Seasons and Weather
Although located in the tropics, temperate conditions prevail all year round in Zimbabwe as the climate is moderated by altitude and the inland position of the country. The hot and dry season runs from August through to October, and the rainy season from November through to March. The best months to visit are April to May and August to September when it is drier and cooler, however night-time temperatures can fall below freezing.
Zimbabwe has a rainy season from November/December to March and during this time days are hot and sunny with possible afternoon thunderstorms. By April and May most of the rain is gone, skies are clear and days are sunny and warm. Night-time temperatures drop dramatically between June and August although daytime temperatures remain pleasantly warm. Late August sees the start of the hot and dry season which continues until October.
If you're visiting Zimbabwe for the mighty Victoria Falls, check out our comprehensive guide on the best time to visit Vic Falls.
Climate | Hwange
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp Min °C | 23 | 23 | 21 | 19 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 14 | 20 | 24 | 24 | 23 |
| Temp Max °C | 33 | 32 | 31 | 31 | 28 | 26 | 26 | 30 | 34 | 36 | 34 | 33 |
| Rainfall (mm) | 103 | 80 | 64 | 15 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 10 | 54 | 159 |
Climate | Harare
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp Min °C | 17 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 16 |
| Temp Max °C | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 24 | 22 | 22 | 24 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 26 |
| Rainfall (mm) | 190 | 173 | 99 | 35 | 10 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 7 | 36 | 95 | 183 |
See Also
Our handy travel resources cover everything you need to know when planning a visit to Zimbabwe. Have a browse through the below links:
Best Places to Visit - what to see and where to go in Zimbabwe
Visiting Victoria Falls - best time to see one of the world's greatest natural wonders
Tourist Visas - what you need to know before travelling to Zimbabwe
Top Travel Tips - time, health and money in Zimbabwe
About Overland Safaris - what to expect on an overland expedition
About Lodge Safaris - all you need to know about lodge accommodated safaris
Safari Wildlife Guide - where to find Africa's most iconic wildlife
Spotting Africa's Big 5 - our guide to the Big 5 and the best places to find them
