Thornybush Game Reserve

Weather & Climate

Thornybush Safaris

Expert

By Philip Briggs

Philip is author of ‘The Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa’.

Climate Chart Thornybush Game Reserve – 445-579m / 1,460-1,900ft

Thornybush Game Reserve experiences its winter and summer at opposite times to those seasons in Europe and North America. Winter (May to September) is dry with mild temperatures, while summer (October to April) is wet, hot and humid. Be sure to pack warm clothing for morning and evening game drives. Thundershowers are typical during the Wet season, although rain rarely lasts long.

Dry Season –May to September – Winter

Rainfall is scarce during the winter and there is little humidity. Permanent water sources become a gathering place for animals as water becomes hard to find elsewhere.

May – May marks the end of summer. Average temperatures cool to around 12°C/54°F in the morning, while afternoons average 28°C/82°F.
June, July & August – Game drives in the early morning tend to be cold, with temperatures around 11°C/52°F, so bring warm clothing. Afternoons tend to be sunny and pleasant with temperatures averaging 25°C/77°F.
September – The heat climbs to an afternoon average of 27°C/81°F. Mornings warm up to 15°C/59°F on average. Rains finally begin, relieving the drought-like conditions.

Wet Season –October to April – Summer

The heat and humidity of the summer can get uncomfortable. Temperatures can peak at 40°C/104°F and higher. On average, the daytime temperatures are around 31°C/88°F. Afternoon storms are common, but it is rare for the rain to last all day.

October & November – The rain is more frequent, and temperatures hover between 18°C/64°F in the morning and 29°C/84°F in the afternoon.
December, January & February – These are the wettest and hottest months. Torrential downpours occur during the afternoon, resulting in high humidity. Average afternoon temperatures of 32°C/90°F are common, but temperatures can reach 40°C/104°F or higher and become unbearable.
March & April – It gets slightly cooler, and it rains less. The month of April is almost perfect with clear weather, less humidity and few clouds. Nights are colder but pleasant at about 15°C/59°F. Daytime temperatures of 32°C/90°F are common.