Gaborone in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Gaborone

32°C (89°F) High Temp

19°C (66°F) Low Temp

81 mm (3.2 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak rainfall season brings lush green landscapes and full water features - the Notwane River and city dams are at their most spectacular, perfect for photography and nature walks
Afternoon thunderstorms are dramatic but brief (20-30 minutes), creating impressive cloud formations and clearing the air for crisp evening temperatures around 19°C (66°F)
Tourist crowds are at annual lows - major attractions like the Banjul and Gaborone Game Reserve have minimal queues, and accommodation rates drop 20-30% from December peaks
Bird watching reaches its absolute peak with over 450 species present, including summer migrants like carmine bee-eaters and woodland kingfishers that aren't visible other months

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 60% of days between 2-5pm, potentially disrupting outdoor market visits and walking tours - indoor backup plans essential
High humidity levels make midday activities uncomfortable - temperatures feel closer to 38°C (100°F) during peak sun hours between 11am-3pm
Unpaved roads to some cultural villages become challenging after heavy rains, requiring 4WD vehicles and potentially canceling day trips to traditional settlements

Best Activities in February

Gaborone Game Reserve Wildlife Drives

February's rains create prime wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources and vegetation is lush. Morning drives (6-9am) offer comfortable temperatures of 22-25°C (72-77°F) and active wildlife before afternoon storms. The 5 km² (1.9 sq mile) reserve is uncrowded, allowing extended viewing time.

Booking Tip: Book morning slots 3-5 days ahead through your accommodation or licensed tour operators. Drives typically cost P350-500 ($26-37) per person. Look for operators with covered vehicles for weather protection. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Traditional Village Cultural Tours

February showcases rural Botswana at its greenest, with traditional farming activities in full swing. Villages like Gabane (22 km/14 miles from city center) offer real feels including traditional brewing and pottery making. Cooler morning temperatures make the 2-3 hour walking tours comfortable.

Booking Tip: Book through community tourism operators 5-7 days ahead, typically P200-400 ($15-30) per person including transport. Ensure vehicles are 4WD capable for post-rain road conditions. Morning departures (8am) recommended to avoid afternoon storms.

Kgale Hill Sunrise Hiking

The 1,287m (4,222ft) summit offers spectacular sunrise views over rain-washed landscapes. February's clear post-storm air provides visibility up to 50 km (31 miles). Early morning temperatures of 19-22°C (66-72°F) make the 90-minute ascent comfortable before daily heat builds.

Booking Tip: Join guided groups departing 5:30am for sunrise viewing, typically P150-250 ($11-19) including transport from hotels. Independent hikers should inform accommodation of plans and carry emergency water. Weather updates essential as trails become slippery after rain.

Craft Market and Shopping Tours

February rains bring fresh inventory to markets as rural artisans transport goods during dry morning hours. The Main Mall and Broadhurst areas offer covered shopping ideal for rainy afternoons. Traditional baskets, pottery, and textiles are most abundant after the summer crafting season.

Booking Tip: Plan market visits for 8-11am before afternoon storms. Guided shopping tours cost P100-200 ($7-15) per person and include cultural context. Covered markets like Gaborone West Shopping Centre provide rainy-day alternatives. Book cultural shopping experiences through hotel concierges.

Mokolodi Nature Reserve Day Trips

Located 12 km (7.5 miles) south of Gaborone, February offers excellent game viewing with resident rhinos, giraffes, and zebras gathering near water points. The 30 km² (11.6 sq mile) reserve features both open-vehicle and walking safari options perfect for the season's mild morning temperatures.

Booking Tip: Full-day trips typically cost P600-900 ($44-66) including meals and transport. Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators offering weather contingency plans. Morning game drives followed by afternoon cultural programs provide storm-weather alternatives.

Gaborone Dam Water Activities

February's rainfall fills the dam to optimal levels for boat trips and bird watching. Water temperatures reach 26°C (79°F), comfortable for short swimming breaks. The dam attracts over 100 bird species during summer, including fish eagles and kingfishers most active during cooler morning hours.

Booking Tip: Half-day boat trips cost P300-500 ($22-37) per person with morning departures recommended. Operators should provide covered boats and weather monitoring. Book 3-5 days ahead through waterfront lodges or certified marine operators.

February Events & Festivals

Mid February

Botswana Summer Bird Fair

Annual celebration of migratory bird species featuring guided walks, photography workshops, and traditional bird-related cultural performances. Local and international ornithologists lead specialized tours to prime viewing locations around Gaborone's wetlands and nature reserves.

Throughout February

National Arts Festival Preview Events

Pre-festival workshops and exhibitions showcase local artists preparing for the main April festival. Gallery openings, craft demonstrations, and cultural performances occur throughout the month in venues like Thapong Visual Arts Centre.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof jacket with hood - afternoon storms average 25mm (1 inch) in 30 minutes with strong winds

Quick-dry cotton or linen clothing - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable and sticky

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days due to altitude of 1,014m (3,327ft)

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - wet surfaces become slippery, especially around dam areas and nature trails

Light layers for temperature swings - mornings start at 19°C (66°F) and peak at 32°C (89°F) by noon

Compact umbrella for market visits - covered areas limited and storms can begin suddenly

Insect repellent with DEET - increased mosquito activity around water sources after rains

Waterproof phone case or bag - protect electronics during unexpected downpours and outdoor activities

Hat with chin strap - afternoon winds can reach 25 kph (15 mph) during thunderstorms

Backup indoor activities research - download offline maps and indoor attraction information for rainy day alternatives

Insider Knowledge

Local mechanics become busy during February rains - if renting a car, book from major companies with 24/7 roadside assistance and inspect tire tread carefully

Restaurants adjust hours during peak storm season (2-5pm) - many close temporarily during heavy downpours, so plan early lunch (11:30am-1pm) or late dinner (7pm+)

Government offices and banks often experience power outages during storms - conduct essential business like currency exchange before 1pm when infrastructure is most stable

Taxi and public transport prices increase 20-30% during heavy rains due to demand - negotiate fixed rates in advance or use hotel transport during storm periods

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking afternoon outdoor activities (2-5pm) without weather contingencies - 60% chance of thunderstorms during these hours makes inflexible bookings risky

Wearing white or light colors to markets and cultural sites - red dust mixed with rain creates staining that's difficult to remove from clothing

Planning tight schedules without buffer time - post-storm flooding can add 30-45 minutes to typical journey times between attractions