Mapungubwe National Park

Weather & Climate

Mapungubwe Safaris

Expert

By Philip Briggs

Philip is author of the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Climate Chart Mapungubwe National Park – 511-614m / 1,677-2,014ft

The climate in Mapungubwe National Park is semi-arid with annual rainfall of around 350mm/12in. Rainfall is highly variable but falls entirely during the summer months from October to April. On average, there are 10 rainy days per year, and extended periods of less than average rainfall occur. In summer, peak temperatures rise to 45°C/113°F. Winters are mild.

Winter –May to September

Winter is a time of very little (if any) rain or humidity and temperatures are fairly mild. It is much less oppressive than during the summer months. Days are sunny with virtually no clouds. It is a pleasant time of year.

May – A cooling trend develops as summer comes to an end. Average temperatures are mild at around 10°C/50°F in the morning and 27°C/81° in the afternoon.
June, July & August – Chilly mornings are typical during the coldest months of the year. The nighttime temperature routinely drops to about 9°C/48°F, from the average daily high of 24°C/75°F.
September – The slowly climbing temperatures of September signal the coming of spring. Afternoon temperatures are around 28°C/82°F, up from a morning average of 15°C/59°F.

Summer –October to April

The heat of summer can be overwhelming, and it is made worse by the fact that rain is rare and somewhat sporadic. When it does rain, it is a very welcome break and does a great deal to settle the dust.

October & November – The first rains will come as a relief after months of dry heat. Temperatures are between 19°C/66°F in the morning and 32°C/90°F in the afternoon.
December, January & February – This is an extremely hot time of year. The average temperature in the afternoon is 35°C/95°F, but peak temperatures may rise to 45°C/113°F or higher. Early morning is the nicest time of day with temperatures around 19°C/66°F.
March & April – It cools down, and temperatures are a bit milder at 33°C/91°F in the afternoon. Mornings are still pleasant at 15°C/59°F. The last rain of the season can be expected, but it is mostly dry.