Chobe National Park

Weather & Climate

202 Chobe Safaris

Expert

By Anthony Ham

Anthony is the author of the Lonely Planet guide to Botswana.

Climate Chart Chobe National Park – 919-1,061m / 3,015-3,481ft

Chobe National Park has a warm to hot climate, with a Dry season (April to October) and a Wet season (November to March). The coolest months are from May to August, and most rain falls between December and March. It is advisable to bring warm clothing for boat trips and early morning game drives.

Dry Season –April to October

The last showers marking the end of the Wet season normally fall in April. From May, the park becomes drier and drier. Temperatures are coldest in June and July, but begin increasing in August and peak in October.

April & May – These months mark the beginning of the Dry season. The vegetation is still green, and it is mostly dry and sunny. It is hot in the middle of the day, with temperatures climbing to 32°C/90°F.
June, July & August – There is very little rain during these months. It is a bit cooler now with afternoon temperatures climbing to about 28°C/82°F. Early mornings are cold at around 11°C/52°F.
September & October – As the Dry season draws to a close, it continues to get hotter before the rains break. October is very hot with average afternoon temperatures of 36°C/97°F. However, conditions at night and in the mornings are pleasant.

Wet Season –November to March

The first rains bring relief. It doesn’t usually rain all day, but afternoon thunderstorms are common. It’s hot throughout the season, with afternoon temperatures around 35°C/95°F. Mornings are pleasant.

November & December – Conditions are hot and sunny. Temperatures tend to build before it rains, and then drop afterward. Early mornings are pleasant at around 20°C/68°F.
January & February – The first two months of the year are the wettest. There is usually rain in the afternoon, but only for a few hours. Heavy storms are common.
March – The rains are lessening. There is still rainfall every couple of days though, and it mostly comes as a thunderstorm. Mornings are cooler at 16°C/61°F.