Madikwe Game Reserve

Weather & Climate

40 Madikwe Safaris

Expert

By Philip Briggs

Philip is author of ‘The Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa’.

Climate Chart Madikwe Game Reserve – 926-1,120m / 3,038-3,675ft

In South Africa, summer and winter occur at opposite times to those seasons in Europe, North America and Asia. Madikwe Game Reserve experiences summer rainfall. Therefore, summer in Madikwe corresponds with the Wet season (October to April) and winter with the Dry season (May to September). High temperatures and occasional thunderstorms are to be expected in the summertime. Winters are mild and sunny, but cool at night.

Dry Season –May to September – Winter

Winters have little to no rainfall and the humidity is low. Water becomes hard to find, so animals are forced to gather at reliable water sources. This, combined with thinning vegetation, makes wildlife easier to spot.

May – Temperatures of 7°C/45°F in the morning and 25°C/77°F in the afternoon mark the end of summer.
June, July & August – Warm clothing is needed for early morning game drives as the average minimum temperature is 6°C/43°F. Daytime is nice and clear, with temperatures around 22°C/72°F.
September – A beautiful time of year with average afternoon temperatures of 28°C/82°F and warmer mornings of about 13°C/55°F.

Wet Season –October to April – Summer

It can be quite hot in summer, but the humidity isn’t as uncomfortable as it is at the coast. Daytime temperatures average 32°C/90°F, and occasional rain breaks the heat. It seldom rains all day, but afternoon storms are quite regular.

October & November – Afternoon rains become more common as summer progresses, clearing the hazy skies. Temperatures are between 17°C/63°F in the morning and 32°C/90°F in the afternoon.
December, January & February – These are the wettest months, with short but torrential downpours often occurring in the afternoon. Daytime temperatures are usually around 33°C/91°F.
March & April – A cooling trend develops, and the rains gradually disappear. The month of April is sunny, with daytime temperatures averaging a lovely 29°C/84°F. Nights are mild at around 11°C/52°F.