Summer months in South Africa extend from October to March and during this time summer rainfall is experienced. The area receives about 550mm of rain every year. Afternoons are often characterised by thunderstorms which can last up to an hour or so, followed by clear skies. Come rain or shine, game drives are never cancelled because of the weather and we supply rain ponchos for use on game drives. All four lodges are supplied with umbrellas for guests to make use of.

Summers are warm to extremely hot and daytime temperatures can reach highs of up to 42°C (108°F). Early mornings (and sometimes the evenings) can be cooler and reach lows of 20°C (68°F) so remember to pack a light jacket and warm cap (especially for safari drives). Spring and autumn are more temperate seasons with less variance between day and night temperatures and generally range between 12°C (54°F) and 28°C (82°F).

Keep in mind …
By noon, temperatures are hot and are suited to cool, short-sleeve shirts and shorts/bermudas – light cotton fabric is best. You won’t need much more than a bathing suit or your swimming trunks for lying around the pool and cooling off. Swimming towels are provided and umbrellas are set up around the pool area to provide maximum protection.

The African heat is intense and the sun’s rays are harsh so always wear a high-protection factor sunblock, along with lip balm and sunglasses. Insect repellent will keep creepy crawlies at bay but game-drive vehicles do carry repellent for your use.

Kapama is located in the Lowveld area of South Africa where the winter months run from May to July. The coldest period is from the end of June through to the end of July. Daytime temperatures can reach highs of up to 26°C (79°F) and early-morning and night-time lows of about 8°C (46°F).

Fleece blankets are provided on the vehicles during game drives. While the winter days can be warm, don’t forget to pack a thick jacket, scarf and cap or beanie – along with closed shoes and socks. Wearing gloves in Africa may not be something you thought of but temperatures can drop dramatically and having your hands warm will make that game drive a much more enjoyable experience. And don’t forget that nice fluffy fleece to keep you cosy and snug.

Should you forget anything at home, we’ve got you covered with luxurious Kapama-branded attire available to purchase in our curio shops at all four lodges. All shops stock a wide range of caps, hats, jackets, scarves and winter wear to suit all tastes.

What should I wear during my safari stay?
Pack your neutral and light-coloured clothing so you blend in better with the surrounding environment. Khaki, beige, brown and green draws the least amount of attention and distraction when out on game drives. Darker and brighter colours can attract unwanted mosquitoes and insects.

Is Kapama a malaria area?
Because Kapama is situated in a low-risk malaria area taking malaria tablets is not necessary but chat with your local doctor about any medication to take as a safety precaution. Pop a pair of comfortable walking shoes in for going on a bush walk and a pair of slip-on shoes or sandals to wear around the lodge or to meals. Meals are informal so no formal dresses or suits are required.

Don’t forget …
Bring along a spare pair of your prescription spectacles or contact lenses if yours are mislaid or broken. Eagle eyes are mandatory for good game-spotting! Ensure that you have sufficient contact lens-cleaning lotion as the dusty outdoor environment can mean lenses need to be cleaned more frequently.

What to plug in where
Electricity at Kapama is on a 220-volt alternating current system. Wall-plug units take a round two-prong European plug but it is advisable to bring the necessary converter or adapter from your home country to charge cameras, laptops and phones. International adapters are available for purchase at all of the lodges. For those with cameras, remember to pack a telephoto lens and a video camera, along with all the necessary plugs, chargers and memory cards. A pair of binoculars can make for an enhanced game-spotting experience.

Is there Wi-Fi at Kapama?
All the lodges are set up with dedicated Wi-Fi spots.
There is a cellphone signal within the reserve but we do advise you to leave mobile phones behind when going on a game drive as they are an unnecessary disturbance to the wildlife and other guests. If you are taking photos with your cellphone camera, set it to aeroplane mode. Local cellphone cards are available to purchase at South African international airports.

Miscellaneous
All rooms are fully stocked with the well-loved South African brand, Charlotte Rhys’s range of soap, shampoo and body lotion, but don’t forget to bring along your toiletries. The small shop at each lodge stocks basic travel accessories for those last-minute things you might have left behind.

A reasonably priced laundry service is available to all guests.

Summer is from October to March. Daytime temperatures can reach highs of up to 42°C and lows of 20°C or 108°F – 68°F. It’s during this season when most rain falls in this area, which receives about 550 mm of rain annually.

The colder winter months of May, June and July experience daytime highs of around 26°C and night-time lows of about 8°C  or 79°F – 46°F.

Spring and autumn are more temperate seasons with less variance between day and night temperatures and generally range between 12°C and 28°C or 54°F – 82°F.

Game viewing, however, is excellent throughout the year at Kapama.