As the seasons turn, each month brings its own charm and set of spectacular natural events. We're approaching the colder months in the Southern Hemisphere, yet the bush remains magical throughout. Here's what you can anticipate and plan your visit around:

APRIL - AUTUMN'S GENTLE ARRIVAL

The lush summer greens gently fade as deciduous trees and shrubs start to shed their foliage. Impala rutting season begins, marked by impressive displays of male dominance, agility and strength. Elephants savour the last marula fruits, while nyala and kudu find sustenance in leafy thickets and shrubs such as the magic guarri.

Shorter days make way for warm, comfortable evenings, ideal for gathering around the fire with a glass of wine sourced from boutique South African vineyards. The southern night skies are crisp and clear, showcasing constellations like the iconic Southern Cross and Orion.

MAY - A CRISP TRANSITION TO WINTER

Noticeable changes are present, such as the vegetation thinning and the landscape gradually drying out. Trees like Knobthorns and Bushwillow drop their leaves, carpeting the ground. Animals congregate around shrinking waterholes, creating dramatic wildlife scenes - especially at dawn and dusk - and predators become more active around these crucial water sources.

We say farewell, for now, to our migratory bird species like the European roller and Woodland kingfisher, as they take on long journeys up north, travelling as far as Europe and Asia. Clear autumn evening skies offer views of Jupiter and Saturn rising. 

JUNE - WINTER'S EMBRACE

Even in winter's grip, our days remain comfortably warm, contrasted by the chilly nights. This is a very good time for game viewing, as animals venture into the open in search of precious water. Buffalo and elephants gather around pans and waterholes, and their social interactions provide spectacular views. Lions bask openly in the mild winter sun, making this one of the best times for big cat sightings.

The landscape features hardy plant life, such as aloes, whose striking red-orange flowers become essential feeding grounds for sunbirds and other nectar-feeders. Cooler evenings and clear skies reveal dazzling celestial displays, including the luminous Milky Way. 

JULY - THE HEIGHT OF WINTER

July delivers exceptional safari conditions with the bushveld at its driest. Vegetation such as Tamboti trees drop their last leaves, creating an open stage for unforgettable wildlife viewing. Smaller herds become frequent sightings as predators thrive during this period, taking advantage of reduced cover for prey. Watch for elusive leopards perched in leafless trees, surveying the horizon for their next meal. Birdlife continues to delight, with resident species like Bateleurs soaring gracefully above the open bush. Cold nights reveal the brightest constellations, and you can watch this sipping a liqueur while you stare at Scorpio and Sagittarius in the night sky.

AUGUST - A PRELUDE TO SPRING

As August unfolds, the subtle promise of spring fills the air. Days gradually become warmer while nights retain a cool freshness. Sparse vegetation makes animal sightings more predictable as wildlife clusters around permanent water sources. Early blooms such as Wild jasmine and Knobthorn acacias begin appearing, heralding the arrival of spring.

Giraffes browse tender shoots from early blooming plants, while birds such as weavers begin intricate nest-building rituals in anticipation of the breeding season. The winds start to shift, bringing subtle promises of rain, and celestial views remain spectacular. Venus shines brilliantly in the western sky during this time.

Nature takes these months to rest and renew, readying itself for new beginnings. Perhaps it’s your turn as well.