November in Zambia is a month of transformation. The intense dry season begins to give way to the first rains, breathing new life into the parched landscape. Dusty plains soften, the air becomes heavy with possibility, and the first flushes of green burst through the golden earth. It’s a time of renewal—a dramatic shift from harsh survival to vibrant regeneration.

For those who love nature’s changing moods, November offers a unique safari experience. It’s less about peak game concentrations and more about witnessing the bush come alive again.

Weather in Zambia in November

November marks the start of the rainy season, although rainfall is still sporadic and typically arrives in short, heavy bursts rather than long, sustained storms. Humidity rises noticeably, and temperatures remain high—often between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The buildup to the rains can feel intense, with thunderclouds forming on the horizon before breaking open in dramatic afternoon or evening downpours.

These early rains wash away the dust, fill seasonal pans, and bring a refreshing sense of renewal to the air. Mornings remain clear and excellent for safari, while late afternoons may be stormy and photogenic.

Wildlife in November: New Life and Last Dry Season Encounters

November offers a transitional window where game viewing is still good, especially in the early part of the month before the bush thickens. Many animals are still clustered near waterholes, though they begin to spread out as new pools and grasses emerge.

But perhaps the most beautiful aspect of November is new life. This is the birthing season for many antelope species—impalas, wildebeest, and zebras—which means not only adorable young animals but also heightened predator activity. Lions, leopards, and hyenas take advantage of the vulnerability of the newborns, leading to fast-paced and dramatic scenes in the bush.

Birding takes a glorious turn. Migratory species return in full, filling the skies with vibrant colors and birdsong. Woodland kingfishers, cuckoos, and colorful bee-eaters all mark the shift into the green season. For birdwatchers, this is a paradise.

Where to Go in November

South Luangwa National Park is still accessible in early November and offers a wonderful blend of dry-season wildlife and the first signs of the green season. Game viewing remains strong, especially around the Luangwa River, and the park’s changing colors make for stunning photographs.

Lower Zambezi National Park typically begins closing by mid-November due to accessibility challenges, but if you’re visiting early in the month, it remains a worthwhile destination—especially for a mix of land and water-based activities.

Kafue National Park also transitions this month. The Busanga Plains become less accessible as rains arrive, but central and southern Kafue still provide good safari opportunities.

Victoria Falls begins to pick up flow again after its lowest point in October. With the first rains feeding into the Zambezi upstream, the falls start their annual build-up. While not yet thunderous, they regain some of their power and beauty.

Why Visit Zambia in November?

November offers a safari experience rich with contrasts—old and new, dry and green, survival and birth. It’s a time for travelers who enjoy being part of a changing landscape, who appreciate the rawness of nature in transition, and who seek a quieter, more soulful experience away from the peak-season crowds.

It’s also a fantastic time for photographers and birders. The skies are dramatic, the light soft and golden, and the sudden explosions of green add texture and color to the scenery.

For those with a sense of adventure, November in Zambia is not a compromise—it’s an invitation to witness the start of a new cycle in one of Africa’s wildest places.