Mashatu Game Reserve

Weather & Climate

Mashatu Operators

Expert

By Anthony Ham

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

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 (12in to 14in). Rain is highly variable but occurs almost entirely during the summer months from November to March. Summers are hot, and winters are mild. Warm clothing for early morning game drives is recommended.

Dry Season –April to October

Winter is dry with mild daytime temperatures. It is chilly in the mornings though, so bring warm clothing for early morning game drives.

April & May – Summer is coming to an end and it is cooling down considerably. Average temperatures are mild, ranging from 12°C/54°F in the morning to 29°C/84°F in the afternoon.
June, July & August – Chilly mornings are typical during the coldest months of the year. The nighttime temperature routinely drops to about 9°C/48°F, from an average daily high of 24°C/75°F.
September & October – These are lovely months at the end of the Dry season, when temperatures are increasing and early morning game drives are less cold. Temperatures are around 17°C/63°F in the morning and 30°C/86°F in the afternoon.

Wet Season –November to March

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.

November – The first rain comes as a relief after months of dry heat. Temperatures are between 19°C/66°F in the morning and 32°C/90°F in the afternoon.
December, January & February – This is an extremely hot time of year. The average temperature in the afternoon is 35°C/95°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 – It cools down a bit during March, with temperatures averaging 34°C/93°F in the afternoon. Mornings are still pleasant at 17°C/63°F. There is some rain, but it stays mostly dry.