The best time to visit Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe, with its vibrant people, landscapes and wildlife, offers a wealth of unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you want to witness the thundering power of Victoria Falls, go on a world-class safari, or explore the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, the best time to visit depends on your goals.

Summer (December to February): Lush landscapes and thundering falls

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Feel the mist of Victoria Falls as it thunders into the Zambezi River.

Zimbabwe’s summer is part of the wet season, bringing warm temperatures and afternoon thunderstorms that transform the landscape into a lush, green paradise. While wildlife can be harder to spot in the dense bush, this is when Victoria Falls is at its most powerful – an awe-inspiring sight as millions of liters of water plunge into the Zambezi Gorge every second.

This is a fantastic season for photographers, birdwatchers (migratory species are in abundance), and travelers seeking fewer crowds and better rates. Be prepared for some muddy roads and occasional rain showers, especially in remote parks like Mana Pools.

Fall (March to May): Waterfalls in full flow and quiet safari moments

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Spot these friendly giants at Hwange National Park!

As the rains begin to subside, Zimbabwe enters a sweet spot: the landscapes remain lush, Victoria Falls continues to thunder impressively, and tourist numbers stay low. This is a great time for a more relaxed safari experience in parks like Hwange National Park, where wildlife begins to emerge more predictably as water sources start to shrink.

Temperatures cool slightly, making it pleasant for travel, and the scenery is still breathtaking. It’s also a great time to explore the Eastern Highlands for hiking and scenic drives through misty mountains and forested trails.

Winter (June to August): Peak safari season and ideal weather

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The stunning Chilojo Cliffs in Gonarezhou National Park.

Zimbabwe’s winter is the dry season, and it’s the best time for safaris. Wildlife concentrates around waterholes and rivers, especially in Hwange, Mana Pools, and Gonarezhou, offering some of the most rewarding game viewing on the continent. With clear skies and cooler temperatures, this is the most popular time to visit – so book in advance!

Victoria Falls is still impressive, though with less spray, allowing for better views and photo opportunities. It’s also the perfect time for canoeing safaris on the Zambezi, walking safaris, and other adventurous pursuits.

Spring (September to November): Hot, dry, and full of wildlife action

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A hippopotamus yawns in Mana Pools.

Spring brings intense heat and very little rain, but it’s also the time when wildlife sightings reach their peak. Animals gather in huge numbers at dwindling water sources, especially in Hwange and Mana Pools, making this one of the best times for serious safari-goers.

Though Victoria Falls is at its lowest flow, you can now see the rock face and geological formations usually hidden by spray – a different kind of beauty. This is also a great time to visit Great Zimbabwe, the ancient stone city that gives the country its name, with fewer tourists and wide-open skies.