Splash about
The Splashy Fen Music festival, South Africa’s longest-running music event, is back. Drop into the Drakensberg and enjoy. 9-13 April www.splashyfen.co.za

Jazzed up
Join in the Jazz à Carthage, one of North Africa’s largest jazz festivals. The setting is as spectacular as the musical performances. 9-19 April www.jazzacarthage.com

May

Stark running mad
The wilds of South Africa’s Addo Elephant National Park host two extreme marathons: one 50 miles in length, the other 100 miles. 2 May

Rosy future
Visit El Kelaa des M’Gouna in Morocco’s Dades Valley for the annual Rose Festival. Besides petal power there is plenty of music and dancing. 14-27 May

Royal Show
Love livestock? Come see 1400 examples of Southern Africa’s best in Pietermaritzburg. There are also music concerts, dancing and a motorbike extravaganza. 22-31 May www.royalshow.co.za

June

A must for music
The 15th edition of the World Music Festival in Fez is back, and this year its list of musicians is better than ever. 29 May – 7 June www.fesfestival.com

More Moroccan music
Yes, music takes over in Morocco this month. The Gnaoua Festival erupts in Essaouira, with acts from around the planet performing. 25-28 June www.festival-gnaoua.net

Running for a reason
With wildlife watching – including lions – there is plenty of motivation to keep running. Join the Safaricom Marathon at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. 27 June