Where to go on safari in January

Where to go on safari in January? These destinations score highest this month on weather, wildlife seasons and crowds.

Africa

1. Bwindi Uganda · 23° · some rain

   A shorter dry spell, though rain can fall at any time.

2. Ngorongoro Tanzania · 23° · some rain

   Migration herds reach the Ndutu plains inside the conservation area for calving season.

3. Serengeti Tanzania · 29° · some rain

   Herds are on the southern plains near Ndutu; calving usually peaks in February-March and attracts predators.

4. Volcanoes Rwanda · 25° · some rain

   A less rainy spell, though showers still occur.

5. Lake Nakuru Kenya · 27° · mostly dry

   The park is fenced and compact, so game viewing stays fairly consistent; tracks are easier in the drier months.

6. Murchison Falls Uganda · 31° · mostly dry

   The driest and hottest season, and the best time for game drives north of the Nile.

7. Ol Pejeta Kenya · 25° · mostly dry

   Drier months with good viewing; mornings are cool because of the altitude (around 1,800 m).

8. Queen Elizabeth Uganda · 31° · mostly dry

   The drier periods and the best time for game drives and viewing along the Kazinga Channel.

9. Samburu Kenya · 30° · mostly dry
10. Tsavo East Kenya · 32° · mostly dry

The Gulf

1. Al Areen Bahrain · 20° · mostly dry

   Most comfortable months to visit.

2. Empty Quarter Saudi Arabia · 26° · mostly dry

   Desert expedition season, when seasonal winds ease and temperatures are moderate.

3. Sir Bani Yas Island United Arab Emirates · 24° · mostly dry

   Visit Abu Dhabi names November to March as the best time to visit the island.

4. Al Marmoom United Arab Emirates · 24° · mostly dry

   Winter brings migratory birds to the Al Qudra lakes and comfortable weather for walking and cycling.

5. AlUla Saudi Arabia · 21° · mostly dry

   Nights can drop to about 4–6°C; warm layers are needed for early mornings and evenings.

6. Dubai Desert United Arab Emirates · 24° · mostly dry

   Best period for desert activities, with typical daytime highs of roughly 24–30°C.

7. Edge of the World Saudi Arabia · 21° · mostly dry

   Best months for cliff-top hiking and sunset views.

8. Hatta United Arab Emirates · 24° · mostly dry

   Main season for hiking, mountain biking and kayaking; weekends are busiest.

9. Khor Al Adaid Qatar · 22° · mostly dry

   Visit Qatar names November to April as the best time to visit; this is the winter camping season.

10. Liwa United Arab Emirates · 24° · mostly dry

    The Liwa International Festival runs for about three weeks around Tal Moreeb in winter, bringing peak visitor numbers.

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