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Best Time To Visit Zambia

Kafue Flats lechwe (Kobus leche kafuensis) running in the water on the plains, Zambia, Africa
Victoria falls, surrounding area is the National Parks and World Heritage Site (aerial view) - Zambia, Zimbabwe, Africa
Elephant herd crossing Luangwa river in Zambia, in sepia, Africa
Elephant herd crossing Luangwa river
Leopard in the South Luangwa NP, Zambia, Africa
Beautiful view on elephants crossing Luangwa river, South Luangwa, Zambia, Africa
portrait of a female african lion walking through the gras while the sun is rising in botswana, Africa - Zambia travel guide
Zebra's running into the wilderness, Zambia, Africa
African elephants (Loxodonta africana) drinking at the River Shire in Liwonde National Park, Malawi, Africa
Bird eye view of the Victoria falls waterfall on Zambezi river, Africa
Overview
Best Time to Visit
Tours
Things To Do
Travel Guide

An overview of Zambia’s seasons

Zambia country has a sub-tropical climate with pleasant temperatures due to its high altitude. The temperatures average around 68°F in the highlands and around 75°F in the valleys. The cool, dry season, from May to August, is considered the best time to visit Zambia.

Best Time To Visit

Most Ideal
Low Season

overview

This is peak rainy season in Zambia and not the ideal time to visit the country. And owing to the downpours, many of the roads in the parks are filled with mud and slush, making driving and walking extremely difficult. Several camps and lodges close around this time so do factor that in while making your plans.

we recommend

  • The water flow over the Victoria Falls is high around this time – head here to marvel at the thundering waterfall with spray that can be seen from miles away!

overview

The heavy rains continue through February, once again making this one of the least popular months to visit Zambia.

we recommend

  • The wet or green season is an excellent time for birdwatching, so depending on which parks are open during this time, you could head for a spot of birdwatching

overview

March is largely wet, making travel difficult. This is the time the Zambezi river in full spate, making for a magnificent sight at the Victoria Falls.

we recommend

  • If you are planning to visit Victoria Falls around this time, spend time in the charming city of Livingstone

overview

The rains continue through April, but expect them to gradually reduce towards the end of the month. Road conditions still remain slushy and muddy in most of the parks so do factor that in should you be visiting around this time.

we recommend

  • View the magnificent Victoria Falls on a helicopter ride!

overview

With the rain abating in May, several of the lodges and parks that would have closed for the wet season, gradually open up. But be prepared for muddy conditions afoot! The landscape will be lush green at this time and while it makes for great photographic opportunities, wildlife spotting isn’t the easiest at this time.

we recommend

  • This is the start of the fishing season in Zambia, so why not try your hand at catching some fish?

overview

This is one of the best times to visit Zambia. With the rains having just abated, the temperatures are still cool, averaging around 77°F during the day. The crisp, clear conditions make this one of the ideal times to head for a walking safari!

we recommend

  • Head to the remote Luambe National Park, which is rich in biodiversity
  • This is the ideal time to visit Bangweulu to try and spot the rare shoebill stork

overview

This is high season in Zambia. All the parks are open, the vegetation is thinning and wildlife spotting is at its peak!

we recommend

  • Explore the wilderness that is South Luangwa National Park on a walking safaris
  • Relax with a river cruise on the Zambezi followed by a luxurious stay on a private island on the river

overview

Cool, dry conditions extend into August making this a great month to travel to Zambia. The mornings are cool, but the days can get warm, especially towards the end of the month, with highs touching the late 80s. This is also the time the Likumbi Lya Mize Ceremony takes place in Zambezi towards the end of the month, providing a unique glimpse into the cultural traditions of the local peoples.

we recommend

  • Explore the extensive landscapes, and encounter wildlife during your safari in Kafue National Park
  • With the flow of the Zambezi river decreasing, August is a good month to go white-water rafting on the Zambezi!

overview

Cool dry conditions give way to hot and even drier conditions as temperatures start increasing through the month. Towards the end of October, the highs can reach the mid 90s so come equipped with a sun hat and sunscreen should you visit at that time!

we recommend

  • Embark on a walking safari in the remote North Luangwa
  • Marvel at the colorful southern-carmine bee-eaters that swarm Luangwa River at this time

overview

This is one of the hotter months, especially in the low-lying regions where temperatures can touch the 110°F! Wildlife sightings are still good, and this is also the start of crocodile nesting season.

we recommend

  • Experience exciting wildlife safaris in the Lower Zambezi National Park

overview

As with many parts of Africa, November is an unpredictable month weather wise. While temperatures remain high, the rains can arrive anytime, which usually affects wildlife viewing conditions and can make traveling in the parks extremely difficult with slushy conditions.

we recommend

  • Hike or go horseback riding in Shiwa Ngandu, a beautiful lake surrounded by a hilly countryside
  • Head to nearby Chusa Falls for rafting and birdwatching

overview

December marks the start of Zambia’s rainy season. The temperatures during the day will still average in the late 80s so expect conditions to be hot and humid. Several camps and lodges do close around this time so factor that in your plans as well.

we recommend

  • December is excellent for birdwatching as the migratory birds return around this time!

Best time to visit Zambia by season

The cool, dry season, from May to August, is considered to be the best travel time for Zambia when temperatures are around 73°F. At night it gets relatively fresh, falling to about 42°F. The rivers and waterholes are filled by the rainy season and attract numerous wild animals. Particularly great animal observations are possible in June and August. Many roads to remote regions are only passable during the cool dry season. During the hot dry season, especially from October, the temperatures and also the humidity increase noticeably.

In mid-November, the rainy season begins, which is also called the Emerald Season or Green Season. During these hot, humid months, the country shines in green. Many remote areas can no longer be visited and some camps close. Nevertheless, this season has its own charm – and is wonderfully suited for bird watching.

The climate in Zambia is determined by three seasons.

Cool drying time: May – August

Hot dry season: September – November

Rainy season: December – April (South) / October – April (North)

Things to do in Africa

What to Pack for Zambia

The season you travel to Zambia will determine what you need to pack. Based on the time you choose, here is a list of things you should ideally carry: Rain gear including waterproof jacket and shoes, mosquito repellent especially during the rainy season, light clothes for day time and a jacket for cooler evenings, layers of clothing including warm jacket / fleece or jumper, gloves, socks and a scarf, light cotton or linen clothing with natural colors, light shoes and sandals, sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, swimsuit, light jumper for cooler evenings, long sleeved shirts and long trousers are useful for protection from the sun during the day and mosquitoes at night.

Best time to Visit Zambia

Popular Trips to Zambia

Best time to Visit Zambia

Tanzania, Botswana & Zambia: From Kilimanjaro to the Falls

15 Days from $17,190 USD / person

This is the quintessential African safari vacation. The 15-day tour takes you across some of the continent’s best game reserves in Botswana, Tanzania and Zambia. Buckle up as you set out on the safari journey of your dreams, with stops at Arusha, Ngorongoro Plains, Northern Serengeti, Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta and more. Bask in…

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Best time to Visit Zambia

Tanzania, Kenya and Zambia: Safari and Waterfalls

12 Days from $9,690 USD / person

Few things are as awe-inspiring as gazing at the majestic Victoria Falls or witnessing nocturnal life in the Masai Mara. You can experience all that and more on this 12-day tour of Tanzania, Kenya and Zambia. From natural wonders to diverse wildlife and rich culture, this all-encompassing vacation is sure to leave you spellbound. Watch…

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Victoria Falls tour

Botswana: Spectacular Water Worlds

9 Days from $13,690 USD / person

This Zambia and Botswana trip takes you to the most spectacular water worlds in Africa. Start with Victoria Falls, which plummet for over a kilometer. Admire the falls from multiple viewpoints and then take a walking or biking tour to a nearby village. Continue on to Chobe National Park, where you can go on boat…

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Giraffe in South Luangwa, Sambia

Zambia: Victoria Falls and Safari Highlights

13 Days from $20,690 USD / person

Discover an untamed wilderness in Africa’a adventure capital! Enjoy exhilarating adventure sports in Victoria Falls and a variety of aquatic and overland activities amid the floodplains, grasslands and forests of Lower Zambezi National Park. The highlight of your trip is your scintillating walking safaris in South Luangwa – armed with fantastic guides and scouts, experience the…

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Best Places To Visit

Things To Do

From the stunning Victoria Falls to scintillating wildlife safaris and incredible river cruises – Zambia is waiting to be discovered! Follow to this link for an overview on the top ten attractions, activities and highlights in Zambia.

Things To Do in Zambia

Travel Guide

Zambia is a relatively non-commercial safari destination, where you can experience intimate little camps in beautiful and remote reserves. Before you travel, discover all essential details, from visas and currency to health information.

Zambia Travel Guide

From the Blog

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Kafue Flats lechwe (Kobus leche kafuensis) running in the water on the plains
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Rating 5/5
Best time to Visit Zambia
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Best time to Visit Zambia
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USA

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Rating 5/5
Best time to Visit Zambia
Constance Civil

USA

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