Botswana’s weather can vary a lot depending on when and where you visit. It’s a landlocked country sitting right in the middle of Southern Africa. Its climate is generally dry for much of the year, but there are seasonal changes that might impact your plans, especially if you’re interested in certain activities like wildlife viewing or outdoor adventures. So, let’s break down Botswana’s weather by season and month to help you plan your trip.
Botswana’s Climate
In Botswana, you’ll experience a semi-arid climate. The country mainly has two seasons: a wet (rainy) season and a dry season. The wet season runs from November to around March, while the dry season goes from April to October. Summer (wet season) can be humid and hot, while winters (dry season) are cooler and dry.
Because of this, Botswana is generally warm all year round, but there are big temperature drops at night, especially during the dry season when it can get quite chilly, so don’t let the idea of the African heat fool you.
Best Time to Visit Botswana
The best time to visit Botswana mostly depends on what you want to do. Generally, the dry season between May and September is great for wildlife viewing, especially in places like Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta. This is because animals gather around water sources in the dry months, making it easier to spot them.
If you’re into bird-watching, the rainy season (November to March) is the time to go as millions of migratory birds come to the region, filling the landscape with colors and sounds. However, because this is the rainy season, road access can be limited in some areas.
Packing Tips for Botswana’s Weather
If you’re traveling during the dry season, pack light clothing for daytime, but don’t forget a jacket or sweater for the nights—they can get cold. Good walking shoes are also necessary, particularly if you’ll be doing any safaris.
For the wet season, bring quick-dry clothing, waterproof gear, and insect repellent. Even if it rains, temperatures will still be decently warm during the day, so pack light layers.
Botswana’s Weather Month-by-Month
Botswana’s Weather in January
January is smack in the middle of Botswana’s rainy season. It’s hot, humid, and wet. Temperatures can range from 18°C (64°F) in the mornings to 32°C (90°F) in the afternoons.
Rain falls often, with thunderstorms common in the afternoon. This makes the landscape lush and green. While it’s not peak safari season, you can still spot plenty of wildlife, including newborn animals.
Botswana’s Weather in February
February is much like January: hot and rainy. You can expect regular afternoon thunderstorms, and humidity remains relatively high. Temperatures also hover between 18°C (64°F) and 32°C (90°F).
This is another month where the landscape is vibrant, and while it might not be great for traditional safari drives, you’ll have excellent bird-watching opportunities.
Botswana’s Weather in March
March is still part of the rainy season, though by the end of the month, rains become less frequent. You’ll notice drier patches here and there. Daytime temperatures rise to around 30°C (86°F), with nighttime temps cooling down slightly to around 17°C (63°F).
The scenery is still lush, and the end of the month marks a slight transition to the cooler and drier part of the year.
Botswana’s Weather in April
April is a transition month where rain becomes rare, and temperatures start to drop. You’ll start seeing cooler mornings at around 15°C (59°F) and daytime highs around 29°C (84°F).
As the land dries up, animals begin moving toward water sources again, making this a good time to visit if you’re looking to avoid peak tourist seasons but still want good wildlife visibility.
Botswana’s Weather in May
May signals the start of Botswana’s dry season. The skies stay mostly clear, the humidity drops, and daytime temperatures sit around 28°C (82°F). At night, it can get quite cool, with temperatures dropping down to about 10°C (50°F).
It’s a great month to visit if you want to enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds without sacrificing animal sightings.
Botswana’s Weather in June
June is part of Botswana’s winter season. Mornings and evenings can be cold, with temperatures as low as 6°C (43°F), while daytime temperatures climb to a comfortable 25°C (77°F).
This is one of the best months for safaris. The clear skies and drying landscapes make it easier to spot animals as they gather around water sources.
Botswana’s Weather in July
July is one of the coldest months in Botswana. Early mornings and nights can be chilly, going as low as 5°C (41°F), but the days warm up to about 25°C (77°F).
Despite the cooler temps, this is peak safari season, especially in the Okavango Delta. Pack warmer clothes for the mornings and evenings, but the days are usually very comfortable.
Botswana’s Weather in August
August is warm and dry. The nights are still on the cooler side, around 7°C (45°F), but daytime temperatures are rising, reaching up to 28°C (82°F).
It’s still the dry season, so wildlife viewing continues to be excellent as animals are more concentrated around water sources. Plus, minimal rainfall makes getting around easier.
Botswana’s Weather in September
September is another warm and dry month. You’ll have fantastic weather for safaris with daytime temperatures climbing to around 30°C (86°F) and mornings warming up to about 12°C (54°F).
The Okavango Delta is in full flood, and while it’s getting warmer, it’s still manageable. Pack lighter clothes for the days, but don’t forget something warmer for the mornings and evenings.
Botswana’s Weather in October
October is the hottest month in Botswana. You can expect daytime highs of around 35°C (95°F), and even nighttime temperatures can stay as warm as 18°C (64°F).
This is the last month to see animals grouped around water sources before the rains set in. If you can handle the heat, October also offers some of the best game viewing opportunities.
Botswana’s Weather in November
November marks the start of the rainy season in Botswana. While it’s still pretty hot, with daytime temperatures around 34°C (93°F), you can expect some afternoon thunderstorms.
The rain starts to bring some relief from the heat, and the landscape begins to green up. This is a great month if you want to see both dry-season wildlife and the start of the rainy transformation.
Botswana’s Weather in December
By December, the rain is in full swing. Expect hot temperatures during the day—around 32°C (90°F)—but don’t be surprised by regular rainfall, especially in the afternoons and evenings.
The Okavango Delta begins to swell, and this is a phenomenal month for birdwatchers as migratory species settle in. Just remember, the wet conditions might make road travel a bit trickier.
Final Travel Tips
Overall, Botswana’s weather is manageable just about any time of year, but knowing what to expect will make your trip smoother. If you’re aiming for safaris, stick to the dry season months (May to September). If bird-watching is your thing, the rainy season is your go-to (November to March).
Either way, pack smart with layers and be prepared for hot days and surprisingly cool nights. Enjoy your trip!
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