Introduction:
March is a captivating time to explore East Africa, as the region offers a delightful mix of stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a myriad of cultural experiences. During this month, the weather varies across different countries, providing unique opportunities for tourists to indulge in diverse activities. From game drives in the national parks to exploring local art and cuisine, East Africa offers an unforgettable journey. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the weather conditions, best parks, activities, shopping options, cultural attractions, and delicious local foods to try in each of the East African countries: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia.
Kenya:
Weather in March:
In Kenya, March falls within the wet season, making it a good time for wildlife viewing as the lush landscapes attract animals to watering holes. The temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, with the coastal regions experiencing higher humidity levels.
Best Parks and Activities:
Masai Mara National Reserve: Witness the Great Migration, as thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the plains in search of greener pastures.
Amboseli National Park: Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and spot large elephant herds.
Nairobi National Park: Experience a unique safari within the city's outskirts and spot rhinos, lions, and giraffes.
Diani Beach: Relax on the pristine beaches along the Indian Ocean coast.
Shopping and Cultural Attractions:
Kazuri Beads: Visit the Kazuri Beads workshop in Nairobi to purchase handcrafted ceramic beads and pottery made by local women.
Maasai Market: Explore Nairobi's Maasai Market for a wide array of traditional Maasai crafts, artifacts, and souvenirs.
Karen Blixen Museum: Discover the life and works of the famous Danish author at her former residence in Nairobi.
Food Places to Visit:
Carnivore Restaurant: Savor a variety of grilled meats, including ostrich and crocodile, in Nairobi's iconic Carnivore Restaurant.
Interesting Foods:
Nyama Choma: Experience the local tradition of Nyama Choma (barbecued meat) at various restaurants across the country.
Low Season/High Season:
March is considered a shoulder season in Kenya, with fewer tourists compared to the peak dry season. The wet conditions make it a less crowded and more affordable time to visit.
Fauna and Flora:
During March, Kenya's wildlife flourishes in the green savannahs, and birdwatching enthusiasts can spot a variety of migratory and resident bird species.
Visitors' Countries of Origin:
Kenya receives a significant number of visitors from Europe, especially the United Kingdom and Germany, along with tourists from the United States and China.
Tanzania:
Weather in March:
March is the peak of Tanzania's wet season, characterized by frequent afternoon showers. The temperatures range from 22°C to 31°C, making it pleasantly warm.
Best Parks and Activities:
Serengeti National Park: Witness the Great Migration's calving season, a remarkable spectacle of wildebeest giving birth to their young.
Ngorongoro Crater: Explore the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, teeming with diverse wildlife.
Zanzibar Archipelago: Enjoy pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and historical Stone Town on the island of Zanzibar.
Shopping and Cultural Attractions:
Tinga Tinga Art: Discover vibrant Tanzanian art at the Tinga Tinga Cooperative Society in Dar es Salaam.
Mwenge Carvers Market: Visit this market in Dar es Salaam to buy intricate wood carvings and sculptures.
Food Places to Visit:
Forodhani Night Market: Taste a variety of seafood dishes and Zanzibar specialties in Stone Town's famous night market.
Low Season/High Season:
March is considered a low season in Tanzania due to the rains, resulting in fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates.
Fauna and Flora:
The wet season attracts an abundance of wildlife to the Serengeti and other parks, and birdwatchers can spot migratory bird species.
Visitors' Countries of Origin:
Tanzania receives numerous visitors from Europe, particularly Italy and the United Kingdom. Tourists from the United States and neighboring African countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda also contribute to the tourist numbers.
Uganda:
Weather in March:
Uganda experiences two rainy seasons, and March falls within the first rainy season. The temperatures range from 17°C to 28°C, offering a pleasant climate.
Best Parks and Activities:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Embark on a thrilling gorilla trekking adventure to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: Enjoy game drives and boat cruises to spot diverse wildlife, including tree-climbing lions and hippos.
Murchison Falls National Park: Witness the powerful Murchison Falls and enjoy a variety of safaris.
Shopping and Cultural Attractions:
Owino Market: Explore Uganda's largest market in Kampala to purchase colorful fabrics, crafts, and fresh produce.
Ndere Cultural Centre: Attend vibrant dance performances and cultural shows that showcase Uganda's diverse ethnic groups.
Food To Try and Places to Visit:
Rolex Stalls: Try the popular Ugandan street food "Rolex," a rolled chapati filled with eggs and vegetables.
Luwombo: Taste the traditional Ugandan dish prepared with meat, vegetables, and groundnuts, steamed in banana leaves.
Low Season/High Season:
March is part of Uganda's low season, with fewer tourists due to the rains. However, it is still a good time for gorilla trekking as the forest is less crowded.
Fauna and Flora:
The wet season allows tourists to witness the lush landscapes of Uganda, and birdwatchers can spot various bird species, including migratory ones.
Visitors' Countries of Origin:
Uganda's main source of visitors comes from neighboring African countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, tourists from Europe, especially the United Kingdom and Germany, contribute to the numbers.
Rwanda:
Weather in March:
Rwanda has two dry seasons and two wet seasons. March falls within the long dry season, offering warm temperatures ranging from 16°C to 30°C.
Best Parks and Activities:
Volcanoes National Park: Embark on an awe-inspiring gorilla trekking expedition in the misty highlands of Rwanda.
Akagera National Park: Experience a unique savannah safari and spot the "Big Five" and various bird species.
Shopping and Cultural Attractions:
Kimironko Market: Explore Kigali's largest market for local crafts, fabrics, and fresh produce.
Inema Arts Center: Discover contemporary Rwandan art and attend art exhibitions at this cultural hub in Kigali.
Food to Try:
Brochettes: Try the popular Rwandan meat skewers, often made with goat, beef, or fish, seasoned with local spices.
Isombe: Taste the traditional Rwandan dish made with cassava leaves, palm oil, and meat or fish.
Low Season/High Season:
March is considered a high season in Rwanda, especially for gorilla trekking, due to the dry weather and better accessibility to the parks.
Fauna and Flora:
The dry season makes wildlife viewing easier, and birdwatchers can spot various bird species in Rwanda's national parks.
Visitors' Countries of Origin:
Rwanda receives a significant number of visitors from the United States, the United Kingdom, and neighboring countries like Uganda and Kenya.
Ethiopia:
Weather in March:
Ethiopia's weather in March varies depending on the region. Generally, it is a dry month, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C in the highlands.
Best Parks and Activities:
Simien Mountains National Park: Hike through breathtaking landscapes and spot rare wildlife, including the Ethiopian wolf and Gelada baboon.
Lalibela: Explore the ancient rock-hewn churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in the town of Lalibela.
Shopping and Cultural Attractions:
Merkato: Visit Africa's largest open-air market in Addis Ababa to shop for traditional crafts, coffee, and spices.
National Museum of Ethiopia: Discover ancient artifacts, including the famous hominid fossil "Lucy," at the museum in Addis Ababa.
Foods and Things To Try:
Injera: Taste Ethiopia's staple food, a spongy sourdough flatbread served with various meat and vegetable stews.
Coffee Ceremony: Experience the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, an important part of the country's culture.
Low Season/High Season:
March is considered a low season for tourism in Ethiopia, as it comes after the peak tourist season. The weather is still favorable for exploring the country.
Fauna and Flora:
March offers a beautiful time to explore the lush landscapes of Ethiopia, with opportunities to spot rare wildlife and endemic bird species.
Visitors' Countries of Origin:
Ethiopia receives visitors from various countries, with a significant number coming from the United States and European nations like Germany and France.
Conclusion:
March is an exciting time to visit East Africa, offering a wide range of experiences across the region's diverse landscapes and cultures. Each country has its unique attractions, from thrilling safaris and gorilla trekking to exploring local art, cuisine, and traditional markets. Whether it's Kenya's Great Migration, Tanzania's Serengeti, Uganda's gorillas, Rwanda's cultural charm, or Ethiopia's historical wonders, East Africa beckons with open arms to all adventurous travelers. So, pack your bags, embrace the beauty of the continent, and create unforgettable memories in East Africa this March.