Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Weather & Climate

19 Central Kalahari Safaris

Expert

By Anthony Ham

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

Climate Chart Central Kalahari Game Reserve – 941-1,132m / 3,087-3,714ft

Central Kalahari Game Reserve has a hot desert climate with a distinct Dry season (April to October) and Wet season (November to March). It is recommended to bring warm clothing for early morning game drives in the Dry season, especially from May or June to August.

Dry Season –April to October

The last rain of the Wet season usually falls in April. From May onward, the park becomes more and more parched as the Dry season progresses. June and July are the coolest months, but temperatures start rising again in August.

April & May – This is the beginning of the Dry season. It is mostly dry and sunny. The middle of the day is pleasant with temperatures rising to 31°C/88°F.
June, July & August – These months rarely see any rain. It is cooler now, with afternoon temperatures reaching 26°C/79°F on average. Early mornings are chilly at about 8°C/46°F.
September & October – This is the end of the Dry season. It gets hotter and hotter before the rains break. October is extremely hot with average afternoon temperatures of 34°C/93°F. Nights and mornings remain pleasant.

Wet Season –November to March

It is a relief when the first rains come. It immediately cools down, and the dust settles. Afternoon thunderstorms and short showers are the pattern. It stays hot throughout the season, with afternoon temperatures of about 35°C/95°F.

November & December – It is hot and mostly sunny. It only rains every now and then, and it mostly comes as a relief as it cools temperatures noticeably. Early mornings are the most comfortable, with average temperatures of around 19°C/66°F.
January & February – These are the wettest months. It rains some afternoons, but the showers or thunderstorms are usually over in a few hours. Heavy and intense (but short) storms are common.
March – The rains are dwindling. It can still rain every couple of days, and it mostly comes in the form of an afternoon thunderstorm. Mornings are slightly cooler at 15°C/59°F.