Zimbabwe in January

January weather, activities, events & insider tips

January Weather in Zimbabwe

26°C (79°F) High Temp

16°C (61°F) Low Temp

182 mm (7.2 inches) Rainfall

75% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Lush green landscapes at their absolute peak - Victoria Falls thunders at maximum volume with spray visible from 20 km (12.4 miles) away, creating the most dramatic photographs of the year
Wildlife viewing is exceptional as animals congregate around permanent water sources during the rains, making game drives productive even in shorter 3-4 hour windows between storms
Lowest accommodation rates of the year - luxury lodges drop prices by 40-60% compared to dry season, with many offering rainy season packages including indoor activities
Spectacular lightning displays and dramatic storm photography opportunities, plus the chance to experience the raw power of African thunderstorms from comfortable lodge verandas

Considerations

Roads become challenging or impassable - many remote areas require 4WD vehicles, and some lodges in Hwange and Mana Pools may be temporarily inaccessible during heavy rain periods
Afternoon thunderstorms occur 85% of days between 2-6pm, limiting outdoor activities during peak daylight hours and requiring flexible scheduling
High humidity (75%) combined with temperatures reaching 26°C (79°F) creates uncomfortable conditions for extended outdoor activities, particularly hiking or walking safaris

Best Activities in January

Victoria Falls Rainforest Walks and Devil's Pool Access

January offers the most spectacular Victoria Falls experience with maximum water flow creating deafening roars and mist that rises 400 m (1,312 ft) high. The rainforest trail becomes lush and green, though expect to get soaked from spray. Devil's Pool access is typically closed due to high water levels, but the viewing experience from Zambia side is unmatched. Morning visits (7-11am) avoid afternoon thunderstorms.

Booking Tip: Book morning slots only - afternoon visits coincide with thunderstorms. Waterproof camera equipment essential. Tours typically cost $45-80 including park fees. Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators (see current options in booking section below).

Hwange National Park Game Drives

Wildlife viewing is superb during rains as animals concentrate around waterholes and permanent water sources. Early morning drives (6-9am) offer the best conditions before afternoon storms. Expect muddy conditions but incredible photography opportunities with lush green backdrops and dramatic storm clouds.

Booking Tip: Choose lodges with covered vehicles and flexible scheduling. Full-day safaris often split into morning/late afternoon sessions. Prices range $180-350 per day including meals. Book through established safari operators with 4WD vehicles (current tour options in booking widget below).

Matobo Hills Rock Art and Balancing Rocks Tours

The granite landscape of Matobo becomes dramatically beautiful in the rains, with temporary waterfalls cascading off rock formations. Ancient San rock art sites are less crowded and the cooler, humid conditions make hiking more comfortable than dry season. Afternoon storms create spectacular photography opportunities among the balancing rocks.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours work best (4-5 hours) to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Include World's View and rhino tracking if available. Tours typically $65-120 per person. Book with operators who provide rain contingency plans (see available tours below).

Great Zimbabwe Ruins Cultural Tours

The ancient stone city is particularly atmospheric during the rainy season with fewer crowds and dramatic storm clouds providing spectacular backdrops. The cooler temperatures make exploring the extensive ruins more comfortable, though morning visits are essential to avoid afternoon downpours.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (8-11am) before storms arrive. Combine with local village cultural experiences. Entry fees around $15, guided tours $25-40 additional. Allow 3-4 hours total including travel time. Check current availability in booking section.

Harare City and Market Tours

January's rains bring cooler temperatures perfect for exploring Zimbabwe's capital. Mbare Market is at its most busy with fresh seasonal produce, and the city's gardens and parks are lush green. Indoor activities like the National Gallery and craft markets provide excellent rainy day options.

Booking Tip: Focus on covered markets and indoor attractions. City walking tours typically 3-4 hours, $30-60 per person. Many operators offer flexible itineraries adapting to weather conditions. Book cultural tours through registered guides (current options below).

Eastern Highlands Mountain Retreats

The Vumba and Nyanga mountains are spectacularly green during the rains, with waterfalls at their peak flow and mountain flowers blooming. Cooler temperatures at altitude make this region comfortable even in January's humidity. Trout fishing is excellent and mountain lodges offer cozy indoor atmospheres during storms.

Booking Tip: Mountain lodges often offer package deals including meals and activities. Expect road travel to take longer due to conditions. Accommodation $80-250 per night. Book mountain activities with flexible scheduling for weather (see current lodge packages below).

January Events & Festivals

Mid January

Heroes Holiday Weekend

National holiday on the second Monday creating a long weekend when many Zimbabweans travel domestically. Expect higher local tourism at Victoria Falls and popular destinations, but also busy cultural celebrations in towns and cities.

Throughout January

Traditional Rain Ceremonies

Various rural communities hold traditional rain-making ceremonies and harvest preparations during January. While not tourist events, respectful visitors can sometimes observe these cultural practices through community-based tourism programs.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots - essential for muddy game drive vehicles and wet walking trails, many paths become slippery clay

Quick-dry clothing in earth tones - cotton takes too long to dry in 75% humidity, synthetic blends work better for safari activities

Waterproof camera protection - Victoria Falls spray and sudden downpours will damage electronics, dry bags are essential

High SPF sunscreen (50+) - UV index reaches 11 even on cloudy days, reflection off wet surfaces intensifies exposure

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - afternoon storms produce heavy rain and wind, umbrellas are useless in thunderstorms

Insect repellent with DEET - standing water after rains increases mosquito populations significantly, especially around lodges

Waterproof phone case - essential for Victoria Falls visits and sudden downpours during game drives

Extra batteries/power banks - humidity drains electronic devices faster and charging opportunities may be limited during power cuts

Warm layers for early morning game drives - temperatures drop to 16°C (61°F) at dawn in open safari vehicles

Antifungal foot powder - wet conditions and humidity create ideal conditions for fungal infections in boots

Insider Knowledge

Book Victoria Falls helicopter flights for early morning slots (7-9am) - afternoon storms cancel 70% of flights after 2pm, and morning light creates better rainbow photography in the mist

Many luxury lodges offer 'green season' packages with 40-60% discounts plus indoor activities like cooking classes, spa treatments, and cultural talks for rainy afternoons - often better value than dry season visits

Road conditions change daily during rains - always confirm accessibility with accommodations before traveling to remote lodges, particularly in Hwange and Mana Pools where some areas become completely inaccessible

Local markets like Mbare in Harare are at their most busy in January with fresh seasonal produce, mangoes, and traditional foods - visit covered sections during afternoon storms for authentic cultural experiences

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning inflexible itineraries - afternoon thunderstorms require backup indoor activities and flexible scheduling, rigid day plans often fail

Bringing cotton clothing expecting it to dry - synthetic fabrics are essential in 75% humidity as cotton stays damp for days

Underestimating road travel times - distances that take 2 hours in dry season can take 4+ hours in January due to mud and flooding, particularly to remote lodges