Zimbabwe has very good weather all-year round and there is particularly no wrong time to visit Zimbabwe. I would say we have only two main seasons in Zimbabwe: the rainy season from November to May and the dry season from June to October. The patterns of the weather are becoming less predictable because of the recent climate changes but Zimbabwe remains a sub-tropical climatic country.
December, January, February and March
These are the wettest months of the year and there are usually downpours at night and during daytime.
May, June, July, August, September and October
These are the dry months with minimal to no rainfall.
Animal Lovers
For the animal lovers seeking the best safari, the best time to visit and get to view many animals is from May to September. The animals are forced to get water from the waterholes, usually man-made because of little to no rainfall during these months. The inland natural water stations are usually dry during these months and so animals emerge in search of water. Because these months are dry, the forests are not as dense as they would be during the wet months, which makes it easier to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Those interested in game-viewing, game drives and any wildlife related activities can visit from May to September and be guaranteed of spotting even the rarely seen wildlife. Be sure to pack warm winter clothes if interested in any early morning or evening game drives. It does get surprisingly cold in Zimbabwe particularly in June and July, where temperatures can drop to 6-degrees at night.
Nature & Bird watchers
For nature lovers who love to visit the botanical gardens, the best time is December to April. It is the time when the vegetation is green and the flowers would have blossomed. Individuals can enjoy great and amazing views at this time as the plant population responds to the rains.
March, April and May are the best months to visit the Eastern Highlands towns of Bvumba, Chimanimani and Chipinge as the forests are fully developed and full of lively and green plants. It is also the best time to go for a birding tour because many birds, including migratory birds will be chirping and seeing, enjoying the green vegetation. Be sure to bring your set of binoculars.
Adrenaline Junkies!
For adrenaline junkies seeking to enjoy outdoor adventure activities such as white water rafting, the best time to visit is from August to October in the Zambezi River. White water rafting is more enjoyable when the water levels are low in the river. It is otherwise way too dangerous to raft the rapids that go up to level 5 even in the low season. August-October is also the best time for those who are interested in fishing in the Zambezi River.
The best time to visit the Victoria Falls and view the falls is from April-June. This is the time when there is lots of water falling with full force.
Hiking Trails
For hiking and mountain climbing enthusiasts, the best time to hike in the Eastern Highlands, in particular one of Zimbabwe’s most beautiful hiking trails (Turaco Trail) is in summer from October-January. Although this coincides with the wet season, it is the best time to see the furthest as the rain clears up the horizon and the temperatures are cool and conducive for long walks. Some hikers may opt for the dry season between May and July, however, the grand views of mountains, hills and valleys may be disturbed by the rising mist. August to September is not the best time as it tends to get warm, which may affect the walks, and may sometimes be too dry and dusty. However, it remains the coolest area in Zimbabwe, with chances of rain.
Canoeing in the Zambezi
The best time to enjoy a canoe trip along the mighty Zambezi is from July to September because of the good water levels. The Zambezi escarpment experiences some of the warmest days in the country and visiting between July and September means you effectively visit during the coolest period and you can save on sunscreen! During this dry season, you increase your chances of viewing wildlife as well because the inland water holes typically run dry.
There is no wrong time to visit Zimbabwe, even though I say so myself! I have tried to give you a guide based on the activities that are booked through Tiritose Sustainable Travel. It comes down to what exactly you would like to do and see while in Zimbabwe and I am always happy to hop on a call and discuss your individual or group/collective interests.
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