It is a...
Read More
Best Time to visit Botswana
Botswana is known as the ultimate year-round safari destination. As you plan a Botswana vacation, we have listed the travel favourability for each month.
The dry season in Botswana runs from May to October, while the green season runs from November to April. The question of when to visit Botswana is best answered by thinking about what you want to experience. Here is a month-by-month guide to climate, weather patterns, and activities you can undertake year-round in Botswana.
January in Botswana
The start of the year is generally hot and sunny, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. The Kalahari Desert may receive a life-saving rain, while the Okavango Delta might experience little drizzling. January is the best time for birding safaris, as migratory birds settle near the delta bushes along with young herbivores growing quickly after the breeding season.
February in Botswana
Temperatures can soar during this time, accompanied by thunderstorms. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve remains in its prime, with grassy scenery, while places like Nxai Pan attract zebra, springbok, and oryx, which are preyed upon by predators. You may spot migrating flamingos descending from the plains, while different species of cranes might take over the Okavango Delta.
March in Botswana
In March, the rains actually start to ease, with dry days and nights gradually arriving. You may spot wildlife as zebras remain in the Kalahari, while elephants begin migrating towards the Okavango Delta. Low water volume in the delta may gradually rise, helping start the mokoro rides.
April in Botswana
April sees cooler mornings and evenings with warm days and very little rain. A favourable climate makes it the perfect time for game viewing across Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park, as well as for boat cruises in the Okavango Delta. The breeding seasons of various antelopes occur during this period, making it a spectacular sight for tourists.
May in Botswana
May is considered the best month to visit Botswana. Little to no rainfall occurs this month, and watering holes are almost dry across much of the country. This period is best for Mokoro rides through the Okavango Delta’s channels, walking safaris, village tours, and game viewing. Bike excursions through Makgadikgadi Pans can also take place during this time of the year.
June in Botswana
Midwinter in Botswana occurs in June. You can expect beautiful, warm days without sweating in humidity. In search of water, wildlife gathers around sources such as the Okavango Delta, the Northern waterways of the Savuti Channel, and the Chobe-Linyati River System. You can do mokoro rides, game drives, and walking safaris to view wild dogs, lions, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and other animals gathering near the inland delta.
July in Botswana
July is one of the most popular months to visit Botswana. Even in this dry season, floodwaters filter through the central uplands of Angola. This is the prime time to visit the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, and Chobe National Park for viewing various wildlife. Botswana’s first zebra migration can also be witnessed at the Nxai Pan Zebra
August in Botswana
As winter arrives in Botswana, clear and blue skies stretch across the vast landscapes. Game viewing along the waterways is a constant and popular travel activity during this time. You can also go on mokoro rides, boat cruises, and scenic flights during this time of the year. This is an incredible time for birding safaris across the country.
September in Botswana
You can expect sparkling blue skies, bright sunshine, and hot daytime temperatures. September is considered the best time to spot the Big Five in Botswana. The Chobe and Linyati Rivers are particularly impressive during this time. It is best for game drives, boat cruises, mokoro rides, and walking safaris.
October in Botswana
The heat increases further in October, and safari activities can be avoided until the middle of the day. Many aquatic life migrate upwards to avoid the falling water levels. It is the best time for viewing large elephant herds in Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta. You can also spot famous native avian species, such as the lilac-breasted roller, among the reeds of the inland delta.
November in Botswana
November is known as the “spring shoulder season” in Botswana. This month could be either wet or dry, depending on the occasional rains the weather can bring. Game viewing is popular and convenient during this time. You might spot migratory birds, predators on the hunt, and newborn calves of various herbivores.
December in Botswana
In December, thunderstorms occur in Botswana, with bursts of rain nourishing the landscape. Newborn calves wander across the Kalahari plains and are a marvelous sight for calving safaris. Thai time is perfect for viewing lush green landscapes and various avian species (both indigenous and migratory). Botswana’s second zebra migration can also be witnessed at the Nxai Pan Zebra Migration.
Frequently Asked Questions
May to October (dry season) is the best time to explore Botswana’s wildlife-rich parks, such as the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, and Chobe National Park.
Summer or the Green season is from November to April. Winter in Botswana runs from May to August and is the dry season.
The zebra migration in Botswana occurs during the wet season, from November to April.
The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit and participate in various activities in and around the Okavango Delta.
The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit and participate in various activities in and around the Chobe National Park.
