Today, I find myself reflecting on something that may seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of a safari experience—but for those of us who spend our days in the bush, it’s a charming, ongoing internal debate. It’s not about the Big Five, rare sightings, or even tracking techniques. It’s about a simple but meaningful part of the safari rhythm: morning coffee in the wilderness versus afternoon sundowners at sunset. Which one is better?

Stopping for a quick drink before moving on.

At first glance, it may seem like a matter of personal preference. But as with many things out here in the bush, context is everything. The answer may shift with the seasons, the weather, the wildlife, and even your mood that day. Still, both moments are cornerstones of the safari experience.

Enjoy the truly African taste of Amarula in your coffee after a successful morning in the bush

Let me paint the picture.

A typical game drive—whether in the morning or late afternoon—usually lasts between three to three and a half hours. Of course, this can vary depending on wildlife sightings and weather conditions. What you can almost always count on, though, is a short stop during the drive: a pause to soak in the surroundings, stretch your legs, and enjoy a drink.

In the mornings, this break is marked by freshly brewed coffee and a few tasty treats. In the evenings, it’s the legendary “sundowners”—a drink of your choice, often with a spectacular sunset as the backdrop. Now here’s where the debate kicks in: which of these moments is truly the best?

The perfect sunset spot, Plaque Rock. While here one evening, moody clouds rolling in on the horizon, we were hoping that they might bring us some rain.

The Summer Perspective

In summer, the bush comes alive early. The sun rises fast, and by the time you’re stopping for coffee around 7:30 or 8:00 a.m., the heat is already settling in. You might find yourself looking for a shady spot under a marula tree just to enjoy your coffee in comfort.

Morning game drive coffee.

Still, there’s something wonderful about standing there with a warm mug in hand, surrounded by the quiet hum of nature. Birds calling in the distance, perhaps an elephant browsing nearby, and the gentle golden light filtering through the trees—these are the things that make morning coffee so special.

Tracker Joy, enjoying a warm beverage during a morning game drive.

But then, there’s the other side of the coin.

In summer, the evenings are warm and long. The sun doesn’t set until later, and even after it dips below the horizon, the sky stays lit with pastel tones for quite a while. This means your sundowner stop might not always have the classic fiery orange sunset, but what it does have is a cool, refreshing drink to cut through the heat of the day. Whether it’s a cold beer, a crisp G&T, or even an ice-cold Coca-Cola, it feels like a well-earned reward.

A cold beverage to see out a warm summer’s afternoon.

For me, in the peak of summer, I lean toward the sundowner. There’s just something deeply satisfying about sipping a cold drink with the soft evening breeze brushing past and the sounds of the bush settling down for the night.

Winter Brings a New Challenge

Now, winter is a different story altogether.

In the early mornings, the bush can be cold. You may be wrapped in blankets, wearing gloves, and still feel the chill of the wind as the vehicle moves. That first stop for coffee becomes not just a break, but a moment of genuine comfort. A hot mug of coffee or cocoa can warm you from the inside out. The crisp air, the dew still clinging to the grass, and the silence of a still-sleepy landscape—it’s magical. These moments are intimate and grounding.

Misty mornings.

Then, as the day progresses, the air warms up slightly, but evenings return quickly to the cold. And although the sunsets in winter are spectacular—truly a painter’s palette of reds, purples, and oranges—the chill sets in fast. While the view may be unbeatable, sipping a cold beer or G&T doesn’t always have the same appeal when you’re bundled up in a jacket.

Spectacular colours of a winter’s evening

So in winter, I find myself torn. The sunsets are stunning, no doubt. But the warmth and comfort of that morning cup, especially in a quiet, misty clearing, might just win my vote.

The Final Verdict?

I suppose that’s the beauty of it. There’s no definitive answer. The seasons shape the experience, and your personal mood will sway the decision from one drive to the next. But perhaps that’s the heart of safari life—it’s not about choosing one perfect moment. It’s about fully appreciating each one as it comes.

So what’s your take? Do you prefer the quiet sunrise moments with coffee in hand, or the golden-hour cheer of sundowners in the bush? Let me know what your perfect safari drink moment is—I’d love to hear your thoughts.