Why Green Season?
Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.
– John Muir
Anytime is a great time to go on safari but why green season?
Anyone who has been to Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe has discovered our delightful paradise. Hwange is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful wild areas in all of Africa that is absolutely teeming with a plethora of animal and bird species. Over 100 wildlife species and in excess of 400 bird species are waiting to make your acquaintance!
Not long ago, as we were coming from the airstrip to camp with a jeep full of new arrivals, one guest marveled at how many species they’ve seen already, “And we only just got here,” she said. “I don’t know how this can get any better!”
But it does get better!
Every day in the bush holds the promise of so many new discoveries. The thrill in waking up to a flock of chattering francolin skittering around outside, sets a tone of excitement for another amazing day.
From the moment you board the jeeps for your morning game drive here’s what you can expect in the green season:
Very few people – the green season is the ‘off season’ for tourists. It’s a time less travelled so safaris are less expensive and not as busy. We love the exclusivity! It’s like having a giant playground all to yourself!
Amazing views – Set against a backdrop of 50 shades of green and ever-changing skies, viewing wildlife in the green season is nothing short of magnificent. Foliage is rain kissed and huge puddles dot the landscape giving everything a freshly scrubbed appearance.
A medley of sounds – At this time of year, many beautiful migratory species return to Hwange for the southern summer. It seems like all 400 bird species that make Hwange home, are flirting for your attention. The birdsong is symphonic and mixed with the resounding chorus of many species of frogs it’s like the opening act of a suspenseful drama. You have no idea of what’s about to unfold!
Cue bundles of joy – Nothing can quite prepare you for the abundance of newborns that are absolutely everywhere! Wobbly legged wildebeest, impala and zebra; squirming, curious little lion cub fur balls, and playful months-old elephants who haven’t yet figured out what their trunk is for, are all frisky bundles of joy on the plains.
Adults only – And where there are babies galore, predators lurk. Slinking hyena; lithe, ever-watching cheetah; elusive leopard and magnificent lion prides are fascinating players in the never-ending circle of life in the bush.
Booms and Bolts – Mesmerizing lightning bolts dance across darkened afternoon skies followed soon by thundering booms. There is nothing quite like an afternoon rain shower in the African wilderness!
So fragrant! – There are many types of flowers in bloom painting whimsical splashes of colour across the landscape. So pretty! There is also a common saying: ‘You haven’t lived until you breathed the air after a rain on African soil’. The evocative smell is known as ‘petrichor.’ Invigorating. After a thundering rainstorm you can look forward to the heavenly, earthy fragrance. It’s a scent like no other.
Miss nothing! – The camps are extraordinary at offering game drives, meals and activities around the weather so one gets to enjoy everything Mother Nature offers.
It’s downright balmy! – Green Season coincides with summer in Africa so you can expect higher temperatures on your morning game drives as opposed to the cooler mornings in dry season. Shorts and T’s are perfect game viewing attire.
Photographer’s Dream – Remember reading earlier about the 50 shades of green? Everything pops against the lush landscape allowing even the most amateur photographer to capture stunning images.
Green Season – My New Favorite Feeling!
Why not look forward to joining us on safari – in 2025!
The only man I envy is the man who has not yet been to Africa, for he has so much to look forward to.
– Richard Mullin
A Tasimba Private Safari. Naturally.