March is a transitional and rewarding month to visit Kruger National Park. As the summer rainfall season gradually gives way to drier autumn conditions, the park remains lush and green while wildlife activity stays high. Following the exceptional rainfall and flooding in January, widely covered on this blog, March visitors will encounter a park in recovery - resilient, wildlife-rich, and increasingly accessible.
Editor’s note:
The exceptional rainfall and flooding experienced in January 2026 were covered in detail on umhambi.blogspot.com as part of our seasonal climate and travel impact reporting for southern Africa. Travellers planning visits in late summer and early autumn are encouraged to review those updates alongside current SANParks advisories.
Weather & landscape
March brings warm to hot daytime temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-20s to low-30s °C, with cooler mornings and evenings that are ideal for game drives. Humidity levels are noticeably lower than in January and February, improving overall travel comfort.
Rainfall decreases as the month progresses, although occasional showers may still occur, particularly early in March. Thanks to the generous summer rains, Kruger National Park's landscapes remain vividly green, with flowing rivers, full dams, and productive grazing areas. This creates excellent photographic conditions and supports a wide distribution of wildlife.
January Floods and Ongoing Recovery
As reported earlier on this blog, January 2026 saw widespread flooding across northeastern South Africa, including Kruger National Park and its surrounding regions. Prolonged heavy rainfall led to overflowing rivers, damaged roads and bridges, and temporary closures of certain camps and access routes.
By March, floodwaters have largely receded, but infrastructure repairs are still ongoing, particularly in low-lying areas and parts of northern Kruger National Park. Visitors may encounter temporary road closures or detours, making advance planning and daily updates an important part of any March itinerary.
Fauna
Wildlife viewing in March remains rewarding and diverse:
- The Big Five are present throughout the park, with elephants and buffalo frequently seen near rivers and watercourses.
- Plains game such as impala, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, and kudu benefit from abundant grazing created by the summer rains.
- Birdlife is outstanding, with resident species breeding actively and many migratory birds still present, making March one of the most productive months for birdwatching.
While denser vegetation can sometimes make animals harder to spot at a distance, overall wildlife density remains high and sightings are frequent.
Animal Behaviour & Sightings
Seasonal conditions strongly influence animal behaviour in March:
With water still widely available across Kruger National Park, wildlife tends to be more dispersed early in the month rather than concentrated around a few permanent water sources. As smaller seasonal pans begin to dry later in March, animals gradually return to rivers and dams, improving predictability and viewing opportunities.
Predators such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs remain active, often focusing on breeding herds and young animals. Early morning and late afternoon game drives continue to offer the best chances for observing hunting behaviour and predator movement.
For birders, March delivers breeding displays, fledglings, raptors, and waterbirds, offering dynamic and varied sightings throughout Kruger National Park.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kruger National Park in March
- Stay informed: Some roads and river crossings may still be affected by flood damage. Check park updates and confirm access conditions with your accommodation.
- Game drives: Early mornings and late afternoons provide cooler temperatures and increased animal activity.
- Pack for mixed conditions: Light, breathable clothing, sun protection, and a compact rain jacket are recommended.
- Malaria precautions: March falls within the malaria season - consult a healthcare professional before travel.
- Drive cautiously: Gravel roads may remain uneven or slippery in places following summer rains.
- Remain flexible: Allow extra travel time and be prepared to adjust routes or plans if conditions change.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Kruger National Park in March offers a compelling combination of lush landscapes, active wildlife, exceptional birdlife, and improving travel conditions. While the January floods temporarily disrupted access and infrastructure, the park is steadily recovering and continues to deliver a world-class safari experience.
With informed planning and a flexible approach, March is an excellent time to explore one of Africa’s most iconic national parks.
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