The rains in Zambia fall primarily in December, January, February, and March, yet the more north you go, the earlier the rains arrive and the later they go. Eastern and higher places typically receive more rain than western and lowland areas. Zambia’s ‘Emerald Season’ is when most campgrounds close and many unsurfaced roads become impassable.
By April and May, most of the rain had subsided, leaving a verdant landscape that was beginning to dry off. Nighttime temperatures begin to dip, particularly in higher and more southerly regions.
In June, July, and August, the evenings are significantly cooler, but the days are clear and warm. If you’re going out at night, make sure to carry warm clothes to wrap up in because it can get very cold! Most of Zambia’s modest ‘walking bushcamps’ open in early June, when the roads have dried enough to allow access. This marks the beginning of the ‘peak season’ in these countries, with often clear days and increasing wildlife sightings.
Temperatures rise in September and October, and the lower-lying rift valleys, such as the Lower Zambezi and Luangwa Valley, can get quite hot in October. You will, however, witness some excellent game as the animals gather around the scarce water sources.
Zambia’s safari seasons
HIGH (DRY) SEASON – July, August, September and October
SHOULDER SEASON – April, May, June and November
LOW (WET) SEASON – December, January, February and March
When to visit Zambia’s national parks and game reserves
It is true to say that there are national parks and game reserves in Zambia for every season and for every interest, making Botswana the ideal safari destination at any time of the year. The dry season draws the wildlife to congregate along the life-giving waterways, and the rainy season attracts the herds to the lush new grass on the floodplains.
