Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Weather & Climate

27 Makgadikgadi Pans Safaris

Expert

By Anthony Ham

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

Climate Chart Makgadikgadi Pans National Park – 904-945m / 2,966-3,100ft

The climate in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is hot and desert-like. As with the rest of the country, the park experiences a distinct Dry and Wet season. In the Dry season (April to October), temperatures tumble at night, so bring warm clothing for early morning game drives, and especially if you’re camping.

Dry Season –April to October

The last rains typically fall in March or early April. The park begins to look parched as the Dry season progresses. June, July and August promise the most pleasant daytime temperatures, but the mercury starts rising in September, and peaks in October and November.

April & May – The beginning of the Dry season is enjoyable, with days that are mostly dry and sunny. Average daytime temperatures are around 32°C/90°F.
June, July & August – It is cooler during the middle of the Dry season, with temperatures rising to around 27°C/81°F in the afternoon. Rainfall is very limited. Be prepared for chilly conditions in the early morning (temperatures are about 10°C/50°F).
September & October – Conditions at night, and in the morning, are agreeable at the end of the Dry season. However, the days get sweltering before the rains finally break. By October, temperatures of 36°C/97°F make the park extremely hot.

Wet Season –November to March

There is great relief when the first rains fall because it immediately cools down a little and the dust settles. It seldom rains the whole day: expect short showers or an afternoon thunderstorm. It continues to be very warm throughout the season.

November & December – The end of the year is hot and frequently sunny, and it only rains sporadically. Early mornings have average temperatures of around 21°C/70°F, making them very comfortable.
January & February – These months receive the most rainfall. It usually rains in the afternoon with intense, heavy storms, but they rarely last for more than an hour or two.
March – This month sees a decrease in rainfall, but it can rain every couple of days, and thunderstorms are still around. Mornings have pleasant conditions with temperatures of about 16°C/61°F.