🌤️ When to go?Best time to visit Zimbabwe
The best time to visit Zimbabwe for backpacking is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country's natural wonders.Additionally, wildlife viewing is at its best during the dry season as animals gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them on game drives or walking safaris. Popular destinations such as Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park offer incredible opportunities to see a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitats.
It's worth noting that the months of July and August can be quite busy with tourists, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in May, June, or September. Keep in mind that temperatures can get quite chilly during the evenings and early mornings, so be sure to pack warm clothing.
Overall, the dry season provides the best conditions for backpacking in Zimbabwe, allowing you to fully enjoy the country's natural beauty and wildlife.
Why visit Zimbabwe in May?
May is a great time to visit Zimbabwe for several reasons. The weather is cooler and drier, making it an ideal time to explore the country’s stunning natural attractions. With the end of the rainy season, the landscapes are lush and green, providing a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. The lower temperatures also make it more comfortable for activities such as hiking, safari tours, and visiting the iconic Victoria Falls.On the downside, May is considered the shoulder season in Zimbabwe, meaning that some tourist facilities may be closed or operating on reduced hours. This could limit the availability of certain activities and amenities, and visitors may need to plan their trip more carefully to ensure they have access to everything they want to experience. Additionally, wildlife viewing may not be as optimal as during the dry season, as animals disperse in search of water and food, making them harder to spot.
Overall, visiting Zimbabwe in May offers the opportunity to experience the country’s natural beauty in a more temperate climate, but travelers should be aware of potential limitations in tourist services during this shoulder season.
Why visit Zimbabwe in June?
June is an ideal time to visit Zimbabwe due to the pleasant weather and the abundance of wildlife. The country’s national parks, such as Hwange and Mana Pools, are at their best during this time, with lush green landscapes and plenty of water sources attracting a wide variety of animals. This makes for excellent game viewing and opportunities for incredible safari experiences.Additionally, June marks the beginning of the dry season in Zimbabwe, resulting in clearer skies and lower levels of humidity. This creates perfect conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the country’s stunning natural attractions, including the iconic Victoria Falls. The lower risk of rainfall also means that outdoor adventures are less likely to be disrupted, allowing visitors to make the most of their time in the country.
Furthermore, June is a relatively quieter time for tourism in Zimbabwe, making it a great opportunity to avoid crowds and fully immerse oneself in the beauty and tranquility of the country. This can lead to more intimate and authentic experiences, whether it’s interacting with local communities, enjoying cultural events, or simply taking in the breathtaking landscapes without the hustle and bustle often associated with peak tourist seasons.
Why visit Zimbabwe in July?
July is the perfect time to visit Zimbabwe for wildlife enthusiasts. The dry season is in full swing, making it easier to spot animals as they gather around water sources. The lack of foliage also means that wildlife is more visible, making it an ideal time for game viewing in popular national parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools. The cooler temperatures during July also make outdoor activities more enjoyable, such as hiking and birdwatching.However, July is also peak tourist season in Zimbabwe, which means that popular attractions and accommodations may be crowded and more expensive. Additionally, the dry season can result in dusty and arid landscapes, which may not be as visually appealing as the lush greenery of the wet season. Visitors should also be prepared for chilly evenings and early mornings, as temperatures can drop significantly during this time of year.
Overall, July is a great time to visit Zimbabwe for wildlife enthusiasts who want to take advantage of prime game viewing opportunities and comfortable weather. However, visitors should be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds, as well as the dry and dusty conditions that come with the dry season.
Why visit Zimbabwe in August?
In August, Zimbabwe is in the midst of its dry season, making it an ideal time to visit for wildlife enthusiasts. With the vegetation at its lowest, it becomes easier to spot animals in national parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools. The lack of rain also means that water sources are reduced, leading to increased wildlife congregating around these areas, providing ample opportunities for game viewing and photography.Additionally, August is a great time to visit Victoria Falls, as the water levels are still relatively high from the previous rainy season. This means that visitors can witness the impressive power and beauty of the falls in full force, with plenty of opportunities for activities such as white-water rafting and helicopter tours.
On the downside, August is also one of the peak tourist seasons in Zimbabwe, which means that popular destinations can be crowded and accommodations may be more expensive. Additionally, the weather can be quite chilly in the mornings and evenings, so visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially on safari drives.
Overall, August is a fantastic time to visit Zimbabwe for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for game viewing and experiencing the natural beauty of the country.
Why visit Zimbabwe in September?
September is an ideal time to visit Zimbabwe due to the pleasant weather and lower tourist crowds. The country’s diverse landscapes, from the iconic Victoria Falls to the stunning national parks, are at their best during this time of year. The temperatures are mild, and the wildlife is abundant, making it a perfect time for safaris and outdoor activities.September marks the end of the dry season, meaning that the vegetation is still relatively sparse, making it easier to spot wildlife in the national parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools. It’s also a great time for birdwatching as many migratory bird species start to arrive in the country. The clear skies and mild temperatures make it an excellent time for outdoor adventures, such as hiking, canoeing, and exploring the natural wonders of Zimbabwe.
Additionally, September is a great time to immerse yourself in Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage. The country celebrates its traditional customs and festivals during this time, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the local traditions and customs. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, outdoor activities, or cultural experiences, September provides an ideal opportunity to explore all that Zimbabwe has to offer.
Why visit Zimbabwe in October?
October is a great time to visit Zimbabwe for wildlife enthusiasts. The dry season is in full swing, making it easier to spot animals as they gather around water sources. This is particularly true in popular national parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools, where you can witness large herds of elephants, buffalo, and other iconic African species.Additionally, October is a fantastic time for birdwatching in Zimbabwe. Many migratory bird species arrive in the country during this period, adding to the already diverse birdlife. Birdwatchers can look forward to spotting a variety of colorful and unique species in different habitats across the country.
On the downside, October is also one of the hottest months in Zimbabwe. Temperatures can soar, especially in the lower-lying areas such as the Zambezi Valley and the Victoria Falls region. This can make outdoor activities and wildlife viewing uncomfortable for some visitors, particularly those sensitive to heat. It’s important to take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun if visiting during this time.
Overall, October offers a unique opportunity to witness Zimbabwe’s incredible wildlife and birdlife in their natural habitats, but visitors should be prepared for the heat that comes with the dry season.
🌤️ Climate in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, the climate is generally sub-tropical, with a hot, humid and rainy season from mid-November to March, and a dry season from April to mid-November.Within the dry season, there is a cool period from mid-May to mid-August, and a progressively hotter period from September to mid-November, before the rains, which is the hottest of the year, even though the air is still dry.
Zimbabwe, formerly Rhodesia, is a country located in southern Africa, just north of the Tropic of Capricorn, and almost entirely occupied by a plateau, at an altitude between 1,000 and 1,500 meters (3,300 and 4,900 feet), which tempers the climate.
The temperature in Zambia varies according to altitude and latitude.
In much of the country, rainfall is from relatively low to moderate, in fact it ranges from 550 to 900 millimeters (21.5 to 35.5 inches). The rains occur primarily in the form of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. The wettest regions are the north and the east.
This kind of climate, with a long dry season, produces almost everywhere a savannah landscape.
However, in the highest mountains, forests are found. The highest peak is Mount Nyangani, 2,592 meters (8,504 feet) high, located in the east, in the Nyanga National Park.
source: climatestotravel.com