Monthly Safari Guide

Zimbabwe Safari in
January

Peak Rainy Season 18-30°C 170mm rain 1493 tours

January is deep in Zimbabwe's rainy season with hot temperatures and daily afternoon thunderstorms. While not the classic safari season, Hwange National Park is green and full of baby animals. Victoria Falls is building toward its March-May peak flow. The Matobo Hills are strikingly beautiful with green vegetation against ancient granite. Bird diversity is exceptional with breeding migrants present. Prices are at their lowest, making January ideal for budget travellers. Some remote bush camps close, but main facilities remain operational.

Season overview

Peak Rainy Season in Zimbabwe

January falls within Zimbabwe's peak rainy season, characterised by daytime highs of 30°C and overnight lows of 18°C. Average rainfall is 170mm, making this a rainy period.

The rainy season brings lush green landscapes, baby animals, and exceptional birdwatching. Rain typically falls in afternoon bursts, leaving mornings clear for game drives. The trade-off for occasional rain is significantly fewer tourists and lower prices.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in January

● Baby animals across species in Hwange
● Spectacular birdlife with migrants and breeding species
● Victoria Falls at building flow from upstream rains
● Lush green landscapes ideal for photography

Where to go

Best Parks in Zimbabwe for January

★ Hwange

Top pick this month

Mana Pools

Recommended for January

Matobo Hills

Recommended for January

Victoria Falls

Recommended for January

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in January

Crowd Level

Low

Price Level

Low Season

Average price per person

Budget

$3488

from $100 · 76 tours

Mid-range

$3624

from $100 · 247 tours

Luxury

$7538

from $384 · 53 tours

Ultra-Luxury

$15774

from $8502 · 13 tours

January is one of the most affordable months for a Zimbabwe safari. Lodges and camps offer significant discounts, sometimes 30-50% below peak rates. This is the time to experience premium properties at mid-range prices.

Preparation

What to Pack for January

✓ Rain jacket

✓ Insect repellent

✓ Quick-dry clothing

✓ Waterproof camera bag

✓ Antimalarial medication

Waterproof gear is essential for January in Zimbabwe. Pack a good rain jacket and waterproof bag for electronics. Quick-dry fabrics are more practical than cotton. Despite the rain, sunscreen is still necessary for the strong tropical sun between showers. Neutral safari colours remain the best choice.

Book your adventure

Top Zimbabwe Safari Tours

Escape to Adventure Safaris

9-Day Zimbabwe Explorer

9 days standard 4.9★

From $3,413

Escape to Adventure Safaris

1-Day Hwange National Park Day Trip

1 days comfort 4.9★

From $352

Escape to Adventure Safaris

1-Day Matobo Day Trip

1 days standard 4.9★

From $220

Escape to Adventure Safaris

1-Day Mighty Gonarezhou Day Trip

1 days luxury 4.9★

From $550

Escape to Adventure Safaris

5-Day Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park Tour

5 days standard 4.9★

From $1,749

Elephant Herd Tours & Safaris

3-Day Victoria Falls Incl Helicopter Flight

3 days standard 5.0★

From $1,291

View all 1493 Zimbabwe tours →

Frequently asked questions

Zimbabwe Safari in January FAQ

Is January a good time for a safari in Zimbabwe?

January falls in Zimbabwe's peak rainy season, with temperatures of 18-30 degrees Celsius and 170mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are low, and pricing is at low season rates. Baby animals across species in Hwange. Overall, January is an excellent value month for a Zimbabwe safari.

How much does a Zimbabwe safari cost in January?

Zimbabwe safari costs in January vary by comfort level. Budget safaris average $3488/person from $100. Mid-range options average $3624/person. Luxury safaris average $7538/person. Ultra-luxury experiences average $15774/person. Prices are at their lowest in January. Compare 1493 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Zimbabwe in January?

January wildlife highlights in Zimbabwe include: Baby animals across species in Hwange. Spectacular birdlife with migrants and breeding species. Victoria Falls at building flow from upstream rains. Lush green landscapes ideal for photography. The best parks to visit this month are Hwange, Mana Pools, Matobo Hills, Victoria Falls.

What should I pack for a Zimbabwe safari in January?

Essential packing for a January Zimbabwe safari: Rain jacket, Insect repellent, Quick-dry clothing, Waterproof camera bag, Antimalarial medication. Temperatures range from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius with 170mm rainfall, so waterproof gear is essential.

Which parks are best to visit in Zimbabwe in January?

The top parks in Zimbabwe for January are Hwange, Mana Pools, Matobo Hills, Victoria Falls. During the peak rainy season, these parks offer the best game viewing conditions. Hwange is particularly recommended this month. Browse all Zimbabwe park guides and tour options on SafariPicked.