What’s The Best Time To Travel To Zimbabwe?
Are you thinking about adding in Zimbabwe to your African Adventure trip? Let me guide you through the best time to travel to this small but mighty African country.
Did you know that Zimbabwe, despite being a tropical country, experiences remarkably pleasant temperatures throughout most of the year? This makes planning your visit more flexible than you might think. Let’s explore the best time to travel to Zimbabwe and help you make the most of your African adventure.
Zimbabwe In Peak Season (May to October)
The dry winter season from May to October is widely considered the best time to travel to Zimbabwe. During these months, you’ll enjoy clear skies, warm days, and cooler nights. Wildlife viewing is at its peak as animals gather around water sources, making it perfect for safari enthusiasts. If you would like more info on animal experiences, check out my post about Zimbabwe’s best national parks.
Key advantages of visiting during this period:
- Excellent game viewing opportunities
- Minimal rainfall and lower humidity
- Perfect conditions for viewing Victoria Falls
- Comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities
However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so you’ll need to book accommodations well in advance and expect higher prices.
Green Season In Zimbabwe (November to April)
The summer months bring Zimbabwe’s rainy season, transforming the landscape into a lush, green paradise. While some might shy away from traveling during this time, there are several compelling reasons to consider it:
- Lower travel costs and fewer tourists
- Spectacular bird watching opportunities
- Beautiful scenery with flowing waterfalls
- Perfect for photography enthusiasts
The rains typically come in short, heavy bursts, leaving plenty of time for activities between showers. However, some roads might become difficult to navigate, and certain areas could be less accessible.
However, this will possibly mean that if you are looking to see Lions on your safari, it could be harder than other months. If Zimbabwe has had a good rainy season, the grasses will still be long and really can affect how many animals you see. The lions are hidden in the long grass and even though they might be there they can be harder to see.
Temperature and Climate Considerations For Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s climate is generally pleasant year-round, with temperatures varying by region and elevation. The Eastern Highlands tend to be cooler, while the Zambezi Valley experiences warmer temperatures. Here’s what you can expect:
- Winter (May-August): Days are warm (20-25°C), nights can be cool
- Summer (September-April): Warmer temperatures (25-35°C) with higher humidity
- Higher elevations: Cooler temperatures throughout the year
Planning Around Activities
Your ideal travel time might depend on what you want to do:
Wildlife Viewing: Visit during the dry season (May-October) when animals concentrate around water sources.
Victoria Falls: March to May offers the most spectacular water flow and should give you the chance to add Devils Cataract to your Victoria Falls adventure. It is only possible with enough water but its not like you wouldn’t do that falls without it.
Bird Watching: November to April is best, when migratory birds are present. Chimanimani in the central eastern section of Zimbabwe is a great place for birders. It is accessible from either Mutare or Masvingo and is amazing for both hikers and birders. If you are looking for someone to help out in Chimanimani, check out my friend Collen’s website. He is a great guide and very knowledgeable on both hiking and bird watching.
Khami Ruins and Greater Zimbabwe Ruins: Neither of these heritage sites are really weather dependant so you will be able to visit either Khami Ruins or The Greater Zimbabwe Ruins site at any time.
Cultural Considerations
Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage can be experienced year-round, but certain events might influence your travel timing. The country hosts various festivals and cultural celebrations throughout the year, adding an extra dimension to your visit.
How Long Should You Plan For Your Trip To Zimbabwe?
When planning a trip to Zimbabwe, the length of your stay can significantly impact your experience. A well-rounded visit to Zimbabwe usually ranges between one to two weeks, allowing travellers to explore both the country’s iconic sites and its hidden gems.
If you’re short on time, a five-day trip can still provide a fulfilling experience by focusing on highlights like Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park. However, spending closer to two weeks allows for a richer exploration of Zimbabwe’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, culture, and history.
For a shorter stay of about five days, the best way to maximize your time is to visit Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most breath-taking natural wonders. Spend at least two days here to explore both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the falls. You might also add a day trip to Hwange National Park, a couple of hours away, for an unforgettable safari experience.
If you have more time, a one-week trip lets you experience more of Zimbabwe’s wilderness. You can explore both Hwange National Park and Matobo National Park, where you can hike through stunning rock formations and witness ancient San rock art.
Another recommended addition is Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest man-made lakes, where you can enjoy boat safaris and fishing excursions.
For history enthusiasts, adding a day or two to explore Great Zimbabwe, the medieval city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a fascinating insight into the region’s ancient civilization.
A two-week itinerary will give you the freedom to go deeper into Zimbabwe’s culture and natural beauty. This timeframe allows you to journey further off the beaten path, including visits to Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO site famed for its walking safaris and river wildlife, and the Eastern Highlands, with its misty mountains, waterfalls, and tea plantations.
This length of stay also provides more time to engage with local communities, partake in cultural tours, and enjoy Zimbabwe’s hospitality at a relaxed pace.
What’s The Best Way To Get Around Zimbabwe
Getting to Zimbabwe is most convenient by air, with Harare International Airport (Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport) being the main entry point for international travelers.
Several major airlines offer flights to Harare from hubs in Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, and Doha, making it accessible from various parts of the world.
Victoria Falls Airport also serves as an entry point, particularly for travellers focusing on this iconic attraction, with connections from Johannesburg and other regional cities.
From within southern Africa, travellers can consider driving or taking a bus, although this is a lengthier option. Zimbabwe shares borders with several countries, making road access possible from South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique and Zambia.
Once in Zimbabwe, getting around depends on your destinations and preferred travel style. Domestic flights connect major cities and popular tourist areas, such as Harare, Victoria Falls, and Bulawayo, which can save time over longer distances.
For those looking for flexibility, car rentals are available in major cities, though be prepared for some rough rural roads. Unfortunately Zimbabwe is still recovering from decades of Mugabe and his offsiders pillaging the counties assets so there hasn’t been the money for maintenance of roads at all. The locals make them work, but if you do hire a car good ground clearance is important as is reliability.
Public transportation options include buses and shared minibuses (called “kombis”), though these are better suited to shorter journeys within cities. For wildlife and park visits, many travellers opt for organized tours or private transfers, which provide a safer and more comfortable way to explore Zimbabwe’s natural beauty.
The Bottom Line: When To Visit Zimbabwe
While the dry season (May to October) is traditionally considered the best time to travel to Zimbabwe, each season offers unique experiences. Consider your priorities – whether it’s wildlife viewing, budget considerations, or specific activities – when planning your trip. Remember, Zimbabwe’s moderate climate means there’s really no bad time to visit; it’s just about matching the season to your travel goals.
For a smooth journey, remember to check current visa requirements and recommended vaccinations before your trip, and consider getting travel insurance to cover any unexpected situations.
More Zimbabwe Posts
Visit The Greater Zimbabwe Ruins
Best Things To Do in Zimbabwe
Meet Jenny, a passionate Australian travel blogger who has explored 103 countries to date. With over 30 years of travel experience, Jenny has a wealth of knowledge to share with her readers about the cultures, landscapes, and people she has encountered on her journeys. She’s always battling unfashionably frizzy hair and you will never catch Jenny in anything but comfortable shoes. Learn more about Jenny and her travels.