December, January, February & March – These are the wettest months, characterized by torrential downpours in the afternoon. Nights and mornings are warm at around 18°C/64°F. Afternoon temperatures are around 30°C/86°F and the humidity is high, making it feel hotter.

In Zimbabwe, January is historically the wettest month of the year. The country experiences a "rainy season" (also known as the green season) that typically runs from November to March, driven by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) moving south. During January, many regions—especially the eastern highlands and the northern plateau—receive their highest levels of precipitation, often in the form of heavy afternoon thunderstorms. While the rain brings a lush, vibrant green to the landscape and fills the rivers for spectacular views at Victoria Falls, it can also make some dirt roads in the national parks impassable for standard vehicles. Daytime temperatures in January average around 26°C (79°F), but the high humidity can make it feel much warmer. For travelers in 2026, visiting in January offers "low season" pricing and excellent bird-watching opportunities, but a "pro" warning is necessary: the thick vegetation can make spotting big game more difficult than during the dry winter months of June to October, when animals congregate around the remaining waterholes.