Safari in Otago & Southland

Compare Parks in Otago & Southland

Weather & Climate in Otago & Southland

The warmest temperatures in Otago & Southland occur in January, averaging 11.5°C. The coolest conditions are in July at 0.9°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 137.2mm. Average humidity: 85.2%.

Monthly Temperatures

• January: 11.5°C (rainfall: 143.9mm)
• February: 11.1°C (rainfall: 161.2mm)
• March: 8.9°C (rainfall: 140.1mm)
• April: 6.9°C (rainfall: 148.7mm)
• May: 4.7°C (rainfall: 152.9mm)
• June: 2.3°C (rainfall: 137.2mm)
• July: 0.9°C (rainfall: 169.7mm)
• August: 1.8°C (rainfall: 164.4mm)
• September: 2.7°C (rainfall: 247.6mm)
• October: 5.1°C (rainfall: 206.3mm)
• November: 7.9°C (rainfall: 162.7mm)
• December: 9.9°C (rainfall: 181.9mm)

Best Time to Visit Otago & Southland

The best months to visit Otago & Southland are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

• January: Good, temperature 11.5°C, rainfall 143.9mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 78.8%
• February: Poor, temperature 11.1°C, rainfall 161.2mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 79.9%
• March: Poor, temperature 8.9°C, rainfall 140.1mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 82.2%
• April: Poor, temperature 6.9°C, rainfall 148.7mm, sunshine 7.6 hrs, humidity 83.6%
• May: Poor, temperature 4.7°C, rainfall 152.9mm, sunshine 6 hrs, humidity 84.4%
• June: Poor, temperature 2.3°C, rainfall 137.2mm, sunshine 5.3 hrs, humidity 85.2%
• July: Poor, temperature 0.9°C, rainfall 169.7mm, sunshine 5.1 hrs, humidity 86.9%
• August: Poor, temperature 1.8°C, rainfall 164.4mm, sunshine 6.6 hrs, humidity 86.4%
• September: Poor, temperature 2.7°C, rainfall 247.6mm, sunshine 7.8 hrs, humidity 84.6%
• October: Poor, temperature 5.1°C, rainfall 206.3mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 83.3%
• November: Poor, temperature 7.9°C, rainfall 162.7mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 80.6%
• December: Poor, temperature 9.9°C, rainfall 181.9mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 81.1%

Recommended Packing List for Otago & Southland

Based on average temperature of 6.1°C, typical conditions, humidity 83%.

• Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 6°C require warm insulation
• Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
• Binoculars - essential for every game drive
• Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
• Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
• Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
• Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
• First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
• Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
• Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Wildlife in Otago & Southland

Home to 39 recorded species including 22 waterbirds, 7 iconic birds, 3 marine & freshwater, 3 tropical birds, 3 birds of prey, 1 big herbivores.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for New Zealand

Travel advisory for New Zealand

Otago & Southland FAQs

What is the best time of year to experience the diverse landscapes and unique wildlife of Otago & Southland?

The ideal time to visit is during New Zealand's summer (December to February) for warm weather perfect for hiking in Fiordland and exploring Central Otago's goldfields. For prime wildlife viewing, especially the rare yellow-eyed penguins in the Catlins, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

What unique wildlife encounters can I expect on a safari through New Zealand's Otago & Southland region?

Otago & Southland offers incredible marine wildlife, particularly along the Catlins coast where you can spot yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, and sea lions at locations like Nugget Point and Curio Bay. In Fiordland, look out for bottlenose dolphins, kea (mountain parrots), and various seabirds during cruises or kayaking excursions.

Beyond scenic drives, what specific adventure and cultural activities are available in Otago & Southland?

This region is rich in 'southern adventures,' including multi-day hikes like the Milford Track, kayaking in Milford or Doubtful Sound, and exploring Central Otago's historic gold mining towns and world-class wineries. You can also cycle parts of the Otago Central Rail Trail or discover stunning waterfalls and ancient forests in the Catlins.

What should I know about navigating the varied terrain and travel logistics for a trip through Otago & Southland?

The region features diverse terrain, from winding mountain roads in Fiordland to coastal routes and open plains in Central Otago, requiring careful driving. It's advisable to book popular activities like Fiordland cruises and key accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season, as services can be limited in remote areas.

What is the typical budget range for a comprehensive safari experience in New Zealand's Otago & Southland region?

Costs for a comprehensive experience vary significantly based on your chosen accommodation, activities, and transport. Budget for premium experiences like multi-day guided walks, scenic flights, and Fiordland cruises, which can range from moderate to high, while self-driving and camping offer more budget-friendly options.

Recommended Books

• The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
• Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
• Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
• National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
• The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
• Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
• Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
• The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
• The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
• Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
• African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
• Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
• Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
• The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
• The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
• Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
• When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
• Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
• Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
• Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
• Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
• Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
• Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
• Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
• Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.