Rainy Season vs. Dry Season

If you’ve long dreamed of seeing Victoria Falls, it’s important to consider the time of year you visit.

We’re lucky to experience a temperate climate year-round, and unlike our wonderful friends north of the equator, don’t really know what ‘winter’ means. Winters in Zimbabwe, and in Vic Falls specifically, are dry and pleasant, with cold mornings and nights and rather enjoyable daylight hours of mellow sunshine. Summers, on the other hand, are hot and humid, with periodic afternoon thundershowers and beautiful, lush vegetation.

Therefore, to you we say: Determining the best time of year to visit Victoria Falls is a matter of personal taste, but it is helpful to know what to expect from our rainy season (summer) and dry season (winter) before booking your trip.

Below we’ll delve into what each season has to offer – the pros and the cons – and discover what awaits you in each.

What can I expect?

Strong Water Flow: If you’re considering the best time to visit Victoria Falls for the most dramatic experience, the months following the rainy season are ideal. From February to July, the Zambezi River swells to its maximum capacity, resulting in a powerful surge of water cascading over the Falls. The roar of the water and the thick mist create an awe-inspiring picture that will live on in your memory for many years to come.

Lush Vegetation: The rainy season transforms the surrounding bushveld of Victoria Falls into a lush, green paradise. The ever-present rainforest skirting the edge of the Falls thrives. For those who’d like to learn more about the fauna and flora of Victoria Falls, summer is a treat for the senses. Just remember, it gets hot!

Quieter Tourist Experience: With fewer tourists around, though this is subjective, the rainy season offers better rates and shorter queues. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the Falls and the surrounding attractions with fewer crowds to contend with.

Frequent Rainfall: The rains can be heavy, leading to high humidity and potential disruptions to outdoor activities. Guests should be prepared for wet conditions, but, as mentioned above, it’s not cold rain; more like cloud breaks that clear as quickly as they appear and leave the world shimmering in water droplets. Our hotel’s swimming pool will be a favourite location of yours in the Zimbabwean summer – we guarantee it!

High Water Levels: Although the increased water flow is spectacular, it can sometimes obscure the base of the Falls. This may make it more challenging to view certain intricate details of the Falls’ formations if that’s what you’re interested in, but others find it thrilling to be drenched in spray from the Falls. Just be careful when walking on the Cliff Path – it can get slippery!

What can I expect?

Clear Views: The dry season is often considered the best time to visit Victoria Falls for those seeking clear, unobstructed views of the Falls’ chasm. From August to January, the reduced water levels reveal extensive rock formations and intricate details of the Falls, perfect for the photography and geology enthusiasts among you.

Pleasant Weather: With cooler temperatures and lower humidity, the dry season is ideal for outdoor adventures. The comfortable weather enhances your ability to explore the surrounding national parks and enjoy a range of activities, from guided tours to adrenaline activities and wildlife safaris. (Though these are available year-round.)

Wide Range of Activities: The dry season offers great conditions for engaging in activities like river rafting, bungee jumping, and helicopter tours. It’s also an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around the remaining water sources.

Reduced Water Flow: While the Falls are still impressive, the lower water levels during the dry season can make the spectacle less dramatic compared to the rainy season.

Bigger Crowds: As the dry season is the peak tourist period, with many coming to see wildlife as well as the Falls, you might encounter larger crowds and higher prices for certain activities. It’s advisable to plan your stay well in advance to ensure you receive the best possible rates.

What Else?

We’ve broken the two seasons down for you in broad strokes, but you’re more than welcome to read about the weather and appropriate month-to-month activities in more detail here.

As a parting word, we should probably say that Victoria Falls has been known to experience all four seasons in one day. No matter what, the Falls are always spectacular; there is a reason they’re one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, after all!

No matter the season, Palm River Hotel offers a luxurious retreat for your Victoria Falls adventure. Located on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, our hotel provides stunning views of the river and the spray of the Falls, ensuring a serene and picturesque setting year-round.

Feel free to browse our 5-star accommodation options online and make your booking via our booking platform.

Alternatively, contact us directly on onlinereservations@palmriverhotel.com and one of our friendly team members will be happy to get back to you and assist.

We hope you love your trip to one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic destinations!