The climate of Ruaha National Park
Characterized by a Subtropical steppe climate as per the Köppen classification (BSh),
Ruaha National Park, located in
Tanzania, displays warm temperatures throughout the year, coupled with variations in rainfall amount. The range of monthly average high temperatures hovers from a minimum of 27°C (80.6°F) to a peak of 32°C (89.6°F). The minimum temperature experiences a similar pattern, fluctuating between 14°C (57.2°F) to 20°C (68°F) over the year.
Throughout the entire year, rainfall is not uniformly distributed. The rainy season, which occurs in the beginning months of the year, is characterized by a substantial amount of rainfall, ranging from 103mm (4.06") to 149mm (5.87"), and a considerable number of rain days, from 13 to 19 days. This phase transitions into an arid period with no rainfall, lasting from
June to
September.
Daylight hours remain somewhat stable, spreading from 11.7 hours to 12.6 hours, while the duration of sunshine fluctuates from 6 to 10 hours. Ultraviolet (UV) Index values are noticeably high at a level of 10 to 12, indicating a potential risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure.
The best time to visit Ruaha National Park
Considering the climatic patterns of
Ruaha National Park, the most suitable time to visit would be in the dry months of
June through
September. During these months, precipitation is at its lowest, with virtually no rainfall coupled with slightly cooler temperatures, fluctuating between 15°C (59°F) and 28°C (82.4°F). Moreover, an abundance of sunshine is received, with an average of approximately 10 hours per day, enhancing visibility for wildlife spotting.
The worst time to visit Ruaha National Park
In contrast, the months of
January,
February, and
March might not be the most favourable for a visit due to the high amount of rainfall. During these months, rainfall ranges from 123mm (4.84") to 149mm (5.87"). Alongside, the number of days with rainfall crosses 17, making it challenging to navigate the area.
Spring weather in Ruaha National Park
Spring in the park, which spans the months of
March,
April, and
May, begins with substantial rainfall of 133mm (5.24"), reducing progressively to 17mm (0.67") by May. Concurrently, the number of days with precipitation drops from 19 to 4 days. Temperatures start descending from a high of 29°C (84.2°F) to a moderate 28°C (82.4°F), and a low of 19°C (66.2°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). The period experiences slightly prolonged daylight hours, reaching 11.8 hours, and increased sunshine, approximately 8 hours.
Summer weather in Ruaha National Park
From
June to
August, summer in
Ruaha National Park comes with no rainfall, accompanied by a decrease in temperature. Daytime temperatures range from 27°C (80.6°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), while nighttime temperatures are relatively cooler, varying from 14°C (57.2°F) to 15°C (59°F). This season receives the maximum amount of daylight, roughly between 11.7 hours and 11.9 hours, and the sunniest days, with approximately 10 hours of sunshine.
Autumn weather in Ruaha National Park
The autumn season, lasting from
September to
November, witnesses a gradual increase in temperatures, with highs scaling from 30°C (86°F) to 32°C (89.6°F) and lows from 16°C (60.8°F) to 19°C (66.2°F). The period also marks the start of the short rainy season in November, experiencing 44mm (1.73") of precipitation and 7 rain days. The amount of sunlight continues to be on the higher side, approximately 10 hours, with 12.1 hours to 12.5 hours of daylight.
Winter weather in Ruaha National Park
The
December through
February winter months show increased temperatures, both highs spanning from 29°C (84.2°F) to 30°C (86°F) and lows between 19°C (66.2°F) to 20°C (68°F). This season records the heaviest rainfall, escalating to a maximum of 149mm (5.87") in December, with the number of rain days being the highest, reaching 19 by the end of the year. The daylight duration slightly decreases to 12.3 hours, and sunshine duration drops to 7 hours in February, marking the end of the winter season.
Weather in January
The weather in
January around
Ruaha National Park,
Tanzania, exhibits tropical characteristics tied to its geographical location. Prolific rainfall enhances the otherwise warm environment, marking the peak of the wet season with 149mm (5.87") of precipitation recorded.
Weather in January »Weather in February
The weather sees a subtle shift in
February. A decrease in rainfall from 149mm (5.87") to 123mm (4.84") signals the wet season's gradual dissipation. Days filled with warm sunshine and temperate nights cater to both day and evening activities throughout the park.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March weather in
Tanzania continues to carry vestiges of the wet season, with a slight increase in precipitation from
February. An average rainfall of 133mm (5.24")intermingles with consistent daylight hours, drawing dazzling landscapes across the vast expanses of the park.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April weather observes a significant shift in the climatic pattern. The decrease in rainfall from 133mm (5.24") to 103mm (4.06") signals the end of the wet season, blanketing the park under clear skies. The resulted variation provides a dry and amicable atmosphere for park explorations.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May signals the onset of the dry period in Ruaha, marked by a decrease in rainfall to 17mm (0.67"). The warm sunshine adorning the national park permits longer expeditions for wildlife enthusiasts. Dry conditions foster a thriving environment for wildlife observation.
Weather in May » Weather in June
Weather in
June witnesses a notable shift in climate with barely 1mm (0.04") of recorded rainfall. Dry weather prevails and landscapes become a granary of wildlife, drawing attention from photographers and tourists. As the park dives deep into the dry season, visibility improves due to sparse vegetation.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
A distinct dry month,
July experiences no rainfall, reflecting a typical tropical winter month. The low rainfall encourages greater wildlife visibility, ascending the park's tourism value. In the heart of the winter season, the park remains abuzz with healthy daylight hours and ample sunshine.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August sustains the trend from
July, with no rain recorded. The park's scenic beauty stands bold under the bright sunshine, augmented by lengthy daylight hours. Seasonal shifts in the park remain subtle and gradually prepare for the approaching wet season.
Weather in August » Weather in September
The dry spell continues in
September with no observed rainfall. The dominance of bright sunshine renders the vast landscapes aesthetically pleasing, attracting tourists for Sultry days and cool evenings. Rich and diversified wildlife make the most of the sun-drenched landscapes.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
The dry spell breaks in
October with the return of rainfall, amounting to 7mm (0.28"). The oncoming rainy season breathes life into the park's landscapes, as they start embracing a greener shade. Rain showers sporadically punctuate the warm days, adding a refreshed feeling to the atmosphere.
Weather in October »Weather in November
The weather in
November establishes the onset of the rainy season. Rainfall rises distinctly from 7mm (0.28") to 44mm (1.73"). This shift transforms the park into a green oasis, home to a variety of wild creatures. With an increase in rainfall, vegetation begins to bloom and wildflowers start embellishing the terrain.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December witnesses a significant increase in rainfall from
November, marking 149mm (5.87"). The month firmly falls under the wet season's sway and showcases vivid fauna and flora. Though rainfall in December mirrors that in
January, reduced daylight hours and less harsh UV radiation distinguish this month.
Weather in December »