When to go to Botswana
Botswana’s dry season, June to October is the prime time for safaris. During these months wildlife congregates around the more reliable water sources, making it easier to spot a huge variety of animals. The cooler temperatures (June to September) make the conditions optimal for game drives, walking safaris, and mokoro canoe trips. In a twist of nature, this is also when the waters of the Okavango Delta are at their highest, as flood waters arrive from Angola.
The ‘green’ season, November – May, sees lush greenery and the arrival of migrant birds, with many animals giving birth to their young. This is an incredible time for photography as the vibrant colours of the landscape are set off by bright sunlight piercing through brooding skies.
January
Peak of the rainy season, although it will not rain every day. With the rains in full swing, the lush vegetation and majestic light make for incredible photo opportunities. Migrant birds are arriving in their droves, adding to the eclectic mix of wildlife.
February
Peak of the rainy season, although it will not rain every day. With the rains still at a peak, ripening fruit sees animals and birds alike congregating in and under trees for a sweet meal. Thousands of zebra make their epic migration from the Boteti River and start arriving in the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans.
March
Temperatures drop from hot to very warm, and rain decreases. As rains begin to taper off the migrant birdlife begin their return journeys. Game viewing improves as the water sources begin to dwindle.
April
Rain is much less now, and it’s still very warm. As the rains abate clear skies become the norm. The lush vegetation begins to recede making the spotting of wildlife easier. Breeding season for the multitude of antelope species is in full swing. The wildlife in the Pans will be on the move back to the Boteti River, a permanent water source.
May
Rain has stopped and temperatures are cooler. Evenings begin to cool and wildlife starts to head for the permanent water sources as the waterholes begin to dry up. The wildlife in the Pans continues to move to the permanent water of the Boteti River.
June
Cool dry season, ideal for safari. Sunny days with cooler mornings and evenings. A good time for game viewing and arguably the best time for walking safaris. The Okavango Delta slowly begins to flood in its main areas.
July
Cool dry season, ideal for safari. The dry season sees waterholes diminishing further and game condensing in greater numbers around the permanent water sources. A perfect time for safaris with warm days and chilly mornings and evenings. Also a great time to embark on the mokoro canoes as the channels of the Okavango Delta fill further.
August
Cool dry season, ideal for safari. Amazing wildlife sightings as the dry season really takes hold in contrast to the Okavango Delta where the flood is at its peak. Expect warmer days and colder nights. Even on days with a frost in the early mornings, it will see you stripping off the layers as the sun rises.
September
Temperatures starting to rise, ideal for safari. Clear skies, hotter days, and balmy nights become the norm. The wildlife is battling for survival against the ongoing dry season and the constant presence of large predators. The Okavango Delta’s flood waters begin to recede as they filter into the desert sands. Huge herds of elephants congregate at Chobe as water sources dry up elsewhere.
October
Extremely hot, excellent time for safari. Temperatures soar as the hot, dry days continue. Too hot for some, days can range between 34 degrees and 44 degrees. Game viewing is plentiful with vegetation grazed down to their lowest levels. Huge herds of elephants and buffalos continue to frequent the riverfront in Chobe.
November
Extremely hot, rain is sporadic. Early signs of rain begin to show with thunderclouds building. Temperatures will be very hot until the rain starts to fall. As the vegetation turns green, much of the wildlife begins to give birth, adding to the changing tapestry.
December
Hot, rain is sporadic. Thunderstorms become more frequent as the humidity increases. Trees and flowers start to come into full flower and the landscape takes on a lush and verdant feel. The young animals grow quickly, and day by day stand a better chance in the constant standoff with the array of predators.
Call us and we will be happy to provide you with a free-of-charge no obligation itinerary and quotation designed for you.
01728 752751
Botswana in pictures
