Zimbabwe in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Zimbabwe
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak wildlife viewing - animals concentrate around water sources, making Victoria Falls area perfect for spotting elephants, Buffalo, and hippos within 2-3 km (1.2-1.9 miles) of the river
- Victoria Falls at maximum flow - 5,500 cubic meters per second creates the most dramatic 'smoke that thunders' effect, visible from 40 km (25 miles) away
- Emerald landscapes - November rains transform Zimbabwe into lush green scenery, perfect for photography and bird watching with over 400 species active
- Lower accommodation prices - shoulder season rates are 30-40% cheaper than dry season peak (May-October), with luxury lodges offering better availability
Considerations
- Daily afternoon thunderstorms - 80% chance of heavy rain between 2-5pm, limiting outdoor activities during prime afternoon hours
- High humidity makes 29°C (84°F) feel like 35°C (95°F) - uncomfortable for hiking or extended outdoor activities midday
- Muddy roads in remote areas - some game drives and cultural sites become inaccessible, particularly in Hwange's southern sections
Best Activities in November
Victoria Falls Morning Tours
November offers the most spectacular falls viewing with maximum water flow creating thunderous roars heard 10 km (6.2 miles) away. Morning visits (6-10am) avoid afternoon storms and offer the best rainbow photography opportunities. The Devil's Pool is closed due to high water levels, but the raw power is unmatched.
Hwange National Park Game Drives
November's rains create natural waterholes, concentrating wildlife in predictable locations. Early morning drives (6-9am) offer the best animal viewing before afternoon storms. Elephant herds of 50+ gather at Nehimba and Linkwasha areas. The green season provides excellent photography with dramatic storm backdrops.
Zambezi River Sunset Cruises
November evenings offer clear skies after afternoon storms, creating spectacular sunset conditions over the Zambezi. Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals come to drink after daily rains. Hippo and crocodile sightings are guaranteed, with elephant herds often visible on Zambian banks.
Matobo Hills Cultural Walks
The granite formations and ancient rock art sites are impressive after November rains when surrounding vegetation is lush green. Morning walks (7-11am) offer perfect temperatures of 22°C (72°F) and clear skies. San Bushmen paintings are best photographed in soft morning light with green backdrop.
Great Zimbabwe Ruins Exploration
November's green season transforms the medieval stone city ruins into a photographer's great destination. The 11th-century walls contrast beautifully with emerald vegetation. Morning visits (8-11am) offer comfortable temperatures and dramatic lighting before afternoon heat and storms.
Mana Pools Canoe Safaris
November's high Zambezi water levels create perfect canoeing conditions through channels normally too shallow. Wildlife viewing from water level offers unique perspectives of drinking elephants and bathing Buffalo. Morning paddles (6:30-10:30am) avoid afternoon storms and offer glass-calm water conditions.
November Events & Festivals
Heroes Day National Holiday
Zimbabweans honor liberation war heroes with ceremonies at Heroes Acre monument in Harare. Traditional music performances and cultural displays showcase Shona and Ndebele heritage. Local markets offer traditional foods and crafts.
Rainmaking Ceremonies
Traditional Shona communities perform mukwerera ceremonies to welcome the rainy season. Visitors can experience authentic cultural practices in rural communities around Marondera and Rusape, including traditional beer brewing and ancestral spirit consultations.