June is the true beginning of Zambia’s dry season, when the landscape undergoes its full transformation. The rains are a distant memory, and the bush is now sparse, revealing the stark beauty of the African wilderness. The mornings are cool, sometimes even chilly, with temperatures hovering between 10°C and 23°C (50°F to 73°F), while the afternoons warm up to a comfortable 25°C (77°F). The air is dry, the skies wide and clear, and visibility in the bush is at its best.

This is the heart of Zambia’s safari season, and it’s a time of extraordinary wildlife sightings, perfect for both seasoned safari-goers and first-time visitors.

Weather in Zambia in June

June is one of the most comfortable months to visit Zambia. The air is crisp and fresh, and the daytime temperatures are warm but never oppressive. It’s a time of exceptional clarity, where the skies are often cloudless and the sunsets are a painter’s dream—streaked with pinks and oranges that light up the horizon.

Early mornings, especially in the more remote areas, can be chilly—perfect for a warm jacket as you set off on a game drive. By midday, however, the weather is ideal for safaris and outdoor activities, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies.

Wildlife in June: The Safari Season in Full Swing

Wildlife viewing in June is at its peak. The dry season means animals gather around waterholes and rivers, making them easier to spot. In South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue National Park, the dry conditions create an ideal environment for wildlife photography and game drives. Herds of elephants and buffalo are common, and you’ll often see large prides of lions resting in the shade or hunting near riverbeds.

The reduced vegetation and the lowering of water sources bring predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs to more concentrated areas, which makes for incredible sightings, often at close range. Predatory action is heightened as the abundance of herbivores brings them into the open.

Birdlife is still active, though the focus in June shifts toward the larger, resident species. This is also the time when you can spot herds of giraffes grazing on the open plains, and zebras moving in large groups across the landscape.

Where to Go in June

South Luangwa National Park is an excellent choice in June, with prime wildlife sightings as animals congregate along the Luangwa River. This is one of the best months for walking safaris as well, as the weather is perfect for exploring on foot with a guide.

Lower Zambezi National Park offers a spectacular river-based safari experience, with boat trips, canoeing, and fishing all in full swing. The riverbanks come alive with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.

Kafue National Park starts to show its true colors in June. The vast plains and scattered woodland provide a beautiful backdrop for game drives, and the weather allows for long, comfortable excursions.

Victoria Falls remains a spectacular sight in June. The Zambezi River is still flowing at high levels, creating a thundering spectacle of water crashing over the gorge, but the mist is less intense than in the peak rainy season, offering clearer views and photos. You can also enjoy scenic helicopter flights to capture the full expanse of the falls.

Why Visit Zambia in June?

June is one of the best months to experience Zambia’s famous safari magic. The wildlife is abundant and easy to spot, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and the landscapes are at their most striking—crisp, dry, and beautifully open.

With the dry season in full swing, the lodges are gearing up for peak safari months, but in June, you can still enjoy an exclusive experience with fewer crowds. Whether you’re keen on game drives, walking safaris, or boat excursions, June offers it all—clear skies, dramatic landscapes, and wildlife encounters that are nothing short of unforgettable.