Best Time to Visit
Zimbabwe
The optimal time to visit Zimbabwe is from July to October, which is prime for game viewing. During this period, natural waterholes in the parks diminish, leading large herds to gather around lakes, man-made waterholes, and rivers. Traveling from November to March is perfect for those looking to explore off the beaten path and delve into the country’s rich cultural heritage. This time is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with numerous migratory birds present. From April to June, visitors can find great value and spectacular views of Victoria Falls at its most powerful. In Zimbabwe, temperatures are comfortably warm year-round, typically ranging from about 70°F to 95°F.
Zimbabwe's month-by-month visit guide
Visiting in January
January in Zimbabwe is a mixed month. It marks the peak of the rainy season with sporadic downpours, creating lush landscapes and abundant wildlife. This low season attracts fewer travelers, providing quieter safari tours and good value. Wildlife viewing is dispersed due to increased vegetation, and it’s an excellent time for birdwatching. However, road conditions may be challenging in some areas, and certain camps, particularly around Mana Pools National Park, may be closed. Despite these considerations, January offers a unique experience with vibrant nature and warm temperature.
Visiting in February
February presents a mixed bag for visiting Zimbabwe. It’s a humid and very wet month, often with thunderstorms in the afternoon. Rainfall severity can render dirt roads impassable, closing some camps in Mana Pools. The Zambezi River swells, potentially obscuring Victoria Falls with mist, making it an ideal time for a helicopter ride. Storm clouds offer a stunning backdrop for photographs, and lodgings are more affordable during the wet season. Rain persists, nurturing vegetation, creating a haven for migratory birds amid a warm and inviting overall climate.
Visiting in March
March is an ideal month to explore Zimbabwe. The rainfall diminishes, but the landscapes remain lush from the recent rainy season. This period is perfect for witnessing the majestic Victoria Falls with its famous spray rainbows. The water levels are optimal for observing the gorges. With low rates and quieter national parks, it’s a prime time to travel. However, note that some camps around Mana Pools may be closed. This season also offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography, as many herbivore species undergo calving. Zimbabwe’s landscape is vibrant and green as the wet season winds down, creating excellent conditions for birding.
Visiting in April
April is an ideal month for a Zimbabwe visit, marking the transition from the rainy to dry season. With fewer showers and cooler temperatures, it’s great for safaris, even though dense vegetation makes game viewing a bit challenging. Notably, witnessing young animals in the bush is a highlight. While Devil’s Pool and white-water rafting at Victoria Falls might be restricted, you can still enjoy splendid views of the falls’ spray. Camps and lodges, particularly in Mana Pools, are accessible, enhancing the overall experience.
Visiting in May
May is an ideal month to explore Zimbabwe. It marks the dry season, perfect for wildlife viewing with thinning vegetation. This popular period sees increased activity in safari areas and national parks. Comfortable temperatures and clear blue skies enhance the experience, providing excellent opportunities for landscape photography. Victoria Falls boasts optimal water levels for viewing the world’s largest waterfall. However, note that Devil’s Pool and white water rafting are unavailable. Expect less rainfall, a transitioning landscape, and prime conditions for observing wildlife around water sources in the mornings and evenings.
Visiting in June
June is the optimal month for a Zimbabwe visit, marked by exceptional wildlife viewing and peak safari season. The popularity during this period leads to quick property bookings and potential price increases in some camps. Victoria Falls is a must-see, with high water levels post-rainy season and minimal spray hindrance. The month’s cool temperatures make it ideal for canoeing in Mana Pools, with abundant wildlife along the banks. Noteworthy wildlife spots include Matobo Hills for rhino tracking, Hwange for elephants, and Matusadona for crocodiles by the river. The dry season enhances wildlife viewing, particularly around waterholes, with warm days and chilly nights, especially in highland areas.
Visiting in July
July is the optimal time to explore Zimbabwe, marked by peak safari opportunities. During this dry season, the cool weather attracts significant wildlife concentrations around scarce water sources, creating exceptional viewing moments. Plan ahead and book accommodations early due to heightened demand. Notably, Hwange National Park hosts impressive herds of elephants returning from Botswana. The cool nights and mornings suggest layering for comfort during early morning and night game drives. In summary, July promises a prime safari experience with abundant wildlife and favorable weather conditions.
Visiting in August
August continues the dry, cool cAugust is the optimal time to experience Zimbabwe’s vibrant wildlife during peak safari season. With abundant wildlife congregating around limited water sources, it’s essential to book early due to high demand. Enjoy unobstructed views of Victoria Falls without spray interference. While bushfires peak, they create mesmerizing sunsets and photo opportunities. Although daytime temperatures rise, mornings and evenings may still feel cool. August maintains dry, cool conditions, ideal for safaris, ensuring active wildlife and minimal rain, providing clear skies for stargazing.onditions, making it an excellent time for safaris. Wildlife remains active, and the risk of rain is minimal, ensuring clear skies for stargazing.
Visiting in September
September is the prime time to explore Zimbabwe, marked by warm and dry spring weather. It’s an ideal month for safaris, offering abundant wildlife sightings. In Hwange National Park, witness sizable elephant herds, coinciding with the annual game count. Enjoy clean rivers and lakes for fishing on the Zambezi river or Lake Kariba. Experience thrilling white water rafting at Victoria Falls due to low Zambezi river waters. The golden and red landscapes with sparse vegetation provide stunning photography opportunities, making September an excellent month to visit Zimbabwe.
Visiting in October
In October, Zimbabwe experiences the tail end of its peak season. Although temperatures can be uncomfortably high, this period is optimal for wildlife viewing due to animals congregating around waterholes. Victoria Falls, while less dramatic, showcases its lowest water level. Accommodation availability improves as the peak season concludes. As the dry season persists, temperatures rise, making it an excellent time for safaris with clear visibility. Mornings and evenings are pleasantly mild. The impending rains bring relief from extreme temperatures.
Visiting in November
In November, Zimbabwe experiences the onset of rains, leading to lush greenery. However, it’s not the ideal time for Victoria Falls due to low water levels in the Zambezi River. Mana Pools has restricted access from mid-November to March. The dense vegetation makes wildlife spotting challenging, and animals aren’t reliant on waterholes. Despite this, it’s a low season with ample availability of accommodations at relatively low rates. The dry season concludes with occasional showers, maintaining excellent wildlife sightings and initiating the green transformation of the landscape.
Visiting in December
December in Zimbabwe is a green-season month, offering lush landscapes and vibrant birdlife due to plenty of rain. However, continuous rain and high humidity might be discomforting for some travelers. On the positive side, national parks and accommodations are less crowded and more affordable than peak season. Yet, heavy rainfall can lead to impassable roads and disruptions in safari activities, with some lodges closed. Despite challenges, December signals the beginning of the rainy season, transforming Zimbabwe into a lush, vibrant landscape, ideal for birding and warm temperatures.
Curating ultimate tailor-made safari experiences for 35 years
Places to visit in Zimbabwe
"The guides at each camp were very knowledgeable and knew so much about the wildlife."
Amanda
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Zimbabwe.
Rick McIntyre
Rick McIntyre
Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014.
Rachel Chambers
Rachel Chambers
Rachel resides on the vibrant West Coast of Canada, specifically on Vancouver Island. She has a profound love for travel, having explored nearly 30 countries. However, it was a solo journey to Africa that truly ignited her passion. Upon stepping foot in Botswana for the first time, Rachel was captivated and knew she needed to explore more of the continent. Since then, she has ventured solo to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, and Kenya, where she traveled with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps.
It was during these experiences that Rachel realized her desire to be a part of the Gamewatchers team.Â
You can contact Rae at rae@gamewatchers.com or WattsApp +1-250-588-9112
Julie Roggow
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014.Â
