Weather conditions and visible changes on the physical terrain in Zimbabwe
Climate Type: Savannah
Attractions:
Climate Type: Savannah
Attractions: Zimbabwe is home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, a gift that rightfully crowns Zimbabwe as a bucket list travel destination of choice among the few. Traditionally known by our forefathers as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning the smoke that thunders. It is not called the adventure capital of Africa for nothing
Zimbabwe has a mix of cultures intertwined with invigorating and naturally stimulating activities at the modern traveller’s disposal. Its offerings include a rich mix of historical sites, medieval city ruins of the Great Zimbabwe kingdom, rock painting of the san people, the majestic balancing rocks of the Matobo national park and the breath taking views of the eastern highlands. Zimbabwe has eleven National Parks, each of which offer vastly contrasting and fulfilling wilderness experiences that deliver a wide eyed awe experience in a natural setting. Information on the general weather conditions around Zimbabwe and the changes in the environment in the national parks to follow:
Green Season: December-March. Temp Range 20°-32°
This is the official rainy season characterised by consistent showers building from the short transitional month of November. Day time temperatures may still reach high 20s but the consistent rain provides great relief. January -
Sightings & Wildlife Movements: The large herds of elephant Migrate deeper in Game park areas as the rains offer alternative water sources deeper in the game parks but the presence of older bulls and smaller herds around waterholes remains frequent in the game parks that they inhabit. The territorial Lions are still the most frequently seen predators patrolling their surrounding territory. Great opportunity for Birding as the mix of different species comes into breeding season. Growing number of baby impala visible around national park areas, young antelope mostly in January. Exceptional photographic excursions with everything full of colour and new life in abundance
Recommended clothing to pack: light clothes for the day, a sun hat; a sweatshirt and a spring jacket for the evening.
Transitional Season/ Mid-season: April-June Temp Range 5°-28°
As April begins there is a transitional shift from the frequent rain spells to the cooler and dry conditions. Temperatures start to drop but the days are characterised by warmer day time temperatures with erratic to no rainfall as the month progresses and a significant drop in temperatures at the beginning of May. The vegetation is still green
Sightings & Wildlife movements: The large Herds of Elephant and Buffalo are still deep in the game park areas in May but the presence of older bulls and smaller herds around the waterholes remains frequent. As June arrives the winter is in full swing and most animals remain in thicker bushes. Lions still remain the most visible predator, birding still great at this time. Surface water is drying up/has dried up causing the animals to migrate towards permanent waterholes.
Recommended clothing to pack: Very warm clothes for cold mornings and evenings.
High Season: July- October Temp Range: 5°-36°
The official winter period is almost over and temperatures rise steady from minimums of 5 -15 as August and September approach. Temperatures rise significantly in August and peak in October which is the hottest month in Zimbabwe and surrounding territories. The dry season is in full swing between the months of August to October however mornings are still generally cold but daytime temperatures are significantly warmer.
Sightings & Wildlife movements: Large herds of Elephant and Buffalo begin to form around National Park waterholes. Surface water deep within the park is in short supply and Zebras, Impala, Kudu are frequently seen at waterholes. Wildlife is easier to spot during this period. The rich diversity of wildlife in National Park areas are visible with all kinds of animals gathering at the waterholes. October is the best month for wildlife viewing as this is the peak of the dry season.
Recommended clothing to pack: light clothes for the day, a sun hat; and a light jacket in case there is significant drop in temperatures especially in the mornings.
Further recommendations will be made upon booking to match the prevailing conditions during the specific time of your visit.
