January in Zimbabwe is a time of deep transformation. The rains that began in late November have now fully settled into the landscape, turning dry grasslands and dusty paths into rolling expanses of green. Acacia trees burst with new leaves, wildflowers dot the savannah, and rivers and pans brim with life once more. It’s the peak of the Green Season—a time of beauty, birth, and subtle magic that few travelers witness, but many remember forever.

Weather in Zimbabwe in January

Rainfall is frequent but often arrives in heavy, short-lived bursts—mostly during the afternoon or at night—leaving mornings clear, warm, and golden. Daytime temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with high humidity and dramatic skies. Towering clouds drift over the horizon, setting the stage for stunning sunsets, rich with golds and purples, and the occasional rumble of distant thunder rolling across the open bush.

Wildlife Viewing: Birth, Beauty, and a Different Kind of Drama

January brings the bush to life in more ways than one. While thick vegetation makes wildlife harder to spot, it also creates a more intimate safari experience. This is the season of birth—many antelope species, including impala and kudu, give birth during this time. It’s not uncommon to see herds with tiny calves, still unsteady on their feet, while predators like lions and hyenas linger nearby, drawn by the promise of easy prey.

This month is also a prime time for predator activity. Though tracking can be more challenging, the presence of young animals means plenty of action for those with patience and a sharp eye. Fewer vehicles in the parks make each encounter feel more personal, more connected.

Birding, too, is exceptional. Migratory species arrive in full plumage, and Zimbabwe’s wetlands and riverbanks come alive with song. From the brilliant carmine bee-eaters to the elusive African pitta, January offers a feast for birders and photographers alike.

Where to Go on Safari in January

Access can be limited in some remote areas due to heavy rains and muddy roads, but several top safari destinations remain open and inviting. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s flagship reserve, offers rewarding game drives in the southern regions where roads are better maintained. Wildlife may be harder to find, but the solitude and sheer natural beauty more than make up for it.

Mana Pools is largely inaccessible by road during this month, but for the truly adventurous, fly-in safaris offer an exclusive and wild escape. Matobo Hills, with its dramatic granite outcrops and spiritual energy, also remains open and offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and scenic exploration.

Many lodges offer Green Season rates in January, providing excellent value for travelers who don’t mind a bit of rain and seek a more peaceful safari experience.

Victoria Falls in January

Victoria Falls begins to come alive again in January. The Zambezi River is rising steadily, and while the waterfall hasn’t reached its full thunderous force, it’s already a sight to behold. Water cascades over the basalt cliffs in wider sheets, framed by lush, rain-fed greenery. The rainforest trails are alive with birdsong, dripping leaves, and the soft roar of distant water—offering a sensory experience like no other.

This is a quieter time to visit the Falls, with fewer tourists on the paths and viewing points. Helicopter rides offer breathtaking aerial views of the misty gorge, and depending on river levels, Devil’s Pool may still be open early in the month. It’s a time for reflection, wonder, and unforgettable moments etched in nature’s rhythm.

Why Visit Zimbabwe in January?

January may not promise the high volumes of wildlife seen in the dry season, but it offers something different—something softer and more soulful. It’s a time for travelers who want to connect with nature’s renewal, who appreciate quiet beauty, and who seek a safari filled with authenticity and atmosphere.

If you long to remember your journey by the color of the grass, the sound of newborn life, and the mist from a rising river, then January in Zimbabwe offers a rare and beautiful beginning to your safari story.