Climate and monthly weather forecast
Botswana

Botswana, located in the heart of Southern Africa, is a country defined by its varied geographical features, from the sprawling Kalahari Desert to the verdant Okavango Delta. Its climate is characterized predominantly by a Tropical Savanna Climate (Aw) and a Semi-arid Steppe Climate (BSh). A Tropical Savanna Climate presents mean temperatures above 18°C (64.4°F) throughout the year with pronounced dry seasons. On the other hand, a Semi-arid Steppe Climate is characterized by low annual precipitation. These climate types lead to Botswana's generally warm weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). The country experiences its highest temperatures from October to April and its lowest from May to September. Rainfall is sparse and unevenly distributed, with the north and east receiving more rain (between 500mm (19.69") and 700mm (27.56") annually) compared to the arid southwest (less than 250mm (9.84") annually).

For ideal weather conditions, the best time to visit Botswana is during the dry season, from May to September. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, averaging from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F), and the chance of rainfall is minimal. This period also coincides with the country's peak wildlife viewing season, particularly in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. The lack of rain forces wildlife to gather around water sources, providing excellent viewing opportunities. Furthermore, mosquitoes are less prevalent in this dry season, reducing the risk of malaria.

The least favourable time to visit Botswana is during the hot, rainy season from December to March. During these months, the weather is uncomfortably hot and humid, with temperatures soaring above 30°C (86°F). The high humidity and heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable. The heavy rains make many roads impassable, especially in the northern national parks. Also, the abundance of water allows wildlife to disperse, making them more difficult to spot.

Spring, from September to November, in Botswana sees temperatures gradually increasing, with daily highs ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). This season marks the end of the dry spell and the commencement of sporadic rainfall. The weather remains largely dry, however, offering excellent conditions for wildlife viewing. The landscapes start to rejuvenate with the first rains, making this a visually captivating time to visit.

Summer in Botswana, from December to March, coincides with the rainy season. The country experiences hot, humid weather, with temperatures frequently rising above 30°C (86°F), and occasionally reaching 40°C (104°F) in the hottest regions. The country receives the bulk of its annual rainfall during this season, often in heavy, brief afternoon showers. Despite the heat and rain, the summer brings a bounty of new life, with many species giving birth during this time, leading to fascinating wildlife viewing experiences.

Autumn, from April to May, marks a transition from the hot, wet summer to the cooler, dry winter. Temperatures during these months are comfortably warm, averaging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). Rainfall decreases significantly during this time, and the landscapes are lush and green from the summer rains. Wildlife viewing remains excellent, as the abundance of water and vegetation support a high diversity of animals.

Winter, from June to August, is the dry season in Botswana. During these months, daytime temperatures average from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F), while nights can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 5°C (41°F). The skies remain clear and the country sees virtually no rain. The dry winter landscape encourages wildlife to congregate around water sources, making this the best season for wildlife viewing. Despite the cool nights, the ample sunshine during the day makes this an ideal time for outdoor activities.

January is in the midst of Botswana's summer and falls within the rainy season, which spans from December to March. During this month, the country experiences some of its highest temperatures and most substantial rainfall. Weather in January »

In February, Botswana continues to experience its summer, and the conditions largely mirror those of the preceding month, January. Temperatures remain high, with an average range between 19°C (66.2°F) and 32°C (89.6°F) across the country. Weather in February »

March ushers in the transition from the hot, rainy summer towards the cooler autumn season in Botswana. Temperatures during March start to decrease slightly but remain relatively high, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C (64.4°F) to 30°C (86°F). Weather in March »

April in Botswana marks the full arrival of autumn, a transitional period leading into the country's dry winter season. During this month, temperatures across the country continue to decrease, providing a pleasant respite from the summer heat. Weather in April »

May marks the onset of winter in Botswana, and with it comes the start of the dry season. During this time, temperatures across the country continue their downward trend, averaging between 10°C (50°F) and 26°C (78.8°F). The transition from the warmth of summer to the chill of winter results in relatively mild daytime temperatures and cooler nights. In Gaborone, the average high temperature is around 25°C (77°F), while at night, temperatures drop to a cooler 9°C (48.2°F). Weather in May »

June represents the heart of winter in Botswana and falls within the dry season, which spans from May to September. During this month, daytime temperatures remain relatively stable compared to May, ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F), providing comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Weather in June »

July is the middle of winter in Botswana and is one of the driest and coolest months of the year. Daytime temperatures average between 10°C (50°F) and 24°C (75.2°F), providing pleasantly mild conditions for exploration and outdoor activities. Weather in July »

August in Botswana signifies the closing stages of winter and the dry season, with temperatures gradually starting to rise in preparation for the approaching spring. Daytime temperatures across the country vary between 12°C (53.6°F) and 27°C (80.6°F), and with the progression of the month, the chill of winter slowly begins to dissipate. In Gaborone, the average high temperature climbs to 25°C (77°F), while nighttime temperatures increase slightly to about 7°C (44.6°F). Weather in August »

September brings the arrival of spring in Botswana, serving as a transition from the dry winter to the rainy summer season. During this month, temperatures across the country continue to rise, averaging between 15°C (59°F) and 31°C (87.8°F). Weather in September »

October in Botswana is characterized by significant warming as the country moves from spring into summer, marking the start of the rainy season. This month sees the highest average temperatures of the year, with daily averages ranging from 19°C (66.2°F) to 34°C (93.2°F). Weather in October »

November in Botswana is a month of contrasts, marking the transition from the hot, dry conditions of October to the warm, rainy environment characteristic of the summer season. During this month, temperatures across the country remain high, with daily averages ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 33°C (91.4°F). Weather in November »

December in Botswana ushers in the full onset of the summer season, characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Daytime temperatures across the country range from 20°C (68°F) to 32°C (89.6°F), providing a hot but bearable climate for outdoor activities. Weather in December »