Hlane Royal National Park

Weather & Climate

Hlane Royal Safaris

Expert

By Alan Murphy

Alan researched and wrote about Swaziland for Lonely Planet.

Climate Chart Hlane Royal National Park – 210-330m / 689-1,083ft

Hlane Royal National Park experiences winter and summer at the opposite times as Europe and North America. The wet summer months (October to April) are hot and often humid. Winter (May to September) is warm and mild, although it cools off considerably at night. Take warm clothing for early morning and evening game drives.

Dry Season –May to September – Winter

There is virtually no rainfall during the whole of winter and the humidity is very low. Water becomes scarce in the bush, and animals are drawn to permanent water sources.

May – This is a transitional month and marks the end of summer. Temperatures are cooling down to typically 11°C/52°F in the morning and 28°C/82°F in the afternoon.
June, July & August – Morning game drives in open vehicles will be cold, so it's advisable to pack warm clothing. The average morning temperature is 11°C/52°F. Afternoons will be pleasant with temperatures around 25°C/77°F and cloudless skies.
September – The heat gradually builds to about 27°C/81°F in the afternoon, and the first rains bring relief from very dry conditions. Mornings are mild, with temperatures around 15°C/59°F.

Wet Season –October to April – Summer

It can be uncomfortably hot and humid in summer. Peak temperatures frequently reach well over 40°C/104°F, although average daytime temperatures are around 32°C/90°F with high humidity. It seldom rains all day, but the pattern is afternoon storms.

October & November – It gets warmer and it starts to rain more often, mostly in the afternoon. Temperatures are between 18°C/64°F in the morning and 30°C/86°F in the afternoon.
December, January & February – These are the wettest and hottest months, with torrential downpours in the afternoon and high humidity. Afternoon temperatures are usually around 33°C/91°F but can soar up to an unbearable 40°C/104°F.
March & April – Rainfall decreases and it slowly gets colder. April has lovely clear weather and few clouds. The nights get a bit colder but are still pleasant at about 15°C/59°F. Daytime temperatures are around 32°C/90°F, and the humidity drops.