A Traveller’s Guide to Zimbabwe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Zimbabwe is an incredible African destination, known for its glorious natural landscapes and exceptional wildlife. It is among the well-known African wildlife safari destinations, boasting magnificent national parks. No doubt the country has some of the top national parks and diverse landscapes, but you can explore them all perfectly only if you visit the country at the right time. A traveller’s guide to Zimbabwe weather can help you choose the perfect time for your visit to this beautiful country.
Every year, many UK travellers visit Zimbabwe. Some see the country for its national parks, while others are drawn to its unique cultural heritage. If you are also curious about the diversity and beauty of this country and want to visit it soon, we have the perfect weather guide for you. This will help you choose the ideal time for your visit to this glorious gem. Therefore, before booking flights to Zimbabwe, it is essential to go through this guide, which will help you choose the best time for your holiday.
An Overview of Zimbabwe’s Climate
Let’s start with an overall summary of the Zimbabwe weather to help you understand what the weather is like in the country. Zimbabwe has a subtropical climate that is moderated by elevation. The government, situated on a higher plateau, has a mild climate and pleasant temperatures compared to many other destinations in Africa. Zimbabwe has three distinct seasons that are observable throughout the year. These three seasons are listed below.
- From November to March, the rainy season prevails.
- April to August is the cool and dry season.
- September to October is the hot and dry season.
Season-by-Season Guide to Visit Zimbabwe
After an overview, it is now time to discuss the seasons of Zimbabwe in detail.
Rainy Season (November to March)
The rainy season in Zimbabwe is like the summer season. With warm temperatures and heavy rain, this season is known for many adventures in the region. You can expect more rain in the afternoons and evenings. In most areas of Zimbabwe, temperatures range between 25 and 30°C. The thunderstorms are pretty heavy, but don’t last that long. The lush, green landscapes are surely a stunning sight, attracting nature geeks and photography geeks from around the world. However, be aware of the muddy roads in rural areas during this season due to the rain.
Best Things to Do in the Rainy Season
The best things that you can do in Zimbabwe during the rainy season include:
- Perfect for photography due to its lush landscapes.
- Ideal for birdwatchers because of the vibrant bush.
If you are visiting for a wildlife safari, this may not be the perfect time. The tall grasses that grow during this time make wildlife spotting a lot more challenging.
Travel Tip to Visit Zimbabwe During the Rainy Season
Ensure you have breathable clothing, rain jackets, and waterproof shoes if you plan to explore Zimbabwe during the rainy season.
Dry Season
The dry season is the peak time to visit Zimbabwe due to its ideal weather conditions. The weather is significantly cooler during this season; however, the days are sunny and crisp, making them perfect for endless outdoor adventures and exploring the national parks. Temperatures during this time range from 7 to 20°C. As the night temperatures drop, it is much more likely to get cooler in areas like Harare and Bulawayo due to their elevated locations.
Best Things to Do During the Dry Season
There are numerous activities to enjoy in Zimbabwe during the dry season, thanks to the clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant weather. Some of these things are as follows.
- There is no better season than this for wildlife safari adventures. The animals gather around the waterholes, giving you more chances to spot them.
- Immerse yourself in various adventure spots at the Victoria Falls.
- Plan city tours and explore the buzzing markets of the country.
Travel Tips to Visit Zimbabwe During Dry Season
Please note that the weather can be unpredictable during this time of year. During the afternoons, you will need light, breathable clothing, but for the nights, you must pack layers. Warm sweaters and light jackets are ideal for staying comfortable on the cold nights in Zimbabwe.
Hot Dry Season
Before the arrival of the rainy season, temperatures spike in Zimbabwe. The scorching heat is not something that everyone can bear. It is hot, dry, and dusty during this time, with the temperatures ranging between 30 and 35°C. The temperatures increase much more than in low-lying areas such as the Zambezi River.
Best Things to Do During the Hot Dry Season
This is the perfect season to do the following things in Zimbabwe.
- Wildlife visibility is excellent during this time. Therefore, it is considered one of the peak seasons for safari adventures.
- You can explore the world-class national parks and take part in all kinds of safaris, including walking safaris, canoe safaris, rhino tracking, and white water rafting.
Travel Tips to Visit Zimbabwe During the Hot Dry Season
If you plan to visit the country during this season, be sure to stay hydrated and take precautions to protect yourself from the heat. Wear sunscreen at all times, wear a hat, and take hydration breaks.
Final Words
Although we have provided an overview of the seasons and weather in Zimbabwe in this blog, it is essential to note that the country’s weather is as diverse as its landscapes. You will not get the same weather conditions throughout the country. So, make sure to choose the perfect time to visit the country, taking into account the weather you expect and the experiences you want to explore.
