When is the best time to visit Zimbabwe?
Like many of the Southern African countries, Zimbabwe experiences exceptional weather all year round. The winters are mild, allowing you to get by with little more than a light jacket while the summers can get a little too intense for some, with the heat can make travelling a little bit uncomfortable.
The best time to travel to Zimbabwe is between the months of July and October. During this time of year, the country is experiencing its winter months and so being on the road is a lot more pleasant. This time of year is also a lot drier, which for those who are going on a safari means the wildlife viewing will be a lot easier, as the vegetation would have somewhat died back.
From November to March, the country experiences summer, with day time temperatures sometimes reaching well over 40 degrees Celsius in some places. Most Zimbabwe accommodation has things like air conditioning and a swimming pool for guests to enjoy, but when out on the road, these temperatures can become a little overwhelming. Zimbabwe experiences summer rainfalls and thunderstorms, which brings the landscape back to life after the months of dry weather. Those who want to see the birds migrating in the area, should plan their travels for this time of year.
From April to June, the temperatures begin to cool down a little bit and for those planning a trip to the Victoria Falls, this time of year offers some of the best weather conditions to do so. This time of year follows the summer rains, which means the Falls are in full flow.
Top Attractions and Activities
Zimbabwe is full of interesting attractions and fascinating things to see and do. Although the most famous attraction is without a doubt the Victoria Falls, this particular sighting is just one of many that you should add to your travel itinerary. Zimbabwe tours come in a variety of forms, including safari trips, and cater to a wide range of travel expectations and requirements. To help you make the most of your trip to Zimbabwe, here’s a couple of attractions and activities to add to your list.
- Go to Lake Kariba
Lake Kariba is an iconic destination, which is why it has been given the nickname “the Riviera of Zimbabwe”. Along its shores sit countless luxury houseboats and over the years it has become famous for being an inland beach holiday destination. The main purpose of Lake Kariba is actually to provide hydroelectric power to Zimbabwe and Zambia, and if you find yourself in the northern part of the country, be sure to spend some time here, because the area is both beautiful and fascinating.
- Go to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Zimbabwe is home to a lot of history, much of which predates the colonial era. One place where you can explore this fascinating history is at the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, which are thought to have been built in the 11th century by the Shona people. The ruins consist of thousands of dry packed stones which take the shape of towers, staircases and patterns.
- Go to the Victoria Falls
It is hard to describe what it is like to stand at the edge of the falls, and the photos and videos that you have probably seen just don’t do this attraction any real justice. When you are visiting Zimbabwe, you simply have to spend some time at the falls. You will be absolutely blown away by the sheer size and beauty of these cascades.
- Go on a Canoe Safari
The traditional safari game drive certainly has its place, but a canoe safari is something altogether different. Canoe safaris take place between April and November along the Zambezi River and they make for quite the adventure.
- Go for a Hike
In the Eastern Highlands, where the vegetation is lush and beautiful, walkers, hikers and anyone who really loves to be outdoors, can look forward to an epic adventure. If you are fit and up for the challenge, you can hike up Zimbabwe’s highest mountain. Mount Nyangani will only take about an hour and a half to climb and the views from the top are just incredible.