Climate & Weather

The Waterberg’s climate is generally described as warm and temperate, with three distinct seasons.

The driest time is the middle of winter, which spans roughly May to July. While maximum temperatures at this time of year hover around a fairly balmy 22oC / 72oF, nights and early mornings can drop to just below 3 oC / 37oF and ground frosts are common. Dress in layers as mornings and early evenings can be very cold on the game-drive vehicle: a beanie, scarf, fingerless gloves and a hooded jacket are all recommended.

The winter months are often considered the best time of year for big game viewing in Welgevonden as the grass and savannah are shorter and less dense than in the wetter months, making the animals easier to spot. Game tends to cluster at the known remaining water sources, often making sightings easier to find.

From the beginning of August through until October, temperatures begin to rise steadily with mean daily maximum and minimum temperatures of around 27oC / 81oF and 9oC / 48oF respectively. These months remain predominantly dry, though you will get the occasional short-lived thunderstorm rolling in across the plains. Storms mostly arrive in the late afternoon and make for astounding photo opportunities. In addition, they wash the air clear of dust and bushfire smoke, making your photos crystal clear and colours more intense.

The annual wet season sets in from early November and runs through to April. Mean maximum temperatures for this time of year are teetering just below a hot and humid 30oC / 86oF and minimum temperatures rarely dropping below 15oC / 59oF. Rainfall peaks in December and January. These wetter months are the best time to enjoy the Waterberg’s incredible array of birdlife as migrants arrive from the cold northern hemisphere. In addition, the abundant grazing and plentiful water means plains game are most likely to drop their young now, making for some intense predator action.

In summer, always wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or cap. Take a waterproof jacket just in case it rains while you are out. Remember, the animals may take shelter in the rain but they’re still out there to find!