Botswana
Weather and Climate
When To Go
On Safari in Botswana
Botswana weather plays a crucial role in planning your visit. Visiting Africa is sometimes a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and choosing the right time to go is just as important as deciding to visit in the first place.
The question of “When to go?” isn’t straightforward, as it depends on the type of safari experience you want. Do you want to witness the floodplains of the Okavango Delta at their peak, or would you prefer the dry season when game viewing is at its best? Understanding Botswana weather is key to making the right decision. To help you plan, we’ve reviewed Botswana’s climate patterns, offering insights into the best times for different types of safaris, wildlife sightings, and unique experiences. Whether you’re looking for lush landscapes or prime game-viewing conditions, we’ve got you covered.
Green Season
December – March
Botswana weather in these few months can see minimum temperatures of 20 °C (68 °F). Referred to as the “green season”, the days are sunny and cool with afternoon thunder showers. For the avid birder, this is a great time to visit and spot some feathered fledglings as many local and migrant birds fill the flourishing trees.
Green Land & Clear Skies
April – May
Skies clear up and scenery can still be green. Evenings are cooler, especially in the Kalahari. Whereas Okavango Delta experiences moderate temperatures making it a great time to visit – because the countryside is a contrast of green and blue.
Peak Season
June – August
Considered “peak season”, Botswana’s weather changes to cold evenings and warm days. The sky is vibrant and open, the land dry – ideal for a wildlife safari. Word to the wise, it’s always better to book game viewing getaways (not just in Botswana) during winters as you are guaranteed to see animals congregating around popular watering holes.
Warm Days
September- October
Temperatures climb drying the landscape and concentrating wildlife even more. If you want to spot some big game – this is the time to do it. However temperatures can reach an uncomfortable 40 °C (104 °F).
Unpredictable Botswana weather
There are months difficult to predict. November is often the turning point in Botswana’s climate where days swing from sweltering highs and soaking rains. However, November is a great time to watch the birds flocking back home for Christmas.
Has our information about Botswana weather and climate gotten you closer to preparing your safari escape? Find more insight on our Comprehensive Botswana in Style Tour or contact one of our travel experts.