Nxai Pan National Park

Weather & Climate

Nxai Pan Safaris

Expert

By Anthony Ham

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

Climate Chart Nxai Pan National Park – 914-953m / 2,999-3,127ft

Nxai Pan National Park has well-defined Dry (April to October) and Wet (November to March) seasons, as well as a hot, desert climate. As the Dry season progresses, the park becomes more and more parched, with the heat reaching its peak in October. When the rains break, marking the start of the Wet season, it cools down immediately. Rains can sometimes arrive as early as late October and linger as late as early April.

Dry Season –April to October

April sees the tail end of the Wet season, with the last of the rains. June and July are the coolest months, but the temperature begins to climb in August, with a peak in October.

April & May – The start of the Dry season is mostly sunny and dry. It is warm in the middle of the day, with temperatures rising to about 33°C/91°F.
June, July & August – These months see little rain. Conditions are cooler, with average afternoon temperatures of 28°C/82°F. It gets chilly in the morning at about 11°C/52°F. Bring warm clothing for early morning game drives.
September & October – The end of the Dry season is notable for the heat reaching its peak before the rains break. October is uncomfortably hot, with average daytime temperatures of 36°C/97°F. Nights and mornings are much more comfortable.

Wet Season –November to March

It rarely rains all day, although afternoon thunderstorms and short showers can become a consistent pattern. The season stays hot throughout, with afternoon temperatures of about 36°C/97°F. Mornings are cooler.

November & December – Conditions are hot with plenty of sunshine. Rain is inconsistent but comes as a relief because temperatures tend to build up before the rain and drop afterward. The average temperature during early morning is around 20°C/68°F.
January & February – During the wettest time of year, afternoon thunderstorms are typical. They rarely last longer than a few hours.
March – The rains are easing off. Rainfall mostly comes as a thunderstorm, and it can still rain every couple of days. At 16°C/61°F, mornings are slightly cooler.