Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve Best Time To Visit
Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Malawi.
The best months to view wildlife are from July to October (the latter half of the Dry season). This is due to water in the bush having dried up. Animals tend to gather around remaining water sources at this time, making them relatively easy to see. Be aware though that the heat in October can be punishing.
May to October Dry Season
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Best time for wildlife watching
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Not much rain and plenty of sunshine
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It never gets very busy
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With few mosquitoes to bother people, the malaria risk is low
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High season rates are applicable from July to October
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Skies are very hazy and the bush looks brittle and dry
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October can be unbearably hot
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Chilly mornings from May to September when the mercury plummets
November to April Wet Season
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Scenery is idyllic – green and fresh
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There are few tourists and rates are lower
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Best time for birders as migratory birds are present
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Lots of newborn animals
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Wildlife viewing is not as good as the Dry season
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The weather is hot and muggy
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Malaria is a bigger concern than in the Dry season
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Rains can badly affect the roads