Zambezi Region (Caprivi Strip)

Weather & Climate

23 Zambezi Region Safaris

Expert

By Anthony Ham

Anthony is the author of the 'Botswana & Namibia' Lonely Planet guide.

Climate Chart Zambezi Region – 900-1,100m / 2,953-3,609ft

The Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip) has a hot climate. Rain usually falls in the form of heavy thunderstorms. There is a Wet season, which coincides with the summer months of November to April. During the dry winter months, from May to October, there is virtually no rainfall (although the rains sometimes begin in late October). It gets very cold in the morning, especially from May to July.

Dry Season –May to October – Winter

These months are the coolest of the year (except for October) and there is almost no rain at all. It gets drier as the winter progresses.

May, June, July & August – It is usually sunny and totally dry. These are the coolest months and the average afternoon temperature is 27°C/81°F. It is cold in the early morning at around 10°C/50°F. Warm clothing for early morning game drives is necessary.
September & October – Temperatures are increasing. October is the hottest month with afternoon temperatures of 35°C/95°F and much higher peaks. Early mornings are less cold at around 19°C/66°F. The rains usually start toward the end of October or in early November.

Wet Season –November to April – Summer

The Wet season falls in the hot summer months but rainfall isn’t very high. Afternoon thunderstorms can be expected on some days. It is mostly sunny and hot. Early mornings are mild.

November & December – The rains usually start in late October or early November. It is still mostly dry, but you can expect the occasional thundershower to bring relief from the long, dry winter. Afternoon temperatures are around 34°C/93°F.
January, February & March – January and February are the wettest months. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, but it is mostly sunny during the day. It usually cools down after rain and average daytime temperatures are around 35°C/95°F.
April – Rain decreases rapidly in April and there are less and less days with precipitation. Temperatures start to drop slowly.