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March Weather Guide for The Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park March weather is the final stretch of summer, creating a dynamic mix of warm temperatures, occasional rains, and vibrant landscapes.

The park is alive with greenery, offering breathtaking scenery for visitors. However, the dense vegetation can sometimes make wildlife sightings a bit more challenging.

Temperature Trends in Kruger National Park March Weather

Days in March are typically warm, with temperatures reaching 32°C – 33°C (90°F – 92°F). Nights are considerably milder, hovering around 20°C – 22°C (68°F – 72°F). You can make the most of the tropical summer heat in the mornings and early evenings; they are ideal times for memorable Summer game drives.

Rainfall and Its Impact

March still sees some rainfall, though showers are usually brief. The park receives an average 51 mm (2 inches) of rain over approximately four days in the month. These showers often come in the afternoon or evening, bringing quick downpours that refresh the air. While rain enhances the park’s already stunning scenery, it can lead to muddy roads and heighten the adventure of exploring certain areas.

Daylight Hours and Safari Timing

Visitors will have around 12.2 hours of daylight to explore, with sunrise at approximately 5:55 AM and sunset around 6:09 PM. These long daylight hours allow for well-timed safari experiences, whether you prefer an early morning game drive or a late-afternoon excursion.

Kruger National Park March weather offers a unique and vibrant setting to explore one of Africa’s most iconic destinations, for those seeking a balance between comfortable temperatures and exceptional wildlife encounters.

How Kruger National Park March Weather Affects Safaris

  • Lush Vegetation and Wildlife Movement – The dense foliage provides ample cover for animals, making game drives more adventurous. However, experienced guides can help locate elusive species.
  • Predators in Action – Lions, leopards, and hyenas remain active, using the thick greenery for cover while hunting. Their vocal calls are most prominent during early mornings and evenings.
  • Birdwatching Highlights – With migratory birds still present, March is an exciting time for bird lovers. The European roller, woodland kingfisher, and African fish eagle are just a few of the striking species visible.

Kruger National Park Average Temperature by Month and How March Compares

When considering the Kruger National Park average temperature by month, March falls on the warmer side. Occasional showers keep the park refreshed. Compared to the drier months later in the year, March showcases a more vibrant and flourishing scenery, making it an appealing choice for visitors who appreciate a greener safari experience.

The Kruger National Park March weather creates a safari setting full of adventure, whether you seek predator sightings, dynamic birdlife, or stunning landscapes.

What to Pack for Kruger National Park March Weather

March brings warm days, occasional showers, and lush landscapes, making it essential to pack accordingly. The Kruger National Park March weather can range from 32°C (90°F) during the day to a more comfortable 20°C (68°F) at night. With some rain expected, having the right gear ensures a seamless experience.

Clothing and Essentials for March

  • Light, breathable clothing – With high temperatures, cotton or linen fabrics keep you cool.
  • Earth-tone outfits – Neutral shades like beige and olive help you stay unobtrusive on game drives.
  • Light rain jacket or poncho – March sees moderate rainfall, so be prepared for sudden showers.
  • Sun protection – A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential under the strong African sun.
  • Insect repellent – Since March’s humidity attracts mosquitoes, applying repellent is crucial.
  • Comfortable shoes – Opt for sturdy, closed shoes for both safaris and bush walks.

Photography Tips for Kruger National Park March Weather

The mix of greenery, dramatic skies, and abundant wildlife makes March a fantastic time for photography. However, Kruger National Park March weather can be unpredictable, so preparation is key.

  • Waterproof your gear – A rain cover and dry bag help protect your camera in case of sudden showers.
  • Golden hour advantage – The post-rain sunlight creates soft, beautiful lighting, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes.
  • Zoom lens necessity – With dense vegetation in March, a zoom lens helps photograph animals from a distance.

Is March a Good Time to Visit Kruger National Park?

For travelers who enjoy vibrant greenery and active birdlife, March is a rewarding time to explore. While spotting wildlife can be slightly more challenging due to thick vegetation, the park remains alive with breeding activity, especially among kudu and buffalo. The Kruger National Park average temperature by month shows March as one of the warmer periods, making early morning and late afternoon safaris the most comfortable.

Perks of Visiting in March

Plush and Dynamic Scenery – The summer rains leave the park covered in greenery, offering a stunning backdrop for photography and safari drives.

Balmy Temperatures – According to the Kruger National Park average temperature by month details, daily maximums have a high average, whereas nighttime temperatures are pleasant.

Outstanding Birdwatching – Migratory birds are still present, and the landscape attracts an abundant variety of species.

Wildlife Breeding Season – Animals like kudu and buffalo are more active, offering unique sightings of young ones.

Reduced Crowds – March delivers a more exclusive safari experience with fewer visitors in comparison to the peak season.

Drawbacks of Kruger National Park March Weather

Thick Vegetation – While the verdant scenery is mesmerizing, it can make spotting wildlife trickier. Opt for guided game drives with expert trackers for the best wildlife sightings.

Intermittent Rain Showers – March is the closing month of the rainy season with rainfall spread over several days. The occasional afternoon showers may sometimes affect outdoor plans.

Heightened Mosquito Activity – The warm temperatures and residual humidity result in increased mosquito activity. Carrying repellents is a must.

The Wildlife and Safari Experience in March

Wondering about the impact of Kruger National Park March weather on your wildlife spotting experience? Although the abundance of vegetation can make finding animals slightly tricky, the exhilaration of spotting wildlife in such a thriving environment is unparalleled.

Many animals, including the buffalo and kudu, are in their breeding season during this period, making wildlife viewing even more interesting. For the best views, opt for sunrise and sunset drives when the wildlife become more active during the cooler parts of the day.

If your preference tilts towards clearer landscapes and big game spotting, the drier months from May to October might be more up your alley. However, for an enchanting experience of Kruger in all its vibrant glory, March offers an unrivalled experience.

Ready to Embark on Your Unforgettable March Adventure?

With the Kruger National Park offering breath-taking vistas, abundant wildlife, and action-packed safaris, March presents a genuinely unique escape into nature. Embrace the warmth, lush surroundings, and dynamic birdlife that define this vibrant time of year. Whether you’re capturing rare bird species, enjoying the sights of playful young wildlife, or simply basking in the tranquillity of reduced crowds, Kruger National Park March weather guarantees an experience unlike any other.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away—plan your safari today! Reach out to the experts at Kruger Gate Hotel to tailor your trip and ensure you make the most out of your visit. Your African adventure awaits!

Guest Reviews

Great experience ever

Posted on 29/07/2025 by Google

Kruger Gate Hotel is a magical place for a safari adventure! Let me start by saying that because of all the services Kruger Gate Hotel offers, we were able to plan a perfect safari experience for our family. In fact, once I found Kruger Gate Hotel, the trip almost planned itself. Its airport transport service made getting to and from Skukuza Airport so simple. From there, our adventure began. We booked three private guided safaris through the hotel – a full day, a morning, and an afternoon safari –and each was amazing. Justice (of Kurt Safari) was our guide each day and had an amazing ability to spot animals, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, impalas, nyalas, waterbucks, wildebeests, warthogs, and hyenas, as well as the elusive big cats and rhinos. Just as amazing was the hotel itself – the perfect place for relaxing in between safaris. From its infinity pool one afternoon, we saw a herd of elephants, including baby elephants. Another day, there was a giraffe, and on our final day hippos in the distance. The hotel architecture was charming – a safari resort with all the modern amenities, and the staff was so welcoming. The rooms were spacious and comfortable. And the food was delicious – the best breakfast and dinner buffets I’ve ever experienced. Don’t miss the omelet station for breakfast, and the dinner selections (appetizer, main course, and dessert) were outstanding, all in a lovely outdoor setting. Remember to bring ear plugs because the baboons in the distance can make a sound that wakes you up. The trip of a lifetime!

Posted on 27/07/2025 by Google

I stayed at this hotel via nhlalala travel to join a two-days safari in Kruger National Park. It really faces Kruger National Park. It's a really wonderful hotel with a view of the Kruger grounds from the pool and terrace restaurant.
I was surprised that the hotel was cleaner and better equipped than I expected.
It took about 5.5 hours by car from Johannesburg airport.
The hotel room was spacious, had a bathtub, and was literally comfortable. Dinner was buffet style, and I was satisfied with the variety of dishes. There was also a show-like thing going on, which was very exciting. There was a barbecue? bonfire? so be careful after a shower as it smelled.
The next morning we left at 5:30, so they prepared a breakfast pack for us, which we were able to eat during the safari break.
It was a really wonderful hotel, and next time I would like to stay longer and enjoy the safari. I highly recommended it.

Posted on 25/07/2025 by Google

Hotel incrível, ao lado da entrada do parque, ótimo café da manhã, jantar, equipe super atenciosa, fomos muito bem tratados por todos funcionários. O passeio contratado foi ótimo. Recomendo e indico. Parabéns ao Hotel.

Posted on 23/07/2025 by Hotels.com

I would like to recommend the service of Mr. Excellent at the Pool bar.
He was so nice and helpful. We enjoyed every meal.

Posted on 27/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

My experience at this hotel was very good it was a nice hotel i stayed for 2 weeks at the hotel with my parents. There were some very nice people like Gibson, Karabo, Enoch, Enzo, Aleck, Freedom, Lucia, Dzunisani and Dion! Dion was verry good at driving and spotting he realy deserves it to be a ranger thats also he ‘s dream. The massage was also very good I had a Nice treatment with a manicure! So the hotel deserves 5 stars⭐️!

Posted on 27/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

Visited Kruger Gate Hotel for a big birthday, along with many family and friends. Firstly the resort is amazing in every aspect - watching a leopard, elephants and hyenas from the infinity pool blew us away. The rooms were all spacious and clean, we stayed in the Nkanyi suite which was beyond our wildest expectations- it comes with a private butler (Lawrence) who went out of his way to ensure the whole group had the most magical time. I can’t put into words how impressed we all were with him, he even helped arrange our activities in Cape Town (our next stop on the trip) and was always on hand to make everything smooth and enjoyable.
This visit exceeded all expectations, safari guide Dan was part comedian part animal guru and helped us find a leopard on 3 out of 3 trips as well as the rest of the big 5 and much more (including 12 lions feasting on a rhino)
All in all I can’t rate this hotel and team highly enough, but special mention to Lawrence who made this trip so memorable

Posted on 24/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

Kruger Gate Hotel is a magical place for a safari adventure! Let me start by saying that because of all the services Kruger Gate Hotel offers, we were able to plan a perfect safari experience for our family. In fact, once I found Kruger Gate Hotel, the trip almost planned itself. Its airport transport service made getting to and from Skukuza Airport so simple. From there, our adventure began. We booked three private guided safaris through the hotel – a full day, a morning, and an afternoon safari –and each was amazing. Justice (of Kurt Safari) was our guide each day and had an amazing ability to spot animals, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, impalas, nyalas, waterbucks, wildebeests, warthogs, and hyenas, as well as the elusive big cats and rhinos. Just as amazing was the hotel itself – the perfect place for relaxing in between safaris. From its infinity pool one afternoon, we saw a herd of elephants, including baby elephants. Another day, there was a giraffe, and on our final day hippos in the distance. The hotel architecture was charming – a safari resort with all the modern amenities, and the staff was so welcoming. The rooms were spacious and comfortable. And the food was delicious – the best breakfast and dinner buffets I’ve ever experienced. Don’t miss the omelet station for breakfast, and the dinner selections (appetizer, main course, and dessert) were outstanding, all in a lovely outdoor setting. Remember to bring ear plugs because the baboons in the distance can make a sound that wakes you up. The trip of a lifetime!

Posted on 27/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

Nydelig hotell med god service og frokost. Flott utsikt over elven, der kom en flokk med 8 giraffer oppover. Vakkert spa der elefantene kan ligge utenfor vinduet. Aper løper i trærne på hotellet. Fin safaritur fra hotellet. Anbefales.

Posted on 23/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

We really enjoyed our stay at the Kruger Gate Hotel. From the moment we arrived till the moment we left everything was perfect. The whole staff is very friendly and always helpful. Especially the atmosphere during dinner was magical.

Posted on 23/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

High level structure but something DA improve given the price paid there is... The led lights above the bed that do not go out and it seems day even at night, I had asked for support but no one arrived. The staff who veiledly help you with everything to get tips is annoying, especially on a hotel of this level.
Finally the internal safari decidedly lower than that with the park guides. However the overall experience is excellent.

Posted on 26/07/2025 by TripAdvisor

El hotel es una excelente opción para visitar el Parque Kruger. Ubicado a pocos metros de la Puerta Paul Kruger, es ideal para quienes visitan por primera vez el Parque. Sus instalaciones son impecables y tienen todas las comodidades. Mención aparte para los Safaris que se pueden agendar en el propio hotel.

Posted on 29/07/2025 by Booking.com

Jantar único.

Posted on 24/07/2025 by Booking.com

The location is really nice - bordering Kruger National Park on the river near the Kruger gate entrance where you get nice views of animals during the day especially. Good range of facilities, very nice breakfast and great supper\'s. The staff were really helpful and good. The rooms are not very special, but they are more than adequate. Overall we had a fantastic stay.

Posted on 28/07/2025 by Booking.com

Equipe muito atenciosa, principalmente os funcionarios do Guest Relations, Sarah e Simpewhee.
Hotel muito bem localizado, quarto limpo e bem espaçoso. De frente para o Kruger Park e de facil acesso vindo de Joanesburgo de carro. Estrada tambem muito boa.

Posted on 28/07/2025 by Booking.com

Food excellent, lovely hotel well located

Posted on 25/07/2025 by Booking.com

Great location with views of the river and the wandering animals

Posted on 25/07/2025 by Booking.com

La ubicación justo en la entrada del Kruger, la habitación deluxe era increíble y el desayuno y las cenas muy buenos.

Posted on 24/07/2025 by Booking.com

Tolle Lage und wunderschöne Umgebung samt tollen Ausblick

Posted on 23/07/2025 by Booking.com