January is outside the preferred season for Kruger; most visitors choose July to September.
Weather in Kruger 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
Summer rainy season: hot with afternoon storms, newborn antelope and migrant birds, but dense vegetation.
Camps and roads are busiest during South African school holidays; book early.
Experience quality this month is 3 out of 5, and visitor levels are busy. The best period overall is July to September.
What to pack
- light cotton clothing, a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water
- a rain jacket and a dry bag for your camera
- binoculars for distant wildlife
Kruger through the year
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | busy |
| February | 21–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| March | 19–32 | some rain | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| April | 16–31 | some rain | ★★★★★ | busy |
| May | 11–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| June | 6–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| July | 6–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| August | 9–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| September | 14–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 17–32 | some rain | ★★★★★ | busy |
| November | 19–33 | some rain | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| December | 20–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | peak season |
Other good choices in January
- Bwindi Uganda
- Ngorongoro Tanzania
- Serengeti Tanzania
- Volcanoes Rwanda
- Lake Nakuru Kenya
- Murchison Falls Uganda
Kruger in DecemberBest safaris in JanuaryKruger in February
Frequently asked questions
Is January a good time to visit Kruger?
January is outside the preferred season for Kruger; most visitors choose July to September.
What is the weather like in Kruger in January?
Highs around 33°C, rainy season.
Is Kruger busy in January?
Visitor levels in January are busy.
Sources: SANParks - Kruger National Park · Britannica - Kruger National Park · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Skukuza
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.