What is the best time of year to do an African safari?

Looking to celebrate a 60th birthday with an African safari. Is January/February good for southern Africa, or Kenya? Can you recommend a reputable operator? R. Cusden, Lane Cove North NSW

January and February are typically wet and humid throughout southern Africa, and far from ideal for game viewing in South Africa, Botswana and Tanzania.

Kenya is a better choice at this time of the year, still wet but you can expect to see plenty of wildlife.

If you want to make this a really special experience with not too many budgetary constraints, I'd go with Sydney-based Classic Safari Co, classicsafaricompany.com.au/.

Otherwise, Bench International, benchafrica.com/, is another Sydney-based operator with many years of experience organising safaris in Africa.

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