When is a good time to travel to Zimbabwe

The dry season, which lasts from July through October, is the best time to visit Zimbabwe. Because of the little rainfall during this time of year, vegetation is sparse and animals congregates around the few available water sources. These circumstances are ideal for spectacular safaris and game watching in Mana Pools, Hwange, and Malilangwe.

Between April and June is the best time to see the Victoria Falls in all their splendour. Summer rains fill up the Zambezi River, causing massive amounts of water to flow over the Falls.

Zimbabwe’s seasons

HIGH (DRY) SEASON – July, August, September and October

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Plus SymbolWarm and sunny weather with moderate temperaturesMinus SymbolNights can be particularly cold in July
Plus SymbolSunshine and blue skiesMinus SymbolOctober is typically the hottest month
Plus SymbolLower Malaria risk
Plus SymbolWater sources are lower. Animals tend to gather around water holes.

SHOULDER SEASON – April, May, June and November

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Plus SymbolEnd of the wet seasonMinus SymbolGrass can be high which can impede the viewing of wildlife
Plus SymbolPleasant TemperaturesMinus SymbolNovember can be very hot
Plus SymbolStill chance to see animals around water holesMinus SymbolNights can be very cold in June
Plus SymbolRutting season for some antelope

LOW (WET) SEASON – December, January, February and March

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Plus Symbol February is an excellent time for bird watchingMinus SymbolHot and humid weather (November to March are the hottest months)
Plus SymbolHeavy but short downpoursMinus SymbolMore challenging to spot wildlife
Plus SymbolLocalised afternoon thunderstormsMinus SymbolMore mosquitoes about
Plus SymbolPossibility of seeing new born animalsMinus SymbolPeak wet months January and February

When to visit Zimbabwe’s national parks and game reserves

It is true to say that there are national parks and game reserves in Botswana 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.

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