Safaris in January

January often brings warm, relatively dry weather to Kenya. Wildlife viewing remains strong in the Maasai Mara, Amboseli and other major reserves, while clear mornings can improve views of Kilimanjaro. It is popular, so the best family rooms and smaller camps should be reserved early.

We would choose between the Maasai Mara, its private conservancies, Laikipia and Amboseli according to the month's rainfall, wildlife movement and the level of exclusivity you want. Camp location matters as much as the country itself, particularly when migration timing or clear Kilimanjaro views are priorities.

January is usually one of Uganda's drier windows. Gorilla trekking is still a rainforest experience and showers are always possible, but trails can be easier than during the long rains. Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls also combine well with a forest-focused itinerary.

Gorilla permits and the forest sector should be confirmed before the rest of the route. We also consider trail conditions, transfer times and whether chimpanzee trekking or a savannah safari in Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls is worth adding, rather than treating Uganda as a single-day gorilla stop.

Botswana is in its green season, with summer rain, lush vegetation and excellent birding. Wildlife is more dispersed than in the dry season, but the landscapes are vivid and prices can be lower. The Makgadikgadi region can be especially interesting as zebra move into the pans.

The Okavango is not one uniform destination. We pair water-focused and land-focused camps according to flood levels, then decide whether Chobe, Linyanti or the Makgadikgadi adds a genuinely different experience. In transitional months, choosing the right concession is more important than simply booking the Delta.