Botswana in March: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Okavango Delta & Panhandle (Northwest)

March is often the wettest month and the landscape in and around Moremi and Chief’s Island becomes intensely green; afternoon thunderstorms remain regular but are shorter and less predictable. The Delta still hasn’t necessarily felt the full Angolan flood, so water levels in some channels may not be high enough for deep mokoro trips everywhere-seasonal rainfall can raise local water levels though. Travellers should plan for sticky heat, lots of mosquitoes, and the possibility of flights being delayed by thunderstorms.

Chobe Riverfront, Linyanti & Savuti (Far North)

March keeps temperatures high and storms frequent; Chobe National Park’s riverside floodplains are thick with vegetation and smaller pools attract a wide variety of waterbirds. The Linyanti area can be wet underfoot, so vehicle movements in remote concessions can be slow and 4x4 access is essential. Pack lightweight rain gear, expect some logistical delays, and enjoy the avian abundance if you don’t mind the humidity.

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

March often marks the end of the heavy rains in the pans region; grasses are tall and game is dispersed across the new floodgrass, making predator sightings less reliable than in the dry season. The Nxai Pan acacia islands will be verdant, and seasonal zebra or wildebeest movements-when they occur-are easier to spot from elevated termite mounds. Travelers should expect muddy access in outlying areas and bring gaiters or waterproof footwear.

Central Kalahari (CKGR and Surrounds)

March often still carries scattered storms, but rainfall tends to taper as the month progresses; the Kalahari’s huge skies and turning grasses offer excellent landscape photography despite the heat. Roads begin to firm in places but remain soft in deeper sand tracks; many lodges remain open with fewer visitors and a quieter pace. Bring sun protection and light layers for variable afternoons and warm nights if fires are used at camps.

Southern Kalahari & Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (Southwest)

March sees some reduction in the peak heat and occasional rains still arrive, turning ephemeral pans green in patches; predator sightings can be rewarding as prey follows new growth. Roads start firming intermittently, but heavy localized showers may still disrupt long drives. Travellers should plan for hot days, carry extra water, and book transfers with operators used to desert conditions.

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

March often has some of the wettest weather across the southeast: frequent storms, rising river levels and lush roadside vegetation are common. Palapye and surrounding rural highways can be affected by flooded culverts after heavy cells, so travellers should allow extra transit time. For urban stays, air conditioning and mosquito precautions are wise; for rural trips check that lodges run normal transfer services.