Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Weather & Climate

24 Timbavati Safaris

Expert

By Philip Briggs

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

Climate Chart Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Climate Chart Timbavati Nature Reserve – 341-529m / 1,119-1,736ft

Timbavati Nature Reserve's winter and summer are opposite to the seasons in Europe and North America. The Wet season occurs during the summer months (October to April), while the Dry season occurs during the winter (May to September). The summer is hot and humid. Winter is dry and mild, with it cooling off substantially during the night. Warm clothing is essential for early morning game drives.

Dry Season –May to September – Winter

Humidity is low, and there is virtually no rainfall during the winter months. Permanent water sources attract animals as there is little water in the bush.

May – This is a month of transition marking the end of summer. Temperatures typically cool off to 12°C/54°F in the morning and 28°C/82°F in the afternoon.
June, July & August – Game drives in open vehicles will be cold in the morning, as it averages around 11°C/52°F. It would be wise to bring warm clothing. The afternoons are clear and pleasant with an average temperature of 25°C/77°F.
September – The first rains bring relief to the drought-like conditions, and the temperature builds to an average of 27°C/81°F in the afternoon. Mornings become warmer with an average of 15°C/59°F.

Wet Season –October to April – Summer

Humidity can make the heat unbearable during the summer months. Though daytime temperatures average 31°C/88°F, it is not unusual for peaks to reach well over 40°C/104°F. Afternoon thunderstorms occur but seldom last all day.

October & November – Rain frequency increases, primarily in the afternoon. Temperatures between 17°C/63°F in the morning and 30°C/86°F in the afternoon are normal.
December, January & February – Torrential rains during the afternoon are common, making humidity very high. These months are the hottest and the wettest of all. Afternoon temperatures average 33°C/91°F, but temperatures as high as 40°C/104°F are not unusual.
March & April – Rainfall subsides as cooler weather sets in. The month of April has pleasant, clear weather with very little humidity. Nights cool to around 15°C/59°F but are still temperate. The daytime average is 32°C/90°F.