Young Lions

WINTER: April-September

Winter in general lasts from the end of April through to September with June through to September widely considered the best time of year for game viewing with increasing animal activity as the dry season progresses. The animals seek out the permanent water sources such as the Chobe River, newly flowing Savute Channel and the permanent waters of the Okavango Delta. The start of April and May are also beautiful in terms of the green bush, the full swing of the Impala rut, the trees in fruit and can also be very rewarding for seeing game. In April/May there is still the possibility of some late summer showers however in general the days are dry, sunny and clear with warm evenings in April, turning cooler in May and then dropping night time temperatures in June, July, and August. In these months evenings and early morning can be cold and you will certainly need a fleece or jacket. If visiting the Kalahari Desert a hat and gloves is also advisable as temperatures can drop below zero. The days are still warm and sunny reaching a comfortable 25 degrees in general in mid winter. As we move into September the temperature noticeably begins to rise again reaching into the 30 degrees range. In October, the weeks preceding the start of the rains tend to be the hottest and temperatures can rise above 40 degrees on some days. This is a fantastic time for game viewing however not advisable for those who are not comfortable with nor used to the heat.

Elephant Herd - Chobe

Buffalo Herd - Chobe

SUMMER: October – March

Okavango Lighting Storm

Summer comes with the onset of the rains that usually begin in November and the temperature day and night remains high throughout the summer months. All the animals, residents and vegetation are desperate for the relief the rains brings. When the rain arrives the animals disperse to feed on new grasses and drinks from seasonal pans. November is an interesting time as the Impala, Tsessebe and Lechwe drop their young and the predators become very active preying on the vulnerable young. It is a time to see the bush come alive again after the dry months and is fantastic for photography. Into December, January, February and March the birding is fantastic as the migrants arrive back to Botswana’s unique waterways. The backdrop of late afternoon thunderstorms and colorful skies make for dramatic photo opportunities and contrast with the now flourishing African bush. Generaly one is less likely to experience the high concentrations of game found later in the dry season, however during summer time Botswana is a birder and botanists paradise.

Carmine Beeater

Saddle Bill Stork

Impala Calf & Mother