in Botswana: when to go?
semi-aride subtropical climate
Botswana enjoys a semi-arid subtropical climate characterized by two distinct seasons. The dry season runs from April to October with sunny days, cool nights and virtually no rainfall—it's the ideal period for wildlife viewing in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. The rainy season from November to March brings torrential afternoon showers, transforming the landscape into lush savanna but making some tracks impassable. Temperatures vary considerably between day and night, particularly during the southern winter (June-August) when mornings can be freezing before becoming very pleasant during the day. For optimal safari conditions and comfortable camping, favor the May to September period when sparse vegetation facilitates wildlife observation concentrated around permanent water points.
- Best period
- April to September
- Good alternatives
- March, October to November
- Scorching summer
- December to February
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
Botswana's general climate
FairSemi-arid climate dominated by the Kalahari Desert, with regional variations. The Okavango Delta to the north benefits f...
Delta de l'Okavango
FavorableRégion de Chobe
FairDésert du Kalahari central
FairMakgadikgadi Pans
FairRéserve de Moremi
FavorableMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
20° — 36°C
Precipitation
104 mm
Average temperature
4.4°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Heavy afternoon showers, difficult road conditions. Lush landscapes but wildlife spotting challenging.
Temperature
19° — 35°C
Precipitation
92 mm
Average temperature
4.2°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Still plenty of rain but less intense. Some areas of the delta remain inaccessible.
Temperature
17° — 33°C
Precipitation
63 mm
Average temperature
4°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Rains fade away, pleasant temperatures. Wildlife begins to concentrate near water sources.
Temperature
11° — 30°C
Precipitation
22 mm
Average temperature
3.5°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Excellent safari conditions, perfect temperatures. All roads are passable.
Temperature
5° — 28°C
Precipitation
4 mm
Average temperature
3°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Perfect conditions for safari and camping. Cool mornings, mild and sunny days.
Temperature
2° — 26°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Average temperature
2.5°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Peak season safari with maximum visibility. Very cool mornings, bring warm clothing.
Temperature
2° — 27°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Average temperature
2.5°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Best wildlife viewing conditions. Crystal-clear skies but freezing nights.
Temperature
5° — 30°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Average temperature
3°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Still excellent safari conditions. Temperatures rising slightly, more comfortable.
Temperature
11° — 34°C
Precipitation
2 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Last optimal period before the rains. Rising heat but still manageable.
Temperature
17° — 38°C
Precipitation
18 mm
Average temperature
4.4°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Intense daytime heat, possible early storms. Sparse vegetation for safaris.
Temperature
19° — 37°C
Precipitation
55 mm
Average temperature
4.5°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Stifling heat and regular early rains. Breeding season for many animals.
Temperature
20° — 36°C
Precipitation
88 mm
Average temperature
4.5°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Frequent rainfall and humid heat. Limited access to certain remote areas of the delta.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit in Botswana
The best months to visit in Botswana are April, May, June, July, August, September. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
The arid climate of Botswana alternates between very hot summers (months to avoid for comfort: December, January, February) and mild to cool winters. The average annual temperature is 22.3°C. Desert nights can be surprisingly cool, even in summer.
The best time to explore the desert spans April, May, June, July, August, September. Comfortable daytime temperatures, starlit nights, and dunes accessible without extreme heat. Avoid the peak summer heat (December, January, February).
Yes, but with precautions: early morning and late afternoon activities, constant hydration, air-conditioned accommodations. Coastal cities remain pleasant. Treks and desert expeditions are best avoided.
Yes, especially in winter and for nights in the desert. The temperature difference between day and night can exceed 20°C. A warm jacket and sweater are essential outside the summer season.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in in Botswana, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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