Any time of year is a good time to visit Bushriver Lodge, as each season has its own advantages.

Spring and summer (Rainy Season)

The subtropical climate has hot rainy summers starting in October and ending around March. Summers are hot and humid with afternoon showers and thunderstorms. The summer rains transform the arid farm into a lush flowering paradise, but the increased foliage does make animals harder to see. Bird watching safaris at this time of year are excellent. November and December are the calving months, this is a fantastic time for a safari, you will see lots of young animals, but remember, at this time the animals are very protective of their young, so keep a safe distance between yourself and the larger animals which have calves.

Spring (Sept - Nov)

• Average Minimum 20°C / 68°F
• Average Maximum 31°C / 87°F

Summer (Dec - Feb)

• Average Minimum 22°C / 71°F
• Average Maximum 35°C / 95°F

Autumn and winter (Dry Season)

The winter months from April to September are extremely pleasant with warm dry days and cold nights. The dry winter season is the ideal time to visit the Bushriver Lodge. The days are pleasant and warm, however the early mornings and evenings are cold. Game viewing is rewarding during the winter months as the vegetation is sparse and animals congregate around the waterholes, hence they are easier to find.

Autumn (March to May)

• Average Minimum 19°C / 66°F
• Average Maximum 28°C / 82°F

Winter (June - Aug)

• Average Minimum 12°C / 53°F
• Average Maximum 25°C / 77°F

Malaria

There is malaria in the area although the risk is usually relatively low, especially in dry seasons when water is scarce. Most mosquitoes do not carry malaria so being bitten does not mean one will contract the illness. However, anti-malarials are recommended for visitors, but even prophylaxis is not 100% foolproof. The best is to avoid being bitten by covering exposed skin, using mosquito repellent and burning mosquito coils, (especially between dusk and dawn – when mosquitos are most active). The normal incubation period for malaria is 7-14 days but may be longer if one is semi immune or has taken prophylaxis. A typical malaria attack includes headache, periodic episode of sequential chills, fever and sweating. Associated symptoms may include fatigue, dizziness, muscle and joint pains, weakness, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. If in doubt, seek medical help immediately

Rainfall

Hoedspruit ’s average yearly rainfall is just 513mm There are around 25 thunderstorms in a the year, with brief periods of heavy rain accompanied by spectacular lightning. After the rain, the sun will come quickly and the weather is fine again.

During the summer the surroundings are colored brown and yellow, but when the rain fall it transforms into a lush green paradise.