January is outside the preferred season for Okavango Delta; most visitors choose July to October.
Weather in Okavango Delta in January
Average highs in January are around 33°C, dropping to about 21°C at night. This is the rainy season, so expect frequent showers and occasionally harder roads.
What happens in January
Green season: afternoon rains, newborn animals and abundant birds, with lower rates at many camps.
Experience quality this month is 3 out of 5, and visitor levels are quiet. The best period overall is July to October.
What to pack
- light cotton clothing, a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water
- a rain jacket and a dry bag for your camera
- insect repellent and long sleeves for the evening
- binoculars for distant wildlife
Okavango Delta through the year
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| February | 21–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| March | 20–32 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| April | 16–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| May | 12–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| June | 9–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| July | 9–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| August | 12–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| September | 16–34 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 20–36 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| November | 21–35 | some rain | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| December | 21–34 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | moderate |
Other good choices in January
- Bwindi Uganda
- Ngorongoro Tanzania
- Serengeti Tanzania
- Volcanoes Rwanda
- Lake Nakuru Kenya
- Murchison Falls Uganda
Okavango Delta in DecemberBest safaris in JanuaryOkavango Delta in February
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Frequently asked questions
Is January a good time to visit Okavango Delta?
January is outside the preferred season for Okavango Delta; most visitors choose July to October.
What is the weather like in Okavango Delta in January?
Highs around 33°C, rainy season.
Is Okavango Delta busy in January?
Visitor levels in January are quiet.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Okavango Delta · UNESCO World Heritage Centre - Okavango Delta · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Maun · Weather Spark - Maun
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.
