Zimbabwe in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Zimbabwe
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Victoria Falls at maximum flow - February sees the Zambezi River at 80% of its annual peak, creating the most spectacular curtain of water you'll witness all year with mist visible from 20 km (12.4 miles) away
- Lush green landscapes everywhere - the normally golden savanna transforms into emerald grasslands, making wildlife photography dramatically different with busy backdrops
- Peak birthing season for wildlife - February is prime time for seeing newborn elephants, zebra foals, and antelope calves in Hwange National Park, with animals concentrated around permanent water sources
- Lowest accommodation prices of the year - luxury lodges offer rates 40-60% below peak season (May-October), with some offering 3-for-2 deals during this traditionally quiet period
Considerations
- Road conditions deteriorate rapidly - many secondary roads in national parks become impassable, limiting access to remote areas and requiring 4WD vehicles even for typically accessible routes
- High malaria risk - February represents peak transmission season with increased mosquito activity during warm, humid evenings requiring strict prevention measures
- Unpredictable weather disrupts outdoor plans - afternoon thunderstorms can last 2-4 hours and arrive with little warning, forcing indoor alternatives or activity cancellations
Best Activities in February
Victoria Falls Viewing and Activities
February offers the most dramatic Victoria Falls experience with the Zambezi at near-peak flow. The 'smoke that thunders' creates mist clouds visible from Livingstone town 10 km (6.2 miles) away. Morning visits (7-10am) offer the best photography light before afternoon storms. The Devil's Pool is closed due to high water levels, but helicopter flights showcase the falls' full 1.7 km (1.1 mile) width. Raincoats are essential - you'll be soaked within 100m (328 ft) of the falls.
Hwange National Park Game Drives
February transforms Hwange into a wildlife photographer's great destination with lush green backdrops replacing dusty landscapes. Animals concentrate around artificial waterholes and permanent pans, making sightings predictable. Early morning drives (5:30-9am) offer the best wildlife activity before afternoon heat. Newborn animals are common - elephant calves, zebra foals, and impala births peak in February. Stick to main roads as secondary routes become impassable.
Mana Pools Canoe Safaris
The Zambezi River runs high and fast in February, creating exhilarating canoe experiences impossible during dry season. Paddle past submerged islands and through flooded channels while hippos and crocodiles remain active. The dramatic cloud formations provide impressive photography opportunities. However, rapids increase difficulty levels - this is for experienced paddlers only. Water temperatures reach 26°C (79°F), perfect for accidental swims.
Matobo Hills Rock Art and Hiking
February's cooler mornings and lush vegetation make Matobo Hills hiking more comfortable than dry season. Ancient Bushmen rock art sites are more accessible with reliable water sources for longer walks. The granite kopjes create natural shelter during afternoon thunderstorms. Vegetation is at its most busy, creating dramatic contrasts with ancient rock formations. Wildlife including black eagles and rock hyrax are more active in cooler, humid conditions.
Harare Cultural and Urban Experiences
February brings Harare's cultural scene alive with outdoor markets and street food thriving in the humid weather. The National Gallery and Museum offer excellent rainy day alternatives, while Mbare Market provides authentic local experiences during brief weather breaks. Evening temperatures drop to comfortable 16°C (61°F), making rooftop dining and live music venues pleasant. The city's jacaranda trees begin blooming, creating purple-lined streets.
Eastern Highlands Scenic Drives and Hiking
The Eastern Highlands receive Zimbabwe's heaviest February rainfall, transforming the region into a green wonderland with cascading waterfalls at full flow. Nyanga and Chimanimani offer misty mountain hiking with temperatures 5-8°C (9-14°F) cooler than lowlands. Mutarazi Falls reaches its most spectacular flow. However, mountain roads become treacherous and some hiking trails close due to erosion risk.
February Events & Festivals
Zimbabwe International Book Fair
This major literary event typically occurs in late February in Harare, attracting authors, publishers, and book lovers from across Africa. The fair features local and international authors, cultural performances, and educational workshops. It's an excellent opportunity to understand Zimbabwe's intellectual and artistic culture beyond tourism.