Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe (Weather, Events, & More)

Planning your next African adventure and wondering about the best time to visit Zimbabwe? This vibrant country, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers unique experiences throughout the year. Whether you're eager to explore the majestic Victoria Falls or embark on a safari in Hwange National Park, timing your visit right can enhance your experience. Let’s dive into the details to help you decide when to book your trip to Zimbabwe.

Best Overall Time to Visit Zimbabwe

The best time to visit Zimbabwe largely depends on what you're looking to get out of your trip. Generally, the ideal months are from April to October when the weather is mild and wildlife viewing is at its peak, especially near the famous waterholes. This period, after the rains, brings lush landscapes and clearer skies, making it perfect for safaris and exploring the majestic Victoria Falls.

Visiting Zimbabwe during the low season, which spans from November to March, has its pros and cons. On the upside, you'll benefit from fewer tourists and potentially lower prices, which can make your trip more budget-friendly and exclusive. However, the cons include the possibility of heavy rains that might disrupt travel plans and some wildlife being harder to spot due to the thick vegetation. Despite these challenges, the low season can still offer a unique experience with its vibrant green landscapes and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Monthly Overview of Zimbabwe

Detailed Monthly Analysis

Here’s what to expect in Zimbabwe in each month of the year:

Zimbabwe in January

Visiting Zimbabwe in January is a vibrant experience, marked by the lush landscapes of the rainy season. While it's one of the wettest months, the showers are usually short and refreshing, typically occurring in the late afternoon. This leaves plenty of time for morning safaris and evening cultural experiences, making it a unique time to see the country in its most verdant state.

• Average Temperature: 21°C / 70°F
• Days of Rainfall: 17 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Guided safaris in the cooler mornings, visiting the Victoria Falls which are spectacularly full, attending local festivals like the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA)

Zimbabwe in February

Visiting Zimbabwe in February means embracing the lushness brought by the rainy season. While it's one of the wettest months, the showers are usually short and intense, typically occurring in the afternoon. This pattern allows you to enjoy the cooler mornings and evenings for sightseeing. The landscape is vibrant and alive, making it a unique time to experience the country's natural beauty.

• Average Temperature: 21°C / 70°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Bird watching, visiting waterfalls, exploring national parks

Zimbabwe in March

Visiting Zimbabwe in March is a vibrant experience, as the country is in the midst of its rainy season. This means the landscapes are beautifully lush and alive, though you should be prepared for frequent showers. The rains are usually short and heavy, mostly occurring in the afternoon, which allows you to plan morning safaris or visits to historical sites without much interruption.

• Average Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring the Victoria Falls at its fullest, bird watching, attending local festivals

Zimbabwe in April

Visiting Zimbabwe in April is a delightful experience as it marks the end of the rainy season. The landscapes are vibrant with lush greenery, and the weather is pleasantly warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities. While there might still be some rainfall, it typically occurs in short, manageable bursts that can provide a refreshing break from the afternoon heat.

• Average Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
• Days of Rainfall: 5-10 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Victoria Falls viewing, wildlife safaris in Hwange National Park, visiting the Great Zimbabwe ruins

Zimbabwe in May

Visiting Zimbabwe in May is a delightful experience as it marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, wildlife is abundant, and the weather is becoming milder, making it an ideal time for various outdoor activities.

• Average Temperature: 15°C / 59°F
• Days of Rainfall: 3 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Game viewing in national parks, Victoria Falls sightseeing, cultural festivals

Zimbabwe in June

Visiting Zimbabwe in June is a delightful experience as you're right in the middle of the dry season. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. The landscapes are still lush from the rainy season, offering stunning vistas and excellent photographic opportunities.

• Average Temperature: 15°C / 59°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Safari in Hwange National Park, visiting Victoria Falls, exploring the Great Zimbabwe ruins

Zimbabwe in July

Visiting Zimbabwe in July is a delight as you're right in the middle of the dry season. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it perfect for wildlife viewing and exploring the stunning landscapes without the worry of rain.

• Average Temperature: 15°C / 59°F
• Days of Rainfall: 1 day
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Game drives in national parks, Victoria Falls visit, walking safaris

Zimbabwe in August

Visiting Zimbabwe in August is a delightful experience as you're right in the middle of the dry season. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it perfect for wildlife viewing and exploring the stunning landscapes without the worry of rain. August is also a great time to witness one of nature's spectacles at Mana Pools National Park, where animals congregate around the water sources, providing exceptional opportunities for up-close encounters.

• Average Temperature: 17°C / 63°F
• Days of Rainfall: 1 day
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Wildlife safaris, Victoria Falls visit, attending the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA)

Zimbabwe in September

Visiting Zimbabwe in September is a delightful experience as you're catching the tail end of the dry season. The weather is generally warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around the scarce water sources.

• Average Temperature: 29°C / 84°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Game drives in national parks, visiting Victoria Falls, canoeing on the Zambezi River

Zimbabwe in October

Visiting Zimbabwe in October is a vibrant experience as the country transitions from the cool, dry winter into the warmer spring. It's the tail end of the dry season, making it an ideal time to witness wildlife congregating around shrinking water sources, which provides spectacular game viewing opportunities.

• Average Temperature: 30°C / 86°F
• Days of Rainfall: 5 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Game drives in national parks, viewing Victoria Falls, attending the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA)

Zimbabwe in November

Visiting Zimbabwe in November is a vibrant experience as the country transitions into its wet season. The landscapes begin to burst with life, thanks to the early rains, making it a spectacular time for photography and nature walks. While there might be some rain, it typically doesn't hinder the ability to explore and enjoy the myriad of activities available during this lush period.

• Average Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Bird watching, visiting Victoria Falls, exploring national parks

Zimbabwe in December

Visiting Zimbabwe in December is a vibrant experience, as the country is in the midst of its rainy season. This brings lush landscapes and spectacular thunderstorms, typically in the afternoon, which can be quite a sight. The weather is warm, and the rain doesn't usually disrupt travel plans, as it's often short-lived and clears up quickly.

• Average Temperature: 21°C / 70°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Bird watching, visiting Victoria Falls, attending local festivals

Special Events in Zimbabwe to Look Out For

Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA)

• Date: Late April to Early May
• Description: A vibrant six-day festival celebrating art, music, dance, and theater, bringing together local and international artists in Zimbabwe's capital.

Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF)

• Date: End of April
• Description: Held in Bulawayo, this is one of the largest trade fairs in Africa, showcasing a broad spectrum of industries and attracting business visitors from around the world.

Victoria Falls Marathon

• Date: July
• Description: A challenging marathon that offers breathtaking views along the route, including a passage over the Victoria Falls Bridge and along the Zambezi River.

Zimbabwe International Film Festival

• Date: September
• Description: A festival dedicated to celebrating the best of Zimbabwean and international cinema, with screenings, workshops, and discussions held in Harare.

Harare International Carnival

• Date: September
• Description: A week-long celebration with street parades, live music, dancing, and costumes that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Zimbabwe.

Shoko Festival

• Date: September
• Description: Zimbabwe’s biggest festival of urban culture, featuring local and international musicians, comedians, and spoken word artists, held in Harare.

Chimanimani Arts Festival

• Date: August
• Description: A community festival in the scenic Chimanimani district, focusing on local arts, crafts, and music, promoting community development and tourism.

Lake Kariba Fishing Tournament

• Date: October
• Description: One of the largest tiger fishing tournaments in the world, attracting anglers from across the globe to compete on the waters of Lake Kariba.

Pro Tips for Traveling to Zimbabwe

• Cash Over Cards: Always have cash on hand as many places in Zimbabwe may not accept credit cards, especially in rural areas or smaller establishments.
• Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is customary and appreciated. Consider tipping 10% in restaurants and rounding up the fare for taxi drivers.
• Drink Bottled Water: It's advisable to stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth to avoid health issues.
• Respect Cultural Norms: Be sensitive to local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and always ask permission before taking photos of people.
• Try Sadza: Don't miss out on trying Sadza, a staple food made of maize, traditionally served with meat or vegetable stew.
• Negotiate Taxi Fares: Always negotiate fares with taxi drivers before the journey begins to avoid misunderstandings.
• Learn Basic Shona or Ndebele: Knowing some basic phrases in Shona or Ndebele can greatly enhance your interaction with locals and show your respect for the local culture.
• Be Mindful of Wildlife: When visiting national parks or wildlife reserves, always maintain a safe distance from animals and follow the guidelines provided by tour guides.
• Public Transport: Utilize public buses for an affordable way to travel between cities, but be prepared for a lack of strict timetables.
• Support Local Artisans: Consider buying handmade crafts and souvenirs from local artisans to support the community economically.

Zimbabwe Travel FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Zimbabwe?
Yes, most visitors to Zimbabwe need a visa. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, but it's safer to apply for one in advance through the Zimbabwean embassy or consulate in your country, or online via the e-visa system. Check the latest visa requirements specific to your nationality before traveling.

What currency is used in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe uses the United States Dollar (USD) as its official currency. It's wise to carry cash, especially in smaller denominations, as some places might not accept credit cards, and ATMs can be unreliable or empty.

What should I pack for a trip to Zimbabwe?
Pack lightweight and comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, but include a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun. Sturdy walking shoes are essential if you plan to go on safaris or explore national parks. Also, consider packing a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications.

Do I need to speak the local language to visit Zimbabwe?
No, you don't need to speak the local languages, as English is the official language of Zimbabwe and is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. However, learning a few phrases in Shona or Ndebele can be appreciated by locals.

Is Zimbabwe safe for tourists?
Zimbabwe is relatively safe for tourists, but it's important to take usual travel precautions. Avoid displaying valuables, be cautious in crowded areas, and don't walk alone at night in unfamiliar places. Always follow local advice and stay informed about the areas you plan to visit.

Is Zimbabwe accessible for travelers with disabilities?
Accessibility can be challenging in Zimbabwe due to limited infrastructure development. Few facilities have adequate services for travelers with disabilities. It's advisable to check with specific venues and accommodation providers about their facilities before booking.

What type of outlet and voltage is used in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe uses Type G electrical outlets, and the standard voltage is 220-240 V. If your devices use a different plug or voltage, you'll need a power adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

What are some cultural norms or etiquette I should be aware of in Zimbabwe?
Respect is highly valued in Zimbabwean culture. Always greet people politely and use titles or surnames unless invited to do otherwise. Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services, usually around 10%.

What is the best time to visit Zimbabwe?
The best time to visit Zimbabwe is during the dry season from May to October when wildlife viewing is at its peak, and the weather is mild and dry. This period also coincides with the Victoria Falls being most voluminous around April to May, although they are spectacular all year round.