Southern Africa in Sept/Oct.
 

My wife and I are considering a safari trip to Botswana and South Africa in late September/early October. Has anyone gone during this time who could share their thoughts on the weather this time of the year? In addition, are there a lot bugs flying around this time of the year?

Jim, <BR>we did Botswana in late September, peak season, weather was fantastic, no rain, hot days, warm nights (camping). No bugs, even in Okavango.. still pack the DEET though. Of course with no rain, it's very dusty so protect camera gear with plastic. Also, open safari wagons can be a bit chilly at speed on those early morning safaris before the morning sun kicks in <BR>Cheers <BR>Graul

Jim, <BR>we did Botswana in late September, peak season, weather was fantastic, no rain, hot days, warm nights (camping). No bugs, even in Okavango.. still pack the DEET though. Of course with no rain, it's very dusty so protect camera gear with plastic. Also, open safari wagons can be a bit chilly at speed on those early morning safaris before the morning sun kicks in <BR>Cheers <BR>Graul

We were in Botswana in early September, early mornings were about 8 C, but during the day it would get up to high 30's. I found it very comfortable for sleeping. By October, it will probably be unbearable. Very, very dry, bring lots of skin moisturizer. We camped and never really had problem with bugs, but always have DEET with you, just in case.

In the safari camps in Botswana, they call October the "suicide" month because it gets so hot. We were there in mid-September and, while it was hot, it was no unbearable. A tip: we found the wet T-shirt bit a comfort during the afternoons. Bugs were not a problem but carrying a spray is a very good idea. It also can be quite cool in the mornings. Our guide in the Savuti provided blankets in the vehicles but that really wasn't enough.

<BR>In South Africa it can be chilly in the morning and evening and nice during the day depending on the area you visit. Can be rainy also - but a nice time of the year to visit otherwise it can be very hot.