Madikwe Safari Weather Guide
Covering over 75 000 hectares, Madikwe Game Reserve protects some of South Africa’s most diverse wildlife species. Home to healthy elephant populations as well as lions and leopards, and even endangered wild dogs, Madikwe is a unique safari destination where you can see all of the Big 5 as well as less common species like cheetah, brown hyena and more.
Take a look at our Madikwe weather guide for an idea of what to expect when planning your safari.
Seasons in North-West Province, South Africa
Tuningi Safari Lodge is located in Madikwe Game Reserve in North-West Province, South Africa. The area is semi-arid as it sits on the edge of the Kalahari, over the Botswana border.
The winter months fall between May and August, summer is between October and March. September can be considered a short Spring and April a short Autumn. The winters are generally cold and dry, while summers are hot and rainy.
Green Season in Madikwe Game Reserve | November to April
The ‘green season’, from November to April, is characterised by lush green bushveld and warm temperatures. Chances of seeing newborn animals is high and migrating bird species are plentiful during this time of year.
If you plan on combining your safari with a trip to Cape Town during your holiday to South Africa, this is also a great time of year to do so.
Dry Season in Madikwe Game Reserve | May to October
The dry season falls between May to October.
This is considered the best time of year for wildlife viewing as the bushveld thins out as rains subside and more animals congregate around the water holes, making it easier to spot wildlife.
The best time to visit Madikwe Game Reserve
The best time to visit Tuningi Safari Lodge ultimately depends on your personal preferences.
If you love birding, it might be best to visit in the green season when the birdlife is at its best. If you are interested in seeing the Big 5, the dry winter months are probably the best time to visit for top-tier game viewing.
What to pack?
Whatever time of year you decide to visit Tuningi Safari Lodge, be sure to pack light comfortable clothing that you can layer up and take off as the temperature in the day changes.
Be sure to pack sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat all year round – the African sun is dangerous, even in the cold winter months.
In winter, be sure to pack extra warm layers for the early morning game drive and evenings. The nights can be bitterly cold as we are situated close to the Kalahari, but the days generally warm up to be lovely and sunny and cloudless.
In summer, it’s a good idea to have a waterproof rain jacket handy in case you are caught in an afternoon thunderstorm mid-game drive. Waterproof ponchos are provided in our vehicles when rain is predicted.
For more advice or information, get in touch with our friendly reservations team via email at book@tuningi.com or fill in our contact form here.
We look forward to helping you plan your ultimate South Africa safari to Tuningi Safari Lodge.
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