Weather in Kruger National Park: The Weatherman’s Guide
Overview
Travelers who are fortunate enough to visit Kruger National Park should be aware that the weather can change quickly, and that there are seasons of the year that are preferable to visit the park over others.
The seasons of winter and summer in Kruger National Park are reversed with respect to those of Europe and North America. The months of October through April, which are considered to be summer, are typically very hot and humid. Even though it is substantially cooler at night, the days during the dry winters (May to September) are still warm and pleasant.
Kruger National Park weather according to the different seasons
Travelers can choose the ideal time to visit this spectacular national park in South Africa by doing the necessary preliminary study before planning their excursions. When planning to go on early morning and evening game drives, it is always a good idea to bring along some warm gear, regardless of the time of year.
Not only will weather conditions, wet and dry seasons, and daytime temperatures decide whether it is comfortable or uncomfortable to undertake a safari to this location, the season will also impact whether you will find what you came looking for when you get there.
Dry season–May to September
The months of May through September are considered to be the winter months and dry season in Kruger National Park.
During the entirety of winter, there is almost little chance of receiving any kind of precipitation, and the relative humidity level is quite low. When water is in short supply in the wilderness, animals are more likely to congregate around stable water sources.
May represents the end of summer and ushers in the beginning of fall. Temperatures are dropping and will normally be 12 degrees Celsius in the morning and 27 degrees Celsius in the afternoon.
Morning game drives in open vehicles throughout the months of June, July, and August will be chilly, thus it is recommended that you take thick winter gear. The temperature in the morning typically may be 10 degrees Celsius. The afternoons will be very comfortable with temperatures around 26 degrees Celsius and clear skies.
September is the month in which the temperature rises gradually to approximately 29 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, and the first showers bring relief from the extremely dry circumstances. Temperatures in the morning may roughly be around 14 degrees Celsius.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Animals are likely to congregate around water sources. | Morning and evening game drives can be very chilly |
| Very little chance of rain | Night temperatures can drop very low |
| Humidity not uncomfortably high | The bush is dry and not very attractive |
| Day temperatures not too hot | The park may be crowded due to it being high season |
| Bush is not dense and animals more visible |
Wet seasons–October to April
These months mark summer in Kruger National park.
In the summer, the temperature and humidity can reach intolerable levels. Although daytime temperatures are typically around 32 degrees Celsius with a significant level of humidity, maximum temperatures frequently go well above 40 degrees Celsius. Although it is unusual to rain continuously throughout the day, afternoon storms are typical.
During the months of October and November, the temperature rises, and it begins to rain more frequently, most of the time in the afternoon. Temperatures range from 18 degrees Celsius in the morning to 31 degrees Celsius in the afternoon.
The months of December, January, and February are the hottest and wettest of the year. These months are distinguished by heavy downpours in the afternoon and a high level of humidity. Temperatures in the day often hover around 32 degrees Celsius but can climb to an intolerable 40 degrees Celsius at any time.
In March and April, there is less precipitation, and the temperature gradually drops. The month of April often has beautiful weather with very few clouds. The evenings become slightly chillier but are still comfortable, averaging around 18 degrees Celsius. Temperatures throughout the daytime hover about 30 degrees Celsius, and the humidity gradually lowers.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| The bush is lush and green | Animals not very visible due to dense bush |
| Lots of baby and young animals can be seen | Temperature and humidity can be intolerably high |
| Roads and camps may be quieter due to low season | Rain may deter you from undertaking bush walks |
| There is a small risk of contracting malaria |
Malaria Risk in summer
Kruger National Park is in a malaria zone, but there is only a very low risk during the wet summer months (from October to April). You should protect yourself at this time by wearing appropriate clothing and applying mosquito repellent.
Seek medical advice about antimalarial medication options and whether they are required before your trip. Several vaccinations are also advised when visiting South Africa in general and Kruger in particular.
What to see and do during each season
Unlike many other African countries, South Africa does have four distinct seasons. The months of May through September are normally the drier months, which cover winter and a shorter spring season.
As a result, these months are perfect for going on game drives and participating in other types of outdoor excursions. October to April is the wet season, including fall and summer.
This is a good season for bird-watching, and even then, rains are frequently short showers that are unlikely to hinder your trip. The months of December through February are extremely warm (what the Northern Hemisphere would consider summer), and because schools are on break during those months, crowds are not uncommon.
It is possible for rain in the Kruger National Parkin the months of November through February, which makes this an ideal season to come here for a birdingsafari. The more temperate winter months, on the other hand, present excellent circumstances for observing large game; hence, the months of May through September are the greatest time for a Kruger National Parktrip.
During the dry season, when animals are forced to seek water elsewhere, they concentrate along rivers and waterholes.
The months of May through September are considered to be high season for all game parks. However, throughout the months of October through March, visitors will not find the park to be unduly crowded, with the exception of the main camps in Kruger National Park during school vacations.
The park’s rainy season runs from October to April, and following the first rains of the season, the landscape begins to turn green. Observing birds during this time of year is especially rewarding because there are also migratory birds around.
FAQ
1. Is Kruger National Park a good safari destination?
Yes, Kruger National Park is one of southern Africa’s most popular safari destinations due to its accessibility and abundant wildlife.
2. Can one visit Kruger National Park all year round?
Yes, one can visit Kruger National Park all year round, but the season of your choice will depend on what you aim to achieve with your trip.
3. Can one go on a guided tour of Kruger National Park?
Yes, several tour operators offer a variety of budget and luxury guided tours to the park, ranging from day visits to five day or longer excursions.
4. Is a private tour to Kruger National Park possible?
Yes, a few tour operators also offer private tours to the park. Guests should note though that only the transfers and game drives may possibly be operated privately, but that at camps, even the luxury ones, other people may be present.
5. Is there a risk of contracting Malaria in Kruger National Park?
During the summer months there is a small possibility of contracting malaria since the park is officially located in a malaria zone.
