Kruger National Park Weather in November
November marks the true beginning of Kruger’s wet summer. The rain arrives in earnest, painting the bush in vibrant green. The air becomes warm and humid, clouds billow over the plains, and life explodes across the savannah. Baby impalas drop, migratory birds arrive, and the entire ecosystem resets.
With Eugene Safaris, November safaris are about renewal, color, and motion—ideal for birders, photographers, and those seeking the lush side of Kruger.
November Weather Overview
Temperature
- Day: 30°C–34°C (86°F–93°F)
- Night: 18°C–22°C (64°F–72°F)
- Humidity: High and rising
Rainfall
Average: 80–120 mm
Rain mostly comes as short, heavy storms, often late in the day or overnight.
Conditions
Afternoon thunderstorms cool the air, settle the dust, and stimulate dramatic changes in wildlife behavior. Outside of storms, days are warm, bright, and vibrant.
Wildlife & Landscape in November
Green Season Begins
- Grass shoots up almost overnight
- Trees explode into leaf
- The bush regains its full color palette
While spotting can be a bit harder than in winter, the lush environment brings new behaviors and photo opportunities.
Baby Boom
- Impala lambing season begins mid-month
- Newborns appear in waves—along with wildebeest and zebra foals
- Predators are alert and active around vulnerable young
Migratory Bird Arrival
- Woodland Kingfishers call from every tree
- Cuckoos, rollers, bee-eaters, and swallows return
- Wetland birds flourish as pans fill: herons, crakes, jacanas, storks
Best Safari Activities in November
🧭 Wildlife Viewing
- Drives focus on mixed terrain—open ground and riverine cover
- Unpredictable animal behavior offers rewarding surprises
- Dynamic wildlife encounters are everywhere
📸 Photography
- Vibrant greens and dramatic storm clouds
- Action scenes—predator chases and baby animals
- Soft post-rain light perfect for dramatic compositions
🐦 Birdwatching
- Peak month for new bird arrivals
- Colorful, vocal species in breeding plumage
- Wetland birds flourish as pans fill
Safari with Eugene Safaris in November
- Early drives to catch animals and birds before storms
- Flexible afternoon drives—adjusted to follow weather patterns
- Avoid soggy routes; mix grassland, woodland, and river access
- Perfect for photographers, birders, and families in search of color
What to Pack for November
- Quick-dry clothing (lightweight and breathable)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection
- Sunhat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof camera protection
- Binoculars
- Comfortable closed shoes for wet or muddy areas
FAQs About Kruger National Park Weather in November
Is November a good time to visit Kruger?
Yes—if you love lush landscapes, dramatic skies, and baby animals, November is a dream. Sightings remain rewarding despite thicker bush.
Does it rain all the time?
No—rain usually falls in short, heavy afternoon storms, and then it clears. Most morning and late-afternoon drives are dry and productive.
What makes November special?
Impala lambing season, peak bird migration, dramatic predator behavior around newborn prey, and vibrant green scenery.
Are there mosquitoes?
Yes, activity increases after rain. Use repellent, wear long sleeves, and consider malaria prophylaxis if advised.
Is November good for photography?
Absolutely—contrast of green and dry, newborn animals, and storm-lit skies make for high-impact images.
Final Thoughts
November in Kruger National Park is dynamic, colorful, and alive. From baby impalas wobbling on new legs to thunderclouds rolling over the savannah, every moment is filled with motion, growth, and intensity. With Eugene Safaris, you’ll experience this seasonal renewal in private, immersive style—chasing storms, tracking migrations, and capturing unforgettable moments in the green season.