December to March is the rainy season during which there are spectacular storms off Lake Malawi and the escarpment. Temperatures are typically hot and the humidity peaks during January and February. The bush is a lot thicker at this time, and as a result, it can be difficult to spot game. However, Nkhotakota comes to life with many plants flowering over this period. Most of the mammals have young, providing some lovely game viewing, and migratory birds move through the area. The turbulent flow of the rivers in the park provides a mesmerising spectacle for those who just want to relax in the beautiful setting.
The rains come to an end in April, and by May, temperatures are cool in the morning, particularly along the rivers and in higher areas of the reserve. During this time of year, be sure to bring along some warm clothes. The vegetation is still lush and many species of animal are active all day. This is the perfect time of year to go up Chipata Mountain as the temperatures are cool and the views are at their best until late June.
This is the hottest time of the year in Malawi weather and many visitors choose to combine time in the park with visits to Lake Malawi. This time of year provides some of the best game viewings as the vegetation is thin and mammals are drawn to water points in the core game viewing areas.
