in Zimbabwe: when to go?
subtropical sec climate
Zimbabwe benefits from a subtropical climate tempered by altitude, with remarkably mild temperatures for a country situated under the tropics. Three distinct seasons punctuate the year: the dry and cool season from May to August (Southern Hemisphere winter), ideal for safaris with exceptional wildlife visibility; the dry and warm season from September to November, perfect for discovering Victoria Falls in all their splendor; and finally the rainy season from December to April, transforming the landscape into a lush green setting but rendering some tracks impassable. The central highlands, where Harare is located, enjoy a particularly pleasant microclimate with cool nights even in summer. For optimal travel, favor the period from April to September which combines comfortable temperatures, low rainfall and perfect conditions for wildlife observation. Photography enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the months of May to August when sparse vegetation facilitates encounters with the Big Five in the Hwange and Mana Pools national parks.
- Best period
- April to September
- Good alternatives
- October to November
- Rainy season
- December to March
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
Central Highlands
FavorableZimbabwe is mainly spread across a vast plateau at an average altitude of 1,200 meters, naturally tempering tropical tem...
Victoria Falls Region
FavorableWild Northwest
IdealEastern highlands
IdealHistoric center
IdealLakeside Southeast
IdealMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
15° — 32°C
Precipitation
198 mm
Average temperature
3.5°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Lush landscapes but difficult roads. Malaria more frequent in lowland areas.
Temperature
15° — 32°C
Precipitation
173 mm
Average temperature
3.5°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Still plenty of showers. Some safari camps close temporarily.
Temperature
14° — 32°C
Precipitation
103 mm
Average temperature
3.5°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Transition to the dry season. Dense vegetation, limited wildlife viewing.
Temperature
11° — 30°C
Precipitation
32 mm
Average temperature
3.2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Excellent transitional period. Mild temperatures and increasingly sparse rainfall.
Temperature
8° — 28°C
Precipitation
9 mm
Average temperature
2.7°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Ideal safari conditions. Cool nights, bring warm clothing.
Temperature
5° — 26°C
Precipitation
3 mm
Average temperature
2.3°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Peak dry season. Maximum wildlife visibility, crystal-clear skies.
Temperature
4° — 27°C
Precipitation
2 mm
Average temperature
2.4°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Driest month of the year. Perfect for Hwange and Victoria Falls.
Temperature
6° — 30°C
Precipitation
4 mm
Average temperature
2.9°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Temperatures rising gradually. Exceptional conditions for all safaris.
Temperature
9° — 34°C
Precipitation
10 mm
Average temperature
3.6°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Very good period despite increasing heat. Minimal water flow at Victoria Falls.
Temperature
13° — 38°C
Precipitation
34 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Intense but dry heat. Maximum concentration of wildlife near water sources.
Temperature
14° — 35°C
Precipitation
94 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
First thunderstorms. Heavy atmosphere but vegetation turning green again.
Temperature
15° — 32°C
Precipitation
172 mm
Average temperature
3.6°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Heavy daily downpours. Lush nature but limited access to remote parks.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit in Zimbabwe
The best months to visit in Zimbabwe are April, May, June, July, August, September. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
The subtropical climate of Zimbabwe alternates between dry and wet seasons, with consistently warm temperatures (average 21.5°C). Variations are more pronounced than in a classic tropical climate: winters can be cool depending on the region.
The wet season in Zimbabwe covers December, January, February, March, with frequent rainfall. Nature is lush but some itineraries may be affected. The dry season (April, May, June, July, August, September) is preferred.
If Zimbabwe is located in a typhoon zone, these phenomena generally occur in late summer and autumn. Our local agency monitors weather in real time and adapts itineraries as needed.
The driest months (April, May, June, July, August, September) offer the best conditions for cultural site visits and urban exploration. Pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and often clear skies for photography.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in in Zimbabwe, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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