If you’re heading to South Africa a visit to Kruger National Park is essential. But when is the best time to visit Kruger National Park? We’ll help you answer this very question below.
The best time to visit Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is an all-year destination, so no matter when you go you will have a great experience. However, there are two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Generally speaking, the dry season is better for viewing wildlife as the foliage is thinner and animals are easier to spot as they congregate near watering holes.
Kruger National Park’s Dry Season: May – September
If you’re planning to visit Kruger National Park, undoubtedly you want to see some exceptional wildlife. It is best then to visit during the dry season, which is from May – September. During this period of time, the foliage and vegetation thins out and hence it is easier to spot animals. Since water is limited, animals congregate around watering holes making wildlife viewing quite exceptional.
Remember the dry season is winter in South Africa, with temperature varying from a minimum of ~9 degrees celsius to a maximum of ~28 degrees celsius. It can get slightly chilly when you are on a game drive so be sure to carry a warm fleece jacket with you.
Also it is best to avoid popular holidays, especially local holidays, as Kruger National Park can get very crowded.
Kruger National Park’s Wet Season: End October – April
The first rain clouds of the season appear at the end of October, quenching the thirst of the land. The weather will slowly become quite hot and humid because summer is here. You can expect the temperature to range from ~14 degrees celsius to ~35 degrees celsius. When you are out on a game drive, this can feel quite hot, so wear light clothing and keep drinking lots of water.
The foliage slowly turns greener and more lush, and animals will soon start giving birth. This is quite a spectacle to see as well: happy, well-fed animals with their babies at their side.
During this period, you can either expect periods of continual rain or dazzling thunderstorms. (This is the time to be careful about malaria). Be prepared for roads and tracks to be suddenly submerged under rain water, and your guide to be forced to take a different route back to camp. Another day of adventure in Kruger National Park.
From April autumn will set in: winter is here and the temperatures will slowly start to cool down and become dryer.
Weather Forecast for Kruger National Park
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