Mashatu Game Reserve

Weather & Climate

Mashatu Operators

Expert

By Anthony Ham

Anthony is the author of the Botswana & Namibia Lonely Planet guide.

Climate Chart Mashatu Game Reserve – 517-677m / 1,696-2,221ft

Mashatu Game Reserve's climate is semi-arid with an annual rainfall of 300mm to 350mm/11.8in to 13.8in. Rain is highly variable, but occurs almost entirely during the summer months, from October to April. Summers are hot, and winters are mild. Warm clothing for early morning game drives is recommended.

Dry Season –May to September – Winter

Winter is dry, and temperatures are mild. It is, however, chilly in the morning and it is recommended to bring warm clothing for early morning game drives.

May – Summer is coming to an end, and it is cooling down considerably. Average temperatures are mild, with a range of 9°C/48°F in the morning to 27°C/81° during the day.
June, July & August – Chilly mornings are typical during the coldest months of the year. The nighttime temperature routinely drops to about 6°C/43°F, from an average daily high of 26°C/79°F.
September – September is a lovely month, marking the end of the Dry season, and temperatures are increasing, so the early morning drives are less cold. Temperatures are around 13°C/55°F in the morning, and 31°C/88°F in the afternoon.

Wet Season –October to April – Summer

Summers are very hot. The humidity is relatively low, which makes the heat a bit more bearable. It rarely rains all day, but there are occasional afternoon showers. Temperatures always peak before the rain breaks, which in turn cools everything down.

October & November – The first rain comes as a relief after months of dry heat. Temperatures are between 18°C/64°F in the morning and 33°C/91°F in the afternoon.
December, January & February – This is an extremely hot time of year. The average temperature in the afternoon is 33°C/91°F, but peak temperatures may rise to 45°C/113°F or higher. There are occasional afternoon thundershowers, but it never stays cloudy for long.
March & April – It cools down during these months, and temperatures are a bit milder at 31°C/88°F in the afternoon. Mornings are still pleasant at 17°C/63°F. There is some rain, but it stays mostly dry.