When to Eswatini
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is peak summer with hot, humid conditions and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape is lush and green, with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. This is part of the wet season with regular rainfall that typically clears quickly, leaving warm, humid evenings.
February
February continues the hot, wet summer pattern with high humidity and regular thunderstorms, usually in the afternoons. The countryside remains vibrant and green, ideal for nature photography. Temperatures stay consistently warm throughout the month with occasional cooler periods after storms.
March
March marks the transition from summer to autumn with gradually decreasing rainfall. Temperatures remain warm but become slightly more comfortable as humidity begins to drop. The landscape is still lush, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities before the dry season begins.
April
April brings pleasant autumn weather with warm days, cooler nights, and significantly reduced rainfall. This is an excellent shoulder season month with comfortable temperatures for all activities. The landscape begins its transition from green to golden hues, and wildlife congregates around water sources.
May
May ushers in the dry winter season with clear, sunny days and cool to cold nights. Daytime temperatures are pleasant for hiking and outdoor activities, though mornings can be chilly. This is prime time for wildlife viewing as animals gather at waterholes, and the dry conditions make game spotting easier.
June
June is mid-winter with crisp, cold mornings and warm, sunny afternoons under clear blue skies. Nights can be quite cold, especially in highland areas, occasionally approaching freezing. This is excellent weather for hiking and cultural experiences, with minimal rainfall and excellent visibility for photography.
July
July is the coldest and driest month of the year with frosty mornings in highland areas and warm, sunny days. The dry conditions are perfect for all outdoor activities, though warm layers are essential for early mornings. Wildlife viewing is exceptional as vegetation is sparse and animals are easily spotted.
August
August remains dry and cool with gradually warming temperatures as spring approaches. This month features the famous Umhlanga Reed Dance ceremony, attracting cultural enthusiasts. Clear skies and comfortable daytime temperatures make it ideal for hiking, with cold mornings still requiring warm clothing.
September
September marks the transition to spring with warming temperatures and occasional light showers toward month's end. Days are pleasantly warm and perfect for all activities, while nights remain cool. The landscape begins to green up with early rains, and this is an excellent time for hiking before the heat of summer.
October
October brings spring weather with increasing temperatures and the beginning of the wet season toward month's end. Days are warm to hot, and the first thunderstorms of the season bring relief and transform the landscape. This shoulder season month offers good value with improving conditions for wildlife viewing.
November
November is early summer with hot days, increasing humidity, and more frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape becomes lush and green, and migratory birds return. While rainfall increases, storms typically pass quickly, leaving pleasant evenings. This is a good time for budget travelers to visit.
December
December is full summer with hot, humid conditions and regular afternoon thunderstorms. The Incwala ceremony, Eswatini's most sacred cultural event, typically occurs this month. Despite the heat and rain, the festive atmosphere and lush scenery attract visitors, though it's important to plan around afternoon storms.