Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

Weather & Climate

Nkhotakota Safaris

Expert

By Philip Briggs

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Malawi.

Climate Chart Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve – 500-1,638m / 1,640-5,374ft

Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve has a warm climate, with a distinct Wet season (November to April) and Dry season (May to October). Although temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the year, there is a notable increase in October, before the rains arrive. It gets quite cold at night in the Dry season, especially over May to August.

Dry Season –May to October – Winter

There is very little rainfall in the Dry season. Animals are easier to spot as the bush dries out and wildlife gathers around the remaining water. It is hot during the day, but much cooler at night. Warm clothing for early-morning drives is recommended.

May – This is the start of the Dry season. The bush is beautiful and still lush and there is a lot of water around, although the rain has dropped off.
June & July – There is virtually no rain, and the bush is getting drier. Daytime temperatures average 24°C/75°F, while nights are much cooler, struggling to reach 13°C/55°F. Don’t forget warm clothing for early-morning drives.
August & September – The rain has come to a complete halt and the bush is starting to look very dry. It is warming up, and September has a pleasant average daytime temperature of 27°C/81°F.
October – This is the time when temperatures can be brutal. Although the average is 30°C/86°F, temperatures peak much higher. Mornings are lovely, with temperatures around 19°C/66°F. The first rain sometimes falls this month, with the temperature mercifully dropping after the rain.

Wet Season –November to April – Summer

It tends to be very humid and warm during the Wet season. Afternoon showers are common, and thunderstorms are often dramatic. The sky is clear of dust, and the bush looks green and healthy.

November – The rains usually start in November and conditions are hot and humid. The rain comes as a relief. During the day, temperatures are around 30°C/86°F. It doesn’t rain every day, but when it does, it usually comes in afternoon thunderstorms.
December, January, February & March – The wettest months mean rain most days, but it usually doesn’t rain all day. Daytime temperatures average 28°C/82°F, while night and early-morning temperatures average 17°C/63°F.
April – This is a lovely time of year, as the rain is winding down but the landscape is lush and green.