Zambia is a fairly temperate country. However, temperatures can vary from 21°C to 70°F to 31°C or 88°F depending on altitude. The valleys of the Zambezi River, Kafue River and Luangwa Rivers dictate the altitude. Zambia is most popular during the dry seasons. This is because unlike some other destinations in East and Southern Africa, it is not crowded and there are many stunning views at all times.
The temperature can drop from day to evening, no matter when you are traveling, but it is especially noticeable in June and July.
When to go by season
July -October
The traditional dry season is Zambia’s most pleasant and popular. The temperature rises as we move into September/October. Luangwa Valley, Lower Zambezi and other areas feel the heat most. But, because animals seek water along river banks, game viewing can be spectacular.
November; April – June
These months can still be great places to visit because they are often less busy than the main season and offer more pleasant weather. November can be difficult to predict. It’s possible that you will experience dry months or even the first rains of the wet seasons. April to June is a lush landscape. The majority of the rain will have stopped in May/June. Victoria Falls is also ideal for this time.
December – February
People believe the best time of year to visit Zambia is the wet season. This is when the scenery is breathtaking and accommodation prices are usually lower. The weather can be unpredictable and it is not for everyone. You will need to have waterproofs, but rains are not very long-lasting, so you can still enjoy activities for longer periods of time, except maybe minor road travel. The east gets more rain than the west, so the rain usually arrives sooner and subsided later. Some camps close. We can help you if you’re unsure.
If you’re looking to see zambia, here are some things to consider.
Bat Migration: Between November and December, Kasanka National Park is visited by up to ten millions of fruit bats.
Wildebeest herds: In November, large numbers of wildebeest flock to Liuwa Plains in order to get the best of fresh grazing.
Hippos: All year. However, large pods are seen at the end of dry season congregating within the pools of the Luangwa’s riverbed.
Migratory birds: The migratory bird season begins in March. It is a dream for bird watchers.
Predators: July through October are the best months to spot the big cats and other predators.
Shoebills: The best time to see the African Shoebills in the Banweulu swamps is May to June.
When should you go for Experience?
Wildlife
The wet seasons are a wonderful time to visit herbivores. The scenery is spectacular, the animals seem healthy, and many give birth during this season. You might be better off visiting the dry season if you are a first safari. This is when animals congregate around watering spots. Bird watching is possible even in the rainy season.
Festivals
Zambia has many festivals, both public and private, that are open all year. Tourists should not attend these events so we recommend speaking with local experts. Kuomboka, located in western Zambia around Easter, is the most prominent. This symbolises the people’s retreat to higher ground after the flood waters.
Kayaking Safaris
The best time to take Zambia safari along the Zambezi river is June-September to avoid the elephant herds.
Victoria Falls
From your birds-eye perspective, you can see the Zambezi thundering over the falls starting in February pt May
Walking safaris
July to October – The dry season in Zambia is when it is most pleasant to be walking temperature-wise.