Northern Tuli Game Reserve

Weather & Climate

Northern Tuli Operators

Expert

By Anthony Ham

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

Climate Chart Northern Tuli Game Reserve – 517-677m / 1,696-2,221ft

The climate in Northern Tuli Game Reserve is semi-arid. Rainfall is little and unpredictable, measuring 300mm to 350mm (12in to 14in) annually and restricted almost entirely to the summer months, from November to March. Summers tend to be hot, while winters are mild.

Dry Season –April to October

It is dry during winter and temperatures are mild. Bring warm clothing for early game drives though, as it does get chilly in the morning.

April & May – It cools down considerably during May, with summer coming to an end. Mild temperatures in May range between 10°C/50°F in the morning and 27°C/81°F later in the day.
June, July & August – During the coldest months of the year, chilly mornings are common. The temperature falls to about 9°C/48°F during the night, from an average daily high of 24°C/75°F.
September & October – The end of the Dry season means rising temperatures, which make early morning game drives more comfortable; October days can be very warm. Temperatures hover around 17°C/63°F in the morning and increase to 30°C/86°F in the afternoon.

Wet Season –November to March

Conditions during summer are very hot, although humidity stays fairly low. Rain is usually a welcome relief, and while afternoon showers are common, it rarely rains all day. Temperatures are at their most brutal just before the rain breaks the heat.

November – After months of dry heat building, the first rains are a relief. Temperatures vary between 19°C/66°F in the morning and 32°C/90°F in the afternoon.
December, January & February – An extremely hot time of year. The average temperature is 35°C/95°F, but it often peaks much higher (around 45°C/113°F). Early morning is the best time of day with temperatures about 19°C/66°F. The occasional thunderstorm brings relief.
March – It is cooling down a little with temperatures of around 34°C/93°F in the afternoon. At 17°C/63°F, the mornings are still pleasant. There is a bit of rainfall, but conditions are mostly dry.