Niassa Special Reserve

Weather & Climate

Niassa Operators

Expert

By Philip Briggs

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Mozambique.

Climate Chart Niassa Special Reserve – 146-1,269m / 479-4,163ft

Niassa Special Reserve has a tropical, hot climate with a Wet and Dry season. The dry, cool season from May to October is preferable for a safari as it offers the most comfortable travel conditions. This time of year also coincides with the best wildlife-viewing months (July to October).

Dry Season –May to October

The Dry season is the ideal time of year for wildlife viewing with animal sightings getting better as the season progresses. The days are nice and warm, while nights are cool.

May – The beginning of the Dry season. The rains have stopped, but the bush hasn’t dried out yet.
June & July – With daytime temperatures around 28°C/82°F, these months are the mildest. At nighttime it cools down considerably with average temperatures of around 17°C/63°F. Rainfall is rare and the bush is becoming parched. Warm clothing for morning game drives is recommended.
August & September – It is getting warm now with September’s average daytime temperature hovering around 30°C/86°F. It is very dry with no sign of rain. Mornings are lovely and cool.
October – At this time of the year, the heat can be challenging in the middle of the day. Temperatures reach an average of 32°C/90°F. However, peak temperatures can be much higher. Mornings are idyllic with temperatures of about 22°C/72°F.

Wet Season –November to April

During the humid Wet season, the roads might deteriorate due to heavy rain and the reserve may be closed from December to the end of April. Frequent showers in the afternoon can turn into spectacular thunderstorms.

November – Conditions are uncomfortably hot and humid during November so it’s a relief when the rains start. The bush has taken on a very parched look and the average daytime temperature usually hovers around 33°C/91°F. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoon.
December, January, February & March – The reserve might be closed during these months. It is the wettest time of the year, although it’s rarely wet all day. Daytime temperatures average 32°C/90°F, while nighttime temperatures average 20°C/68°F.
April – The reserve might be closed as roads are usually in bad condition. The rain is easing off. Landscapes are gorgeous at this time of year, with the bush thick and many shades of green.