Best Time to Visit Zambia
Find out Further Information on the Best Time for Walking Safaris and Big Game Dives in Zambia
Visitors travel to Zambia in small numbers so although the dry season between July to early October is the main season, it never feels busy. In fact, some people think the best time to visit Zambia is during the wet season when the scenery is stunning and prices are lower.
Climate
Dry season is from July to early October and is the easiest time (temperature wise) to travel and tends to be when most tourists visit. Having said this, there are some great deals to be secured in the shoulder seasons which are still fantastic for game viewing. June to August are the coolest months and then the heat gradually builds up from September.
The wet season, between December and March, is not ideal for everybody but is a fascinating time to visit and should not be dismissed. Weather can vary hugely within the same day and you will need good waterproofs but it seldom rains for long enough to really stop you doing anything, except travelling on some minor roads. Scenery is spectacular and you will be treated to some rare and wonderful sights.
Wildlife
The wet season is a great time to see herbivores as the scenery is stunning, the animals appear very healthy and many give birth to their young at this time. However, if this is your first wildlife safari experience, you may prefer to travel in the dry season, when wildlife is easier to spot huddled around watering holes.
Bird watching can be excellent during the rainy season.
Festivals and Events
Zambia has several major cultural festivals but they tend not to be attended by tourists. If you get the opportunity to attend a public or private ceremony you will discover that they are very genuine occasions, performed for the benefit of the local people. It is advisable to take a good guide with you to explain the experience and to advise you how you should behave.
Below are listed some of the main festivals in Zambia, please ask about regional events.
Easter |
The Ku-omboka - Western Province. The most famous of the ceremonies symbolising the retreat of the people to higher grounds during the flood waters
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July |
A two day festival where the paramount chief celebrates the arrival of the Luunda people and the ‘crossing of the river’ with animal slaughter and dancing. Shimunenga – Maala on the Kafue Flats.
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August |
Likumbi Lya Mize - Mize, Western Zambia. The Luvale people have an annual ‘fair’ type of celebration at the palace of the senior chief.
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Sept/Oct |
Traditional gathering of the Ila people who drive cattle across the Kafue River
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Public Holidays
New Years Day (Jan 1), Youth Day (Mar), Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Labour Day (May 1), Africa Freedom Day (25 May), Heroes Day (July), Unity Day (July), Farmer’s Day (Aug), Independence Day (24 Oct), Christmas Day (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 26)
Visitors are welcome to join in with festivities but should always observe religious and private gatherings from a respectful distance, unless invited to join in!
Costs
Camps may be quieter and cheaper late or early in the season (May to July or November). Those camps that stay open during the rains tend to be far cheaper and may be more flexible in terms of allowing children. Zambia has a variety of luxury lodges to choose from and is also ideal for family safari holidays.
Flight costs tend to increase over Christmas. Park fees remain the same year round.
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