When to visit Zambia

The best time to visit Zambia is during the dry dry season between August and November. Zambia is a relatively temperate country, although the climate can range from 21°C or 70°F to 31°C or 88°F depending on the altitude, which generally varies between 1,000 and 1,600 metres - largely dictated by the valleys of the Zambezi, Kafue and Luangwa Rivers. The recognised best times to visit Zambia are during the dry season, and unlike other busier destinations in East and Southern Africa the numbers of visitors are small, so this need not be a major consideration when planning your journey as it never feels busy and the scenery is spectacular at any time of year. From day to night, the temperatures can drop quite dramatically, no matter what time of the year you are travelling, but especially in the months of June and July.

The famous Victoria Falls is one of Zambia's treasures, and the dry season from August to November is the finest time to experience its majestic magnificence. The Zambezi River's water levels are lower during these months, providing breathtaking vistas of the falls and typically permitting activities like swimming at Devil's Pool. The dry season allows for exciting excursions like walking along the Knife-Edge Bridge and gives a clearer perspective of the geological wonder. Victoria Falls can be visited at any time of year, but the dry season offers the best chance to appreciate this natural wonder. Zambia is always beautiful.

July - October

The traditional dry season in Zambia, this is the most comfortable time temperature wise, and also the most popular. The temperatures gradually build as you move into September and October, with some areas such as Luangwa Valley and Lower Zambezi in particular feeling the heat, but with animals seeking water along the river banks the game viewing can be phenomenal.

November - April - June

These ‘shoulder’ months are still great times to visit, as they can be less busy and between seasons which can mean pleasant weather. November is a hard month to predict and you might have a completely dry month or see the first rains fall heading into the wet season. April to June is a verdant landscape and most of the rain will have stopped, especially so in May/June. This is also an ideal time to visit Victoria Falls.

December - March

The wet season, when the scenery is stunning and prices of accommodation are generally much lower. However, it is not ideal for everybody as weather can vary hugely within the same day. Waterproofs are required, but the rains are short lived, meaning that it does not prevent you from enjoying activities over long periods, except perhaps for some travel on minor roads. Generally the rain arrives quicker and subsides later the further north you are, and the east experiences more rainfall than the west. Some camps are known to close so consult us if you are unsure.

If you want to see the bat migration, travel to Zambia in November to December sees up to ten million fruit bats descend upon Kasanka National Park.

If you want to see herds of wildebeest, travel to Zambia during November when the large herds gather in the Liuwa Plains to make the most of the fresh grazing.

Travel to Zambia from July to October for the best conditions to spot big cats and other predators.

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Discover the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, which are home to a variety of plants and birds and are located on the banks of Lake Victoria.

Kafue River

Take advantage of the Kafue River's famed tiger fish and wildlife by fishing and birdwatching there.

Kasanka National Park

Visit Kasanka National Park to witness the annual bat migration, when millions of fruit bats congregate in a stunning natural spectacle.

Livingstone Island

Get an opportunity to swim in the Devil's Pool, a natural infinity pool on the edge of Victoria Falls, by taking a guided tour to Livingstone Island.