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Zambia

When to Travel to Zambia

January to April

Excellent travel time

Good travel time

Fair travel time

Poor travel time

January marks the peak of Zambia’s rainy season with heavy downpours, leading to flooded roadways and some camp closures. February mirrors January’s conditions, making fly-in Safaris preferable for experiencing Zambia’s wet season. In March, rainfall persists, particularly in the north, but it’s an ideal time for birdwatching and lower Zambezi River cruises. Victoria Falls is fullest in March but best viewed from the air due to heavy spray. April offers low accommodation rates and lush scenery, making it great for Safaris despite reduced game visibility.

May & June

May heralds the onset of Zambia’s dry season, optimal for game viewing and enjoying the picturesque landscapes. Some Safari camps reopen, offering excellent opportunities to witness Victoria Falls at its peak. June signals the beginning of peak Safari season, with cooler temperatures ideal for walking safaris, particularly in the Luangwa Valley.

July & August

July is prime time for Zambia Safaris, offering spectacular wildlife viewing despite peak rates at camps. Vegetation is less dense, aiding wildlife spotting, and late July marks the start of white-water rafting season, dependent on prior rainfall. August maintains peak Safari conditions with cool, dry weather and thinning vegetation, ideal for exceptional wildlife encounters. Evaporating surface water sources draw herds to watering holes, particularly notable in South Luangwa National Park, perfect for walking Safaris.

September & October

In September, temperatures rise, offering spectacular birdwatching opportunities with frequent sightings of eagles and storks preying on fish. Afternoon cooling makes it ideal for walking Safaris, with plenty of activities available in Zambia during this month.

October brings relentless heat to Zambia’s low-lying regions. White-water rafting becomes both a thrilling adventure and a refreshing escape from the heat. Lake Kariba is prime for tiger fishing. Victoria Falls on the Zambian side may have little water flow, necessitating a trip to Zimbabwe for the main falls view.

November & December

November offers unpredictable weather as summer rains approach but presents lower accommodation rates, ideal for budget travellers. Additionally, Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration begins in Liuwa Plain National Park around mid-November, showcasing up to 40,000 blue wildebeest. December marks the start of Zambia’s rainy season, with generally cooler temperatures but still warm and humid conditions. Most camps and lodges close due to heavy rainfall and flooding.