Zimbabwe in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Zimbabwe
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect wildlife viewing temperatures - animals congregate at water sources as vegetation dries out, making game viewing 60-70% more productive than wet season
- Minimal rainfall (only 3 rainy days typical) means reliable weather for outdoor activities and excellent road conditions to remote parks
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 20-30% less than peak July-August period while weather remains ideal
- Crystal clear skies for Victoria Falls views and photography - visibility extends 15-20 km (9-12 miles) on most days due to low humidity
Considerations
- Increasingly hot afternoons reaching 30°C+ (86°F+) by late September, making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable
- Dust levels rise significantly as dry season progresses - problematic for those with respiratory sensitivities or contact lens wearers
- Water levels at Victoria Falls drop to seasonal lows, reducing the thunderous spray that gives the falls their local name 'Mosi-oa-Tunya'
Best Activities in September
Hwange National Park Game Drives
September offers Zimbabwe's best wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around remaining water holes. Elephant herds of 100+ gather at pumped waterholes, while predator sightings increase 40% as hunting becomes easier in sparse vegetation. Morning temperatures of 15-20°C (59-68°F) mean active animals and comfortable viewing conditions.
Victoria Falls Adventure Activities
Lower water levels in September create ideal conditions for white-water rafting with Grade 4-5 rapids fully exposed. The reduced spray means better visibility for bungee jumping and zip-lining, though the falls appear less dramatic than peak flow season. Perfect weather conditions with minimal rain risk.
Eastern Highlands Hiking Trails
September offers perfect hiking weather in the Chimanimani and Nyanga mountains with crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and virtually no rainfall. Temperatures at 1,500-2,000m (4,920-6,560ft) elevation range from 8-22°C (46-72°F). Crystal clear mountain air provides 50+ km (31+ mile) visibility for spectacular valley views.
Zambezi River Sunset Cruises
September's low humidity and stable high-pressure systems create impressive sunsets with minimal cloud interference. Lower river levels concentrate wildlife along banks - hippo pods gather in deeper channels while elephants cross at traditional fording points. Comfortable evening temperatures of 20-25°C (68-77°F) make deck seating pleasant.
Matobo Hills Rock Art Tours
September's dry conditions provide excellent access to remote rock art sites as seasonal streams dry up, opening previously inaccessible areas. Perfect lighting conditions for photographing ancient San paintings with low humidity preventing camera fogging. Comfortable hiking temperatures before daily heat peaks.
Kariba Houseboat Fishing
September marks prime tiger fish season as dropping water levels concentrate fish in predictable areas. Stable weather patterns provide consistent fishing conditions with light morning breezes ideal for trolling. Comfortable overnight temperatures of 18-22°C (64-72°F) make sleeping on deck pleasant.
September Events & Festivals
Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA)
Zimbabwe's premier arts festival showcases local and international performers across music, dance, theater, and visual arts. Features over 200 performances at multiple venues throughout Harare, with outdoor concerts taking advantage of September's perfect evening weather.
Conservation Awareness Week
National program highlighting Zimbabwe's conservation efforts with special programs at major parks. Hwange and Mana Pools offer extended guided walks, night drives, and educational sessions about anti-poaching efforts and wildlife research projects.