When to Visit Lusaka
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
Peak wet season with the highest rainfall of the year at 8.3 inches. Temperatures are warm but comfortable with afternoon thunderstorms common. The landscape is lush and green, but outdoor activities may be limited by frequent rain.
February
Continuing wet season with substantial rainfall of 6.6 inches and warm temperatures. Humidity remains high and afternoon storms are frequent. Good time for experiencing Zambia's green season, though travel may be challenging in some areas.
March
Late wet season with decreasing rainfall at 3.4 inches. Temperatures remain stable and pleasant. The landscape is still green and beautiful, with fewer rainy days than earlier wet season months.
April
Transition to dry season with minimal rainfall of 0.8 inches. Temperatures remain comfortable and humidity levels make outdoor activities more pleasant. Excellent time to visit as the landscape is still green from recent rains.
May
Early dry season with virtually no rainfall and cooler temperatures. Days are sunny and pleasant with cool mornings and evenings. Ideal conditions for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources.
June
Peak dry season with no rainfall and the coolest temperatures of the year. Mornings can be quite cool at 51°F while days are pleasantly warm. Perfect weather for all outdoor activities and excellent wildlife viewing conditions.
July
Continued dry season with no rainfall and cool mornings. Despite being winter, days are comfortably warm. This is peak tourist season with excellent conditions for safaris, hiking, and cultural activities.
August
Late dry season with no rainfall and warming temperatures. Days become noticeably warmer while mornings remain cool. Excellent wildlife viewing as animals remain concentrated around permanent water sources.
September
End of dry season with the highest temperatures of the year at 88°F and no rainfall. Days can be quite hot but mornings are still pleasant. Wildlife viewing remains excellent before the rains begin.
October
Pre-rain season with very little rainfall and hot temperatures. The landscape becomes dry and dusty, but wildlife viewing can be spectacular as animals gather at remaining water sources. Heat can be intense during midday.
November
Start of wet season with increasing rainfall at 3.1 inches and slightly cooler temperatures. Early rains bring relief from the heat and begin to green the landscape. Some afternoon thunderstorms expected.
December
Wet season with significant rainfall of 7.0 inches and moderate temperatures. Regular afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common. The landscape transforms to lush green, though some roads may become difficult to navigate.