters all to yourself. There’s no crowd to contend with—just you, your guide, and the animals.
Reason #5
STARGAZING
While summer days in the bush are characterised by afternoon thunder showers, the evenings and nights are perfect for stargazing – especially if you’re staying in one of our Starbed Suites.
The lack of light pollution in Madikwe Game Reserve means that you will witness the heavens as you’ve possibly never seen them before, with the Milky Way stretching across the sky in a dense, cloudy band of light – revealing countless stars in an intricate pattern that is difficult to fathom.
Reason #6
THE RAINS DOWN IN AFRICA
When Toto sang about ‘the rains down in Africa,’ he wasn’t kidding.
Our thunderstorms are epic spectacles that invigorate the bushveld and form an intrinsic part of your Green Season safari adventure. They rarely last long and don’t do anything to detract from the balmy heat of the day. You’ll still have plenty of time (and reason) to lounge poolside on one of our viewing decks or enjoy the amenities of your luxury suite.
These downpours are a far cry from the drizzly weather you might be imagining. To many, witnessing a mighty thunderstorm can be a truly profound and moving experience that makes them feel even closer to nature.
What Else?
If you’re concerned that Green Season will decrease the odds of you seeing the animals that Madikwe Game Reserve is famous for, don’t be.
Our experienced guides know this reserve inside and out and have dedicated their lives to understanding and getting to know the animals that call it home. With a bit of patience, and some skilled tracking, there is no reason why you shouldn’t see all the animals on your list – and a few more you might not even have bargained on!
Discover more here.
Stay With Us
Jaci’s Lodges offers an authentic, upscale safari experience where relaxation and adventure meet in one of South Africa’s most celebrated Big Five game reserves.
If you’re interested in joining us, browse our luxury accommodation options here.
Bookings can be made by getting in touch with our friendly reservations team at reservations@jacislodges.co.za or by using our seamless online booking platform to secure your own dates.
We look forward to sharing the magic of the Green Season with you!
