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Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe, a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers explorers an array of unforgettable experiences. The awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, captivates with its thunderous cascades and the iconic spray known as “The Smoke That Thunders.” In Hwange National Park, visitors can witness diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and buffalo, in one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. The ancient city of Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reveals the mysteries of a once-thriving civilisation through its impressive stone ruins. The Eastern Highlands, with their lush forests and misty mountains, offer serene hiking trails and scenic beauty. Along the shores of Lake Kariba, houseboat cruises provide a unique way to experience the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.

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What you’ll love most about Zimbabwe

  • Marvel at the mighty Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, where the Zambezi River plunges dramatically into a mist-filled gorge
  • Go on a safari in Hwange National Park, where you can spot Africa’s “Big Five” and roam across vast savannahs teeming with wildlife
  • Discover the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the stone walls of a once-great civilization stand as a testament to the past
  • Explore the serene Lake Kariba, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and sunset cruises against a backdrop of stunning mountains and wildlife
  • Trek through the mountains of the Eastern Highlands, offering lush landscapes, cool climate, and trails that lead to breathtaking views and hidden waterfalls
  • Experience the vibrant culture of Harare, with its lively markets, art galleries, and music scene reflecting the country’s diverse heritage and modern energy

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Harare’s weather patterns

  • Aerial view of ruins in Zimbabwe

  • Victoria Falls at high water, Zimbabwe

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 27℃
  • 27℃
  • 27℃
  • 25℃
  • 24℃
  • 21℃
  • 21℃
  • 24℃
  • 27℃
  • 29℃
  • 28℃
  • 27℃
  • 14
  • 12
  • 12
  • 5
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 4
  • 10
  • 14

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Zimbabwe’s rainy season is in full swing, bringing lush green landscapes and vibrant wildlife activity. While heavy downpours occur, they are usually short-lived, leaving ample time to explore Victoria Falls, which surges dramatically at this time of year. In Mana Pools National Park, birdwatchers can spot migratory species among the wetlands, while the Eastern Highlands offer misty mountain scenery ideal for a quiet retreat.

February

The rains continue, keeping the countryside at its most beautiful. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve, remains open, though animals are more dispersed due to abundant water sources. Despite the wet season, Lake Kariba remains a top destination for fishing and sunset cruises, where the lush surroundings make for breathtaking reflections on the water.

March

As the rains ease, Zimbabwe transitions into a drier period, with temperatures around 27°C in the Zambezi Valley. Victoria Falls remains spectacular, and the surrounding rainforest is at its most vibrant. This is also a great month for exploring Great Zimbabwe, an ancient stone city that tells the story of the country’s rich past.

April

With the rainy season ending, safari conditions improve as roads dry out. The temperatures remain warm but comfortable, making it an excellent time to visit Matobo National Park, known for its unique balancing rocks and one of Africa’s highest concentrations of leopards. Matusadona National Park, bordering Lake Kariba, offers stunning boat-based wildlife viewing.

May

Zimbabwe enters the dry season, bringing clear skies and cool mornings, with highs of 24°C. The Save Valley Conservancy offers exceptional game viewing as animals start gathering near permanent water sources. Gonarezhou National Park, known for its dramatic red sandstone cliffs and large elephant herds, is particularly stunning under the crisp autumn light.

June

Winter arrives, with temperatures cooling to around 21°C during the day and chilly evenings, especially in Harare and the Eastern Highlands. Safari season is at its peak as wildlife congregates around waterholes, making it an excellent time for game drives in Hwange and Mana Pools. For a different experience, the Chimanimani Mountains offer incredible hiking trails, with waterfalls cascading down the rugged terrain.

July

Zimbabwe experiences its coolest month, with daytime highs of 21°C, while mornings and nights can be quite cold. This is one of the best times for spotting big game, as animals gather in large numbers around the dwindling water sources. Lake Kariba’s houseboat trips are a fantastic way to witness elephants and hippos along the shoreline.

August

Dry season safaris remain unbeatable, with warm days and cold nights. Victoria Falls, though at a lower water level than earlier in the year, provides better visibility of the rock formations and adventure activities like white-water rafting reach their peak season. Gweru’s Antelope Park, home to a lion conservation program, offers unique wildlife encounters.

September

Temperatures begin to rise, reaching 27°C, as Zimbabwe moves toward the hot season. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, particularly in Mana Pools, where elephants are often seen standing on their hind legs to reach the last remaining foliage. The Jacaranda trees in Harare and Bulawayo begin to bloom, painting the streets in shades of purple.

October

Often the hottest month of the year, with temperatures around 31°C in low-lying areas like the Zambezi Valley. While daytime heat is intense, safaris remain excellent, as animals are drawn to the last remaining water sources. The dry landscapes make for spectacular photography, and Matobo Hills provides a unique setting for rhino tracking on foot.

November

The first rains of the season arrive, offering relief from the heat. Wildlife disperses slightly as fresh water sources emerge, but safaris are still rewarding. Victoria Falls begins to regain its power, and the Baobab trees of Gonarezhou stand tall against the changing landscape. Bulawayo’s annual Arts Festival brings music, dance, and theatre performances to the city.

December

Summer rains bring renewed life to Zimbabwe, with temperatures around 27°C. The landscape turns a lush green, making this a magical time for photographers. Baby animals are abundant in the national parks, and birdlife is at its most diverse. The festive season sees Kariba and Nyanga fill with visitors enjoying Zimbabwe’s natural beauty over the holidays.

Our Ratings

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