When to Zimbabwe
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
Peak summer and rainy season with hot, humid conditions and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The landscape is lush and green, with spectacular waterfalls, but some roads may be difficult to navigate. Wildlife is dispersed due to abundant water sources, making game viewing more challenging.
February
Continues the wet season with heavy rainfall and hot temperatures, creating spectacular conditions at Victoria Falls as water levels rise. The countryside is at its greenest, and migratory birds are present. This is low season for tourism with excellent accommodation deals available.
March
The rainy season begins to taper off with occasional storms becoming less frequent. Victoria Falls starts reaching peak flow, creating dramatic viewing conditions. Temperatures remain warm but slightly more comfortable as autumn approaches, with lush vegetation still dominating the landscape.
April
A transitional month marking the beginning of the dry season with decreasing rainfall and pleasant temperatures. Victoria Falls is at its most impressive with maximum water flow. Wildlife viewing improves as vegetation thins and animals begin congregating around permanent water sources.
May
The dry season is well established with warm, sunny days and cool nights. This is considered one of the best months to visit Zimbabwe, offering excellent wildlife viewing, comfortable temperatures, and spectacular Victoria Falls still in full flow. Humidity drops, making conditions very pleasant.
June
Peak winter month with clear, sunny days and cold nights, especially in higher elevations. This is prime safari season with excellent game viewing as animals gather at waterholes. Minimal rainfall and low humidity create ideal conditions for outdoor activities, though warm layers are essential for early mornings.
July
The coldest month with frosty mornings in some areas but warm, pleasant afternoons under clear blue skies. This is peak tourist season with excellent wildlife viewing conditions and no rainfall. Victoria Falls water levels begin to decrease, but the falls remain impressive with less spray for better photography.
August
Continues the dry, cool winter conditions with gradually warming temperatures. Wildlife viewing is at its peak as animals concentrate around limited water sources. The landscape is dry and brown, but visibility is excellent. This remains high season for tourism with clear skies and comfortable daytime temperatures.
September
Late winter transitioning to spring with warming temperatures and continued dry conditions. This is one of the hottest months before the rains arrive. Wildlife viewing remains excellent as water sources are scarce. Victoria Falls is at its lowest, revealing unique rock formations and allowing activities like Devil's Pool.
October
The hottest month of the year with intense heat building before the rains. Known locally as 'suicide month' due to the oppressive temperatures. Wildlife viewing can be exceptional as animals concentrate at remaining waterholes, but the heat can be challenging. Occasional pre-rain storms may appear late in the month.
November
The rainy season begins with afternoon thunderstorms providing relief from the heat. Temperatures remain hot but become more bearable with cloud cover and rain. The landscape starts turning green, and migratory birds arrive. This marks the beginning of low season with fewer tourists and lower prices.
December
Full summer with regular afternoon thunderstorms and hot, humid conditions. The countryside transforms into a lush, green great destination. Wildlife is harder to spot as animals disperse with abundant water everywhere. Tourism is quiet except around Christmas and New Year, offering good value for budget travelers.