Best time to visit Zambia

Zambia is a true gem of Africa, a land of untamed wilderness, thundering waterfalls, and some of the continent’s most incredible wildlife. But when is the best time to visit this remarkable country? With distinct wet and dry seasons, Zambia offers a diverse range of experiences depending on the time of year.

In this comprehensive Best time to visit Zambia guide, we’ll take you through the highlights of each season, from the lush green landscapes of the summer rains to the unparalleled game viewing of the dry winter months. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding adventure, breathtaking natural wonders, or the chance to spot the Big Five, Zambia has something to offer every type of traveler. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the magic of this underrated African gem with Nextgen Safaris.

Best time to visit Zambia

The Dry Season (May to October)

May to June: The Shoulder Season

As the rains subside and the landscape begins to dry out, Zambia enters its shoulder season from May to June. This is a fantastic time to visit, offering a perfect balance of value, fewer crowds, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Why Visit in May-June?

Fewer Crowds, Better Prices: With the peak season just around the corner, May and June see fewer visitors to Zambia’s national parks and safari camps. This translates to more availability, lower prices, and a more intimate safari experience. It’s the perfect time to score deals on luxury lodges and enjoy the parks without the hustle and bustle of high season.

Spectacular Landscapes: As the rains subside, the landscape transforms into a lush, verdant wonderland. The Zambezi River is still flowing strong, making for breathtaking views at Victoria Falls. In the national parks, the vegetation is thick and green, providing stunning backdrops for your wildlife encounters.

Excellent Game Viewing: While the peak of the dry season is still a few months away, game viewing during the shoulder season is already superb. Animals are beginning to congregate around permanent water sources, making them easier to spot. You’ll have the chance to see a wide variety of species, from elephants and lions to the elusive leopard.

Ideal for Walking Safaris: The cooler temperatures and receding vegetation make May and June an excellent time for walking safaris. Explore the bush on foot and get up-close-and-personal with Zambia’s wildlife, led by expert guides who will share their deep knowledge of the local ecosystem.

Fewer Mosquitoes: As the dry season sets in, the mosquito population begins to dwindle, providing a more comfortable safari experience. This is a welcome respite, especially for those sensitive to bug bites.

Where to Go in May-June

South Luangwa National Park: This iconic park is a prime destination during the shoulder season, offering exceptional game viewing along the Luangwa River. Spot elephants, leopards, and the famous Thornicroft’s giraffe, and enjoy walking safaris led by some of the best guides in the business.

Lower Zambezi National Park: Located along the mighty Zambezi River, the Lower Zambezi is a haven for wildlife, particularly large herds of elephant and buffalo. May and June are ideal for canoeing safaris, allowing you to get up close with the animals as they come to the river to drink.

Kafue National Park: The vast and diverse Kafue National Park is a hidden gem, and the shoulder season is a fantastic time to explore its remote corners. Head to the Busanga Plains in the north, where you’ll find large concentrations of wildlife, including the elusive cheetah.

July to September: The Peak Dry Season

As the dry season reaches its peak, Zambia transforms into a wildlife wonderland. From July to September, the country offers some of the best safari experiences on the continent, with unparalleled game viewing and iconic natural wonders.

Why Visit in July-September?

Exceptional Game Viewing: The dry season is prime time for wildlife spotting in Zambia. As the landscape dries out, animals are forced to congregate around the remaining water sources, making them easier to locate and observe. You’ll have the chance to see the Big Five, as well as a wealth of other species, including the rare African wild dog.

Ideal Weather: The weather during the peak dry season is simply divine. Daytime temperatures are warm and comfortable, with cool, crisp mornings and evenings. The lack of rain means you can enjoy your safari activities without the worry of getting caught in a downpour.

Victoria Falls at Its Best: One of Zambia’s most famous attractions, Victoria Falls, is at its most impressive during the dry season. From July to August, the falls are in full flow, with the Zambezi River thundering over the edge in a spectacular display of power and beauty.

Fewer Crowds: While July and August are the busiest months in Zambia, the parks and safari camps are still relatively uncrowded compared to other top African destinations. You’ll be able to enjoy your safari experience without the hassle of large tour groups.

Excellent Photographic Opportunities: The dry, clear conditions and lush, green vegetation provide the perfect backdrop for stunning wildlife photography. Capture the majesty of the Big Five, the drama of a river crossing, or the serene beauty of a sunset over the Zambezi.

Where to Go in July-September

South Luangwa National Park: This is the crown jewel of Zambia’s national parks, offering some of the best game viewing in the country. From July to September, the park is teeming with wildlife, including large herds of elephants, buffalo, and the elusive leopard.

Lower Zambezi National Park: Located along the mighty Zambezi River, the Lower Zambezi is a prime destination for both land and water-based safaris. Enjoy thrilling boat and canoe excursions, as well as classic game drives, in search of the park’s abundant wildlife.

Kafue National Park: The vast and diverse Kafue National Park is a true hidden gem, and the dry season is the perfect time to explore its remote corners. Head to the Busanga Plains in the north, where you’ll find large concentrations of wildlife, including the elusive cheetah.

Victoria Falls: No visit to Zambia would be complete without a trip to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. From July to August, the falls are in full flow, creating a thunderous display that will leave you in awe.

October: The Hot Dry Season

As the dry season reaches its climax, Zambia enters the hottest and driest time of the year in October. While the weather can be challenging, this is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an immersive safari experience.

Why Visit in October?

Incredible Wildlife Sightings: October is the height of the dry season, and the animals are forced to congregate around the few remaining water sources. This makes for exceptional game viewing, as you’ll have the chance to see large herds of elephants, buffalo, and other species gathered at the watering holes.

Fewer Crowds: While the weather may be hot, October is considered the shoulder season in Zambia, meaning fewer crowds and more availability at the top safari camps and lodges. This translates to a more intimate and exclusive safari experience.

Unique Photographic Opportunities: The harsh, dry conditions of October provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography. Capture the drama of animals fighting for access to dwindling water sources, or the silhouettes of baobab trees against a blazing sunset.

Excellent Fishing: For anglers, October is prime time for tiger fishing on Lake Kariba and the Zambezi River. Cast your line and try to reel in these powerful, acrobatic fish.

White-Water Rafting: As the water levels in the Zambezi River drop, the rapids become more intense, making October an excellent time for white-water rafting adventures near Victoria Falls.

Where to Go in October

South Luangwa National Park: This park is renowned for its exceptional game viewing, and October is no exception. Head out on early morning and late afternoon game drives to spot the Big Five and other wildlife congregating around the Luangwa River.

Lower Zambezi National Park: The Lower Zambezi is a prime destination for both land and water-based safaris. In October, the receding water levels make for thrilling white-water rafting adventures, as well as excellent fishing opportunities.

Kafue National Park: The remote and untamed Kafue National Park is a true gem, and October is an excellent time to explore its diverse landscapes. Head to the Busanga Plains in the north, where you’ll find large concentrations of wildlife, including the elusive cheetah.

Victoria Falls: While the water levels at Victoria Falls may be lower in October, the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder are still awe-inspiring. Enjoy a range of activities, from helicopter rides to white-water rafting, and marvel at the falls’ thunderous roar.

The Wet Season (November to April)

November to April: The Green Season

As the rains return to Zambia, the landscape transforms into a lush, verdant wonderland. While the wet season may not be the best time for traditional safaris, it offers a wealth of unique experiences and exceptional value for travelers.

Why Visit in the Green Season?

Lush, Vibrant Landscapes: The wet season paints Zambia in a stunning palette of greens, from the thick, verdant vegetation to the swollen rivers and streams. The landscape is truly breathtaking, providing a beautiful backdrop for your adventures.

Fewer Crowds, Better Prices: With many safari camps and lodges closed during the wet season, the parks and attractions are far less crowded. This translates to better availability, lower prices, and a more intimate, exclusive experience.

Excellent Birdwatching: The wet season is a birder’s paradise in Zambia. Migratory birds flock to the lush, green landscapes, and you’ll have the chance to spot a wide variety of species, from vibrant kingfishers to majestic birds of prey.

Unique Wildlife Encounters: While traditional game viewing may be more challenging, the wet season offers opportunities to witness unique wildlife behavior. Observe the dramatic wildebeest migration in Liuwa Plain National Park or the incredible bat migration in Kasanka National Park.

Victoria Falls at Its Most Powerful: During the wet season, the Zambezi River is at its fullest, and Victoria Falls is in full, thunderous flow. Experience the sheer power and majesty of this natural wonder as it roars to life.

Where to Go in the Green Season

South Luangwa National Park: While many of the remote bush camps are closed, the Mfuwe section of South Luangwa remains open year-round, offering excellent birdwatching and the chance to spot wildlife along the Luangwa River.

Liuwa Plain National Park: This remote and untamed park is a true gem, and the wet season is the best time to witness the dramatic wildebeest migration. Observe these majestic animals as they gather in huge herds and give birth to their young.

Kasanka National Park: Home to the world’s largest mammalian migration, Kasanka National Park is a must-visit during the wet season. Witness the incredible spectacle of up to 10 million straw-colored fruit bats as they descend on the park.

Victoria Falls: The wet season is the best time to experience the full power and majesty of Victoria Falls. Marvel at the thunderous roar and the towering plumes of mist as the Zambezi River reaches its peak.

When to Go: A Month-by-Month Guide

Now that you have a general understanding of the best times to visit Zambia, let’s dive into a more detailed month-by-month breakdown to help you plan your perfect trip.

January

Weather: The height of the rainy season, with heavy downpours and high humidity.
Wildlife: Challenging for traditional game viewing, as animals are dispersed throughout the lush, green landscapes.
Highlights: Excellent birdwatching, with migratory species in abundance. Witness the dramatic wildebeest migration in Liuwa Plain National Park.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park (Mfuwe section), Liuwa Plain National Park.

February

Weather: Continued heavy rains and high humidity.
Wildlife: Similar to January, with wildlife dispersed and difficult to spot.
Highlights: Superb birdwatching, with the chance to see migratory species. Witness the wildebeest migration in Liuwa Plain.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park (Mfuwe section), Liuwa Plain National Park.

March

Weather: The rainy season begins to wind down, with fewer but heavier downpours.
Wildlife: Game viewing remains challenging, but you may start to see more animals congregating around water sources.
Highlights: Excellent birdwatching, with the chance to see migratory species. Witness the wildebeest migration in Liuwa Plain.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park (Mfuwe section), Liuwa Plain National Park.

April

Weather: The rains are tapering off, and the landscape is lush and green.
Wildlife: Game viewing starts to improve as animals congregate around water sources, but it’s still not at its peak.
Highlights: Excellent value on safari packages, as it’s the shoulder season. Superb birdwatching.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park.

May

Weather: The dry season is beginning, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall.
Wildlife: Game viewing starts to improve, with animals becoming more visible as the vegetation thins out.
Highlights: Excellent value on safari packages, as it’s the shoulder season. Ideal for walking safaris.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park.

June

Weather: Dry and cool, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Wildlife: Exceptional game viewing, as animals congregate around water sources. The best time for traditional safaris.
Highlights: The start of peak safari season. Ideal for walking safaris and canoeing.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park.

July

Weather: Dry and cool, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
Wildlife: Unparalleled game viewing, with the best chances of spotting the Big Five.
Highlights: Peak safari season. Witness the full power of Victoria Falls.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park, Victoria Falls.

August

Weather: Dry and warm, with temperatures starting to rise.
Wildlife: Exceptional game viewing, as animals continue to congregate around water sources.
Highlights: Peak safari season. Witness the full power of Victoria Falls.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park, Victoria Falls.

September

Weather: Hot and dry, with temperatures reaching their peak.
Wildlife: Incredible game viewing, as animals are forced to gather around the few remaining water sources.
Highlights: Excellent photographic opportunities due to the dry conditions. Superb fishing on Lake Kariba.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park.

October

Weather: Extremely hot and dry, with temperatures reaching their highest.
Wildlife: Phenomenal game viewing, as animals congregate around the dwindling water sources.
Highlights: Unique photographic opportunities, excellent fishing, and thrilling white-water rafting.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park, Victoria Falls.

November

Weather: The rainy season begins, with increasing humidity and occasional downpours.
Wildlife: Game viewing becomes more challenging as the animals disperse, but birdwatching is excellent.
Highlights: Witness the incredible bat migration in Kasanka National Park. Explore the lush, green landscapes.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park (Mfuwe section), Kasanka National Park.

December

Weather: The height of the rainy season, with heavy downpours and high humidity.
Wildlife: Difficult for traditional game viewing, as animals are dispersed throughout the lush, green landscapes.
Highlights: Excellent birdwatching, with migratory species in abundance. Witness the wildebeest migration in Liuwa Plain National Park.
Where to Go: South Luangwa National Park (Mfuwe section), Liuwa Plain National Park.

GENERAL INFORMATION

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

All visitors to Victoria Falls must have a valid passport with at least 4 consecutive blanks pages. The Government of Tanzania has rolled out an online Visa application portal accessible on internet. Any applicable visa and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveler. For further information on Visa requirements visitors are advised to contact their nearest Zimbabwe Embassy or Consulate.

LANGUAGE: English

TIME: GMT +3

CLIMATE: Southern Africa climate is predominantly tropical. The long rains are from mid-March to late May and the short rains from November to January. The hottest months are from October to February and the coolest months are June to August.

VOLTAGE: 220 Volts/AC50Hz. Sockets are UK style, 3 pin square plugs. Power is from the National Grid in the city/major towns and generator with inverter back up in the Safari Lodges and Camps.

CURRENCY: Foreign currency must be changed at the Bank, Bureau de Change, and Hotel/Safari lodge/Camp/Resort. Major Credit Cards, Master card, Visa, American Express, are usually accepted throughout the country. Where credit cards are accepted, the payment will normally be recorded in US$ regardless of the card’s default currency. However, US$ older than 2009 are only accepted

CLOTHING: Dress is mainly informal and should be comfortable as well as practical. Something warm should be brought along for early morning and evenings. Safari clothes are available from hotels/lodges/camps.

BAGGAGE: Where possible, travel light. Baggage space on safari is limited to medium suitcase or soft bag per person plus reasonable amount of hand luggage. There is 15 Kilogram per person limit on all flights to the wildlife sanctuaries. Excess luggage must be stored in your arrival hotel.

WATER: You will find many different of opinion of what is safe and what is not. We recommend for peace of mind, to drink local Bottled Mineral water. It is important to drink plenty of water especially during the hotter months. We would recommend that guests drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.

HEALTH: Southern Africa is a safe and secure destination; however, it is a good idea to take a few precautions. Kindly consult your GP or local doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel, with regards:

Malaria prophylactics. East Africa is a known malaria area and preventive measures are essential. You are advised to take one of the recommended anti-malarial drugs. Be sure to wear long sleeved shorts and trousers after sunset and spray the exposed parts of your body with a mosquito repellent spray. The hotels provide mosquito repellent sachets as part of the room’s amenities in all our locations.

Remember to protect yourself from direct sun rays with sunscreen cream or safari hat.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: For those guests with specific dietary requirement, please ensure Imbasa is notified prior to travel so that the respective Hotels and Lodges are informed

GRATUITIES: As a guideline and dependent on how happy you are, we would suggest the following:

The General Hotel/Lodge/Camp Staff – Approximately U$ 10.00 per person per day

Driver Guides – Approximately US$ 15.00 to US$ 20.00 per person per day

PHOTOGRAPHY: Please be careful when photographing public buildings, airports, bridges, the national flag and people in uniform. Ensure that you have sought permission before photographing local people and their villages. If in doubt, please check with your guide.

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