Visiting in January

January in Zimbabwe is a mixed month for travel. It falls within the peak of the rainy season, characterized by frequent, often heavy afternoon downpours and humid conditions, especially in the north and lowveld areas. The rainfall transforms the landscapes into lush green scenery, making it a beautiful time for photography and excellent for birdwatching, as migratory species are present.

This is considered the low season for tourism, so you’ll encounter fewer travelers and more competitive rates, offering a more intimate safari experience. However, wildlife viewing can be more challenging, as animals are more dispersed due to the abundance of water and thicker vegetation.

Be aware that some remote areas, such as Mana Pools National Park, are typically inaccessible, and many camps in that region close for the wet season due to poor road conditions. Despite this, January offers a unique, peaceful safari experience with warm temperatures, vibrant flora, and dramatic skies — ideal for travelers who prioritize nature, solitude, and birdlife over classic big game sightings.

Visiting in February

February in Zimbabwe remains deep within the rainy season, with humid conditions and frequent afternoon thunderstorms, particularly in the north and central regions. The rains can make dirt roads muddy and impassable, especially in remote areas like Mana Pools, where many camps remain closed for the season.

The Zambezi River is in full flow, and while Victoria Falls may be partly obscured by mist at ground level, this makes it a spectacular time for helicopter or microlight flights, offering breathtaking aerial views of the swollen cascade. The lush vegetation and dramatic stormy skies create ideal conditions for landscape and wildlife photography.

While wildlife is harder to spot due to thick foliage and widespread water sources, the season is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a variety of migratory species active across the country. Fewer tourists and low-season pricingmean February is a good choice for those seeking peaceful experiences and great value, provided they’re prepared for unpredictable weather and limited accessibility in some parks.

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 a transitional month in Zimbabwe, marking the shift from the rainy season to the 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. Birding continues to be excellent. At Victoria Falls, water levels are very high — often too much for Devil’s Pool or white-water rafting, which are typically paused during peak flow. However, this is one of the best times to witness the thunderous spray and full width of the falls, especially from aerial or panoramic viewpoints.  Camps and lodges, particularly in Mana Pools, are accessible, enhancing the overall experience.
Overall, April offers a beautiful balance of green scenery, cooler temperatures, and increasing accessibility, making it a great month for photographers, early-season travelers, and bird enthusiasts.

Visiting in May

May signals the start of Zimbabwe’s dry season, bringing cooler temperatures, clear blue skies, and minimal rainfall — perfect conditions for travel and outdoor exploration. The vegetation begins to thin, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing, especially in the mornings and late afternoons when animals congregate near water sources.

National parks and safari areas become more active, as camps are fully open and roads are easily accessible. The pleasant climate and lower humidity also make this a comfortable time for game drives and walking safaris. Photographers will appreciate the crisp air and golden light, ideal for capturing both landscapes and wildlife.

At Victoria Falls, water levels remain high, offering dramatic views of the falls’ full curtain of water and powerful spray. While Devil’s Pool and white-water rafting are still closed due to high flow rates, helicopter or microlight flights provide an unforgettable perspective of the falls at their most awe-inspiring.

May offers prime safari conditions without the peak-season crowds, making it a favorite for travelers who want the best of both worlds: excellent wildlife viewing and natural beauty with a bit more space and serenity.

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.