Botswana in January: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Okavango Delta & Panhandle (Northwest)

Mid-summer humidity and hard, daily thunderstorms dominate the Delta in January; Maun and the Panhandle are hot and muggy, with heavy afternoon storms that can close light aircraft and make gravel tracks slushy. Early rains green the floodplain locally, but the great Angolan flood that turns the Delta into a mosaic of channels is still moving downstream and often hasn’t yet peaked here. For a traveller that means high mosquitoes, frequent cancellations on small charter flights, and lodges busy with birders and photographers packing mosquito repellent and lightweight, quick-drying clothing.

Chobe Riverfront, Linyanti & Savuti (Far North)

January’s heat and high humidity make the Chobe River a refuge for wildlife but also a mosquito hotspot; Kasane sees frequent afternoon storms that can swell feeder rivers and create dramatic sunsets over the floodplain. Boat cruises on the Chobe River still run but can be disrupted by lightning and rough water during squalls; big elephant herds are widespread but more dispersed than in the dry months. Travellers should bring insect repellent, expect high humidity, and allow flexibility for river transfers.

Makgadikgadi Pans & Nxai Pan (Salt Pans and Surrounding Plains)

January leaves the pans subdued and often with shallow, ephemeral pools if rains have been heavy; the low-lying Sua and Nwetwe pans near Kubu Island may hold water and attract waterbirds. Roads to lodges around Gweta can be wet and corrugated, and guided drives require dirt-road experience-expect helicopter or long 4x4 transfers to be affected by storms. Travellers should pack waterproof boots and insect repellent if visiting this time, and enjoy the early-season green flush and abundant birdlife.

Central Kalahari (CKGR and Surrounds)

January brings intense heat and convective storms to the Central Kalahari; the reserve’s pans and ephemeral channels swell briefly, producing sudden greening and a flush of bird and insect life. Roads become challenging and long-distance drives between camps can be slowed by soft sand; if you plan to self-drive, ensure you have recovery gear and up-to-date local advisories. Travelling parties will need mosquito protection and flexible schedules because charter flights and remote camps can be affected by isolated downpours.

Southern Kalahari & Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (Southwest)

January is hot across the Kgalagadi area with scattered summer storms that are usually brief but can be intense; the dry riverbeds at Twee Rivieren and Mata-Mata may hold temporary pools after heavy rain. Wildlife is widespread but often solitary-sightings of large raptors and black-maned lions can occur, though tracks disperse after rain. Travellers should be ready for long distances between services, carry extra water, and expect dusty conditions between showers.

Southeast Lowveld & Urban Areas (Gaborone, Francistown, Palapye and Surrounds)

January features hot, humid days and regular afternoon thunderstorms in Gaborone and the southeastern lowveld; flashier rains can cause short-lived urban flooding and patchy road closures. Francistown to Palapye also experiences the wet-season rhythms, with greenery returning and river levels rising-visitors should budget extra travel time after heavy storms. For city travelers pack a lightweight raincoat, umbrella, and insect repellent, and expect higher indoor humidity in accommodations.