When To Visit Zimbabwe
Remember, all our itineraries are totally flexible and can be changed to suit you.
Why Go On Zimbabwe Safaris Tours & Holidays
Be prepared for an exciting journey full of surprises when going on a first-time safari in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe boasts two top safari destinations – Victoria Falls and Mana Pools – and there’s so much more to experience: Hwange’s richness of wildlife, Matobo’s grand leopards, the dramatic remoteness of Gonarezhou, and the gorgeous sunsets over Lake Kariba. Go for a game drive in search of the Big Five in Hwange National Park. Push up the heat with a canoe or walking safari in Mana Pools National Park on the mighty Zambezi River. Search for ancient rock art on the balancing boulders in Matobo National Park, and get drenched in the spray of Victoria Falls (Vic Falls), one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Wherever you go, you’ll be charmed by the friendly people you meet along the way. Slow down and make time for a conversation here and there on a cultural tour. The world’s largest man-made reservoir, the vast waters of Lake Kariba are home to the fierce tiger fish, renowned among avid anglers, while herds of wildlife wander its shores.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Zimbabwe For Safari?
Zimbabwe is a popular African safari destination to visit all year round, therefore each of Zimbabwe’s safari seasons has something special to offer with year-round game-viewing possibilities, a diverse range of wildlife, and a small fraction of the crowds that other parks in Africa see.
The best months for visiting Zimbabwe depends on whether you like heat, rain, or more temperate conditions, making the answer to this question complex because the weather is almost always good, and most areas of the country are accessible year-round.
Yet, depending on your personal interests, why you’re travelling, and exactly where you want to visit – it’s worth putting some thought into the timing while planning your trip to Zimbabwe.
Although Victoria Falls is rewarding to visit at any time, please bear in mind that Africa’s weather patterns are becoming more and more unpredictable, possibly due to global warming.
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Month-By-Month Guide On When To Go To Zimbabwe
In this guide, we explain further about the best time of the year to visit Zimbabwe for safari by month, and apart from sharing with you insights to Zimbabwe’s best safari months, our listed Zimbabwe climate guide is designed to assist you plan your ultimate safaris in Zimbabwe.
Overall Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe
Travelling to Zimbabwe from May to September – Best time to visit
Travelling to Zimbabwe from May to October (Dry Season) – Best time for wildlife game viewing
Travelling to Zimbabwe from May to September – Best time to see Victoria falls- water is mid-to-low and water spray does not block fall views
Best Weather – April, May and September
Visiting Zimbabwe In January
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in January?
Zimbabwe in January falls in the middle of the wet season, and signals the start of the rainy month, where days are wet with thunderstorms common in the afternoons making wildlife is harder to spot at this time of year in the dense bush, but you can take advantage of lower safari prices and fewer crowds – keeping in mind that this is low-water season for Victoria Falls, and birdwatching is excellent during this time.
Visiting Zimbabwe In February
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in February?
Zimbabwe in February also marks the wettest month, characterized by short but often dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. Nights and mornings are warm at around 18°C/64°F. With the rains arriving in this time of the month, the water level of the Zambezi River is high, which means that Victoria Falls is in full flow but due to the amount of mist and spray, it may interfere with views of this UNESCO World Heritage site. That said, if you do decide to visit then, consider helicopter flights to Victoria Falls or a microlight flight to truly appreciate the sheer size of the Falls.
Visiting Zimbabwe In March
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in March?
If you’re to visit Zimbabwe in March, it’s hot, humid and rainy in with frequent afternoon thundershowers; these are usually short bursts that last a few hours. This is probably not an ideal time to visit Zimbabwe.
Water levels are perfect for viewing of Victoria Falls, especially seeing the gorges that surround this UNESCO World Heritage attraction as well as the famous spray rainbows. Combine this with the rocky outcrops in the Matopo Hills, an area located in Matobo National Park. Within this beautiful scenery, one can find gigantic caves decorated with ancient Khoekhoe paintings, bearing testimony to the colonial and rich cultural heritage of the region.
Visiting Zimbabwe In April
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in April?
When planning to visit Zimbabwe in April, most of the rain is gone, leaving a lush greenery setting across the game parks, which is starting to dry out; especially in southerly and higher locations, the night-time temperatures start to drop. Although it is high season, the parks won’t be crowded, except for Victoria Falls.
Mana Pools National Park, famous for walking safaris in Zimbabwe re-opens during this time as the day looks more clear and brighter although at the beginning of the month, it can be an unpredictable so it’s best to pack lots of layers and waterproof clothing since there might be fewer rain showers and general cooling of temperatures.
Visiting Zimbabwe In May
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in May?
Zimbabwe in May through August tends to be a bit cooler (night temperatures can drop into the low 40s); same as April the landscape is still looking lush and green as the visibility in the bush starts to improve. The country is experiencing warm and pleasant temperatures during this time of the year.
If you want to see Victoria Falls when the water is still high and have a good safari, then you should aim for May. May is considered peak season in Zimbabwe and safari prices will be higher, so it’s best to book up to a year in advance for your safaris in Zimbabwe.
Visiting Zimbabwe In June
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in June?
Zimbabwe in June, the weather turns colder at night as the winter sets in. Be sure to pack warm clothes because early morning game drives in open safari vehicles will be chilly, given the average morning temperature is 6°C/43°F while the afternoons are more pleasant with temperatures at around 25°C/77°F making the park abit warmer.
June in Zimbabwe is considered the best time for a safari because game viewing is spectacular in the dry season as it marks the return of the wildlife to natural waterholes in Hwange National Park and this is the perfect time to take on photographic safaris in Zimbabwe since huge number of herds gather at lakes, rivers and man-made waterholes to quench their thirst. June is where to go in Zimbabwe for rhino tracking at Matobo National Park, whereas for the elephant lovers Hwange National Park is the place you want to be.
Visiting Zimbabwe In July
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in July?
Zimbabwe in July is no different from June, the average morning temperature is 6°C/43°F while the afternoons are more pleasant with temperatures at around 25°C/77°F whereby, nights can be close to freezing, but during the day it warms up quickly.
Visiting Zimbabwe in July is the first month of the peak season, wildlife sightings is excellent, and it’s a great time to do white-water rafting and experience Zimbabwe canoe safaris before the parks get busier over the holiday period.
Visiting Zimbabwe In August
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in August?
Zimbabwe in August experiences sunny days with daytime temperatures mild – dramatically dropping down to below 10C at night, with wildlife viewing being at its prime.
August is a clear and dry month with barely any clouds in the sky, an ideal Zimbabwe climate for wildlife safari sightings without the interruption of rain. The camps in the game parks remain full during this time, given August is the heart of the dry season and the best month for a Zimbabwe safari.
This is also regarded as the best time to go white-water rafting at Victoria Falls. Zambezi National Park and Mana Pools National Park are two popular places that offer the canoeing safaris. During this time, canoe safaris are great ways to see hippos, elephants, and aquatic birds in Zimbabwe.
Visiting Zimbabwe In September
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in September?
Zimbabwe in late September welcomes the arrival of Migrant birds, another dry month and the landscape scenery can look harsh and very dry during this time, but game viewing is made easy since the vegetation is thin, and animals are gathering at the limited water sources.
The days are bright and clear, with barely a cloud in the sky. This is also time for the annual game count in Hwange National Park is a big event on Zimbabwe’s calendar and gives the travelers visiting Zimbabwe one in a lifetime opportunity to Join the local Hwange rangers as they visit the water holes to count the number of animals passing through.
Visiting Zimbabwe In October
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in October?
Visiting Zimbabwe in October is the hottest month of the year, with day time temperatures sometimes climaxing above 40C. Wildlife sightings are still good for anyone visiting Zimbabwe in October before calling it ends to the dry season.
Visiting Zimbabwe In November
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in November?
Zimbabwe in November is an unpredictable month – can be hot and dry and also can be the start of the rainy season, thus the climate very unpredictable. Although at the beginning, the dryness and intense heat of October could carry on into this month, if the rains arrive ‘on time’, it can be very wet. It’s a good month for birdwatching as the migratory birds arrive with the rains.
Visiting Zimbabwe In December
Travelling for Zimbabwe safari in December?
Zimbabwe in December is the wettest month, characterized by short but often dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. Nights and mornings are warm at around 18°C/64°F with plenty of summer rain, greenly lush landscapes, it’s a great time for birdwatching.
During this safari month, keep Victoria Falls out of your list of things to do in Zimbabwe. It’s not the best time to visit for wildlife viewing, and Mana Pools National Park as well as roads in some other parks might be closed. The only benefit of visiting Zimbabwe over this period is that most of the safari lodges in Zimbabwe and game parks are less crowded and offer best safari prices.
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Ready to Start Planning Your Visit to Zimbabwe?
Not yet close to finding your best time to travel to Zimbabwe? Worry not, chat with someone who’s been there. Get in touch with one of our African safari experts to help tailor-make a trip that’s right for you.
Discover Kenya Holiday Safaris
When it comes to choosing the best places for an African safari, it’s difficult to beat a safari to Kenya’s national parks and conservancies. Kenya delivers some of the best African safaris so far, from unforgettable African family safaris with child-friendly safari lodges to exclusive hide-outs for couples and honeymoon trips, there’s not much that beats a Kenya safari.
9 Days | 8 Nights
Frequently Asked Zimbabwe Holiday Safari Questions
Q. Passport, Visa & Other Kenya Entry Requirements
As for the documentations you need for your holiday in Kenya, keep in mind entry requirements can change, so please contact your local Kenyan embassy or high commission to verify that the following information below is up to date.
-A passport is required for all foreign visitors and must be valid for at least six months.
-No visa is required. Instead, all visitors must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).
-Visitors must apply in advance for the eTA on www.etakenya.go.ke.
-The standard processing time is three days, but you can apply up to three months prior to travel and early application is recommended.
-When arriving from a yellow-fever-infected country in Africa or the Americas, a yellow-fever vaccination certificate is required.
-For more information we strongly direct checking the website of your local Kenyan embassy/high commission or the government travel advisories below:
Australia – www.smartraveller.gov.au
Canada – travel.gc.ca
EU Member States – ec.europa.eu
Ireland – www.ireland.ie
New Zealand – www.safetravel.govt.nz
United Kingdom – www.gov.uk
United States – travel.state.gov
Q. How much does a safari in Kenya cost?
The cost for a Kenya safari starts from USD $250 to USD $2,500 per person per day depending on your level of safari; either travelling on a mid-range comfort safari or a luxury Kenya safari. Talk to one of our African travel experts to ensure the best Kenya safari experience in line with your time and budget. Your final Kenya safari cost depends on the following factors:
– Time of year you’re travelling; low and high season prices.
– Your choice of luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps.
– Duration of your stay in Kenya.
– Where you are visiting and in what means, you have the option to choose between fly-in Kenya safaris or by road, using a comfy 4 X 4 Land Cruiser jeep with open rooftop. The cost for the two greatly differ.
– Your choice of additional safari activities which range from inclusive wildlife activities to optional activities like hot air balloon rides and visits to the Masai villages for cultural interactions.
Q. What medication do I need for Kenya safari?
About medicine on your trip to Kenya, we recommend anti-malarial medication no matter what time of year you plan on visiting Kenya for safari. Kindly consult with your doctor at home for advice on the right choice of prophylaxis for your body well in advance of your departure date. Additionally, if you live in a yellow fever region or plan to travel through a region where it is endemic during your stay, you will need a yellow fever vaccination and certificate.
Q. Where to stay on safari in Kenya
With hundreds of excellent luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps, you will be spoilt with lots of choices to pick from during your stay. But worry not, we will help you select the best lodges to stay in during your trip.
Additionally, when we talk about safari standards, the service level is high, with the ability to deliver the best luxury African safaris, suitable accommodations from lavish safari lodges to modern day boutique hotels and classic tented safari camps.
We shall share our list of top luxury accommodation options in Kenya – from eco-friendly architecture to the best luxury tented camps with a front-row seat to experience African wildlife mostly near game viewing hot spots like the Mara River where the Wildebeest Migration safari takes place. Our list of the best Kenya safari lodges also covers mid-range camps which can come in handy If you are travelling on budget.
Q. Where are the places to visit in Kenya?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
Zimbabwe Safari Reservations
Q. What type of clothes do I wear on Kenya safari?
Pack lightweight, comfortable, and casual clothing for a Kenyan safari, including long sleeves, pants, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and layers for cooler mornings and evenings on game drives. For more details, we suggest you do your own safari packing essentials and find out what fits your interests.
Browse our safari clothing packing advice on what to pack for your African tour:
- Lightweight trousers /shorts and t-shirts remain ideal for the daytime drives.
- Lightweight jacket / fleece for the early mornings and evenings.
- Remember to also pack some warm socks and a woolly hat would be suggested for early morning and evening game drives.
- Hiking shoes
Other items we would suggest you bring along with you include:
- Sunscreen glasses & hat/cap
- Comfy Shoes / Sandals
- Flip Flops to wear during the day
- A Torch / Lamp
- Binoculars
- Phone/laptop charger
- Pack your medication, and a spare set of spectacles or contact lenses if you wear these.
Q. What is the best time to see the Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya?
The best time to witness the dramatic Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya is typically between mid-July through mid-September where your chances of witnessing a river crossing are generally much higher. In early October marks the end of the herd crossing the river from Kenya down into Tanzania, as thunderstorms begin in the north the herds will embark on their return journey back to the Serengeti.
Checkout our Migration safari offers.
Q. Kenya Vs Tanzania: Which Is Better for an African Safari?
Choosing between Kenya and Tanzania for an African safari depends on personal preferences, BUT Kenya is the most chosen being cost & budget friendly during both high and low seasons. Secondly, when it comes to the best places to stay in Kenya and Tanzania, both destinations offer fantastic accommodations. Thirdly in terms of Big 5 sightings, the wildebeest migration & general game viewing, both destinations are safari heavyweights. In terms of privacy and extending your safari beyond game drives, there are more private conservancies in Kenya than Tanzania which offer you plenty of activities inside the park.
Lastly, Kenya safari is the most sought-after destination for the world’s best safari experiences, evident from the large number of celebrities visiting year in year out.
Q. Will I have a private vehicle or shared game drives with other people?
We tend to enforce a maximum person per vehicle policy of 6. Meaning, although you’ll be sharing with other guests, everyone will get a side-view seat with unhindered views.
Some trips are designed in such a way that a private vehicle and guide are included for a portion of the trip, but the use of a private vehicle throughout your safari comes at an additional cost.
Africa Flying Safaris
Q. How many days do you need for an Africa safari?
The ideal duration for an East Africa safari package often ranges from 5 to 14 days, this allows you to enjoy a comfortable and a well-rounded rewarding safari experience during this African tour package. It also depends on the destinations you will visit, wildlife interests, and personal preferences.
Q. What do I do in case of an emergency?
We have a 24 hour emergency line. If anything goes south, we’re ready to assist you regardless of time or date.
Q. Are there malaria mosquito nets in Africa safari tented camps?
Many tented camps in Africa provide fitted mosquito nets in all rooms which are also insect proofed to protect you against malaria mosquito bites and other insect bites, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay.
It’s also advisable to carry insect repellent to further protect yourself especially in the outdoors during evenings.
Q. Is there Wi-Fi at the safari lodges & tented camps on safari?
Almost all Africa safari lodges and tented camp accommodations during your safari provide free Wi-Fi. You’ll find this available in all three accommodation levels – comfort or luxury accommodations.
Wi-Fi is provided in the public areas of the safari lodges/tented camps including the reception, dining areas, and lounge. It is not provided in the individual rooms/tents.
Moreover, because you will be inside a wilderness park, we still request that you come prepared with your own network data to avoid any inconveniences.
Zimbabwe Safari Payment Methods
Q. Do you provide drinking water on safari?
East Africa is within the tropics and near the Equator, separating the northern and southern hemispheres. The tropical temperatures are relatively high on the safari route and even within the national parks/game reserves.
Because you’ll need to frequently hydrate during your safari, we ensure unlimited supplies of drinking water.
All Vulture Africa Safari vehicles are fitted with a cooler box or mini fridge with a constant supply of cool, bottled water.
We replenish our supplies of drinking water during stops along the safari route.
Here’s everything you need to know about packing for your Africa safari trip.
Q. Are mosquito nets provided in safari lodge rooms/tents?
We carefully research and choose our selection of top safari lodges and tented camps to offer the best in terms of comfort, relaxation, amenities, and atmosphere during your safari.
We fully understand the need for your protection against mosquitos and other insects.
All rooms/tents during your safari are fitted with mosquito nets or are insect-proofed to protect you against bites.
Tented camp showing bedroom with mosquito nets
You are also advised to use insect repellent to further protect yourself especially outdoors in the evenings.
Q. Is it possible to store excess luggage while on safari?
Vulture African Safaris understands that your holiday travel may be lengthy and could involve different activities during your trip. You may find the need to store some of your luggage at various times.
You can safely store your extra luggage at our Nairobi office for safekeeping until you have completed your safari.
This is a free service extended to all our safari guests.
Packing luggage for an East African safari holiday tour
Additionally, our 4×4 safari Jeeps accommodate generous luggage space in its rear luggage compartment.
Q. Do you handle requests for special dietary needs?
Kenya and Tanzania welcomes visitors from all over the world and their diverse diet preferences. These preferences may be due to religious beliefs, lifestyles, or health concerns.
The menus in all safari lodges & tented camps are continental cuisine however, vegetarian, kosher, halal, gluten-free, etc. meals are also provided.
We request you indicate your special diet needs during safari booking/confirmation.
Why Book Your Safari in Advance?
Q. Do you provide airport hotel airport transfers when we arrive and depart Nairobi?
As part of our safari tour services, Vulture African Safaris provides free pickup and return to the airport/hotel for any guests who are booked for a 3-day or more safari tour with us.
The transfers are provided even if you arrive or depart several days before or after your safari start/end.
Please let us know your arrival & departure flight details including airline codes and arrival/departure times. We will provide you with the name of your driver and telephone contact in advance of your arrival/departure.
Q. Do you book or can you recommend a Nairobi hotel for our pre or post-safari stay?
If you are arriving in Nairobi earlier than your safari starting date or are intending to stay a few days more after your safari finish, you will require a Nairobi hotel.
Our listed safari tours and advertised prices do not include your Nairobi hotel.
Nairobi has a wide range of hotels in the economy, comfort, and luxury categories suitable for your 1 night or extended stay.
As part of your safari tour, Vulture Africa Safaris will pick you up at the airport and bring you to your respective Nairobi hotel or residence. This includes most areas around Nairobi.
We suggest that you look up and book online your preferred Nairobi hotel. If you should require advice, suggestions, or booking assistance for your Nairobi hotel, we will be happy to assist.
We can make suggestions depending on your budget and what area of the city you are interested in staying.
Q. Can we purchase a local Sim card for use while in Kenya?
A Kenyan Sim card will greatly reduce your telephone roaming bills during your visit and while on safari in Kenya
1 GB of data costs an average of $5.
Safaricom, a telco provider in Kenya is the market leader with the best national coverage and better deals.
Sim cards can be purchased from official stores or approved resellers. You can purchase them at the Nairobi airport upon arrival. Cost is approximately $1 or Ksh.100
To purchase local sim cards, you are required to have a Sim-unlocked GSM-compatible phone.
Q. What are your recommended safari tipping guidelines?
Tipping in guidelines for Kenya and Tanzania safaris – although not mandatory, is expected in return for good service.
All hotels, lodges, and porterage gratuities are included in the cost of your safari – these are collectively referred to as the service charge.
You may also decide to tip individual waiters, porters, and other hotel service employees who provide exemplary service. Usually, $1 – $5 per meal or move is appropriate and appreciated.
It is, however, customary to tip your safari driver/guide at the end of the safari tour. The amount is dependent on your evaluation of the quality of the service rendered. An average of $10 per guest per day or 5-10% of your safari-only cost is suggested. However, the amount is at your discretion – you are welcome to provide additional compensation to any staffer who has provided special services. A bar gratuity of $1 is acceptable.
You may tip in Kenya shillings, USD, or in Euro at the end of your safari and preferably in an envelope.