Maputo National Park

Weather & Climate

Maputo NP Operators

Expert

By Philip Briggs

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Mozambique.

Climate Chart Maputo National Park – 0-30m / 0-98ft

In Maputo National Park, summer and winter are experienced at the opposite times of year to Europe, North America and Asia. The area receives most of its rainfall during the summer (October to April), which is known as the Wet season. It usually starts slightly earlier here than it does in more northern parts of Mozambique. Winter, known as the Dry season, is pleasantly warm and falls from May to September. The park is at sea level and has a subtropical climate. Summer is hot and humid, but the sea breeze lessens the heat greatly.

Dry Season –May to September – Winter

Winter sees much less rain than summer, although an occasional shower could occur at any time due to the coastal location. The temperatures are mild, and skies are generally clear and bright.

May – The rain and humidity lessen while average temperatures drop to 15°C/59°F in the morning and rise to 27°C/81°F in the afternoon.
June, July & August – Cold mornings follow nighttime temperatures of around 14°C/57°F. This makes warm clothing a necessity, especially on early morning game drives. Afternoons are pleasant, with temperatures of around 24°C/75°F.
September – Temperatures rise gradually to an average of 27°C/81°F. Mornings are warmer, with temperatures hovering around 17°C/63°F.

Wet Season –October to April – Summer

The heat is intense during the summer and it’s humid. Rain is frequent, though mostly in the afternoons. Heavy thunderstorms occur regularly.

October – The rains usually start in October. It rains on many afternoons. Temperatures are between 18°C/64°F in the morning and 28°C/82°F in the afternoon.
November & December – The rain picks up and the bush is getting greener and thicker. Afternoons are very hot.
January & February – The heat and humidity are intense. These are the wettest months and afternoon storms are common. Although it can get much hotter, average daily temperatures are around 32°C/90°F. Early morning is pleasant, with an average of 20°C/68°F.
March & April – Average daily temperatures become more tolerable at 30°C/86°F. It rains less frequently and the humidity decreases. Mornings are fair at 18°C/64°F.