January is outside the preferred season for Lower Zambezi; most visitors choose August to October.
Weather in Lower Zambezi in January
Average highs in January are around 32°C, dropping to about 22°C at night. This is the rainy season, so expect frequent showers and occasionally harder roads.
What happens in January
Most lodges close during the rains and generally operate from about April to November.
Experience quality this month is 2 out of 5, and visitor levels are very quiet. The best period overall is August to October.
What to pack
- neutral-coloured layers
- a rain jacket and a dry bag for your camera
- insect repellent and long sleeves for the evening
- binoculars for distant wildlife
Lower Zambezi through the year
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22–32 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| February | 22–32 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| March | 22–32 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| April | 19–31 | some rain | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| May | 15–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| June | 12–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| July | 12–27 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| August | 15–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| September | 20–34 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 24–36 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| November | 24–35 | some rain | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| December | 23–33 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
Other good choices in January
- Bwindi Uganda
- Ngorongoro Tanzania
- Serengeti Tanzania
- Volcanoes Rwanda
- Lake Nakuru Kenya
- Murchison Falls Uganda
Lower Zambezi in DecemberBest safaris in JanuaryLower Zambezi in February
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Frequently asked questions
Is January a good time to visit Lower Zambezi?
January is outside the preferred season for Lower Zambezi; most visitors choose August to October.
What is the weather like in Lower Zambezi in January?
Highs around 32°C, rainy season.
Is Lower Zambezi busy in January?
Visitor levels in January are very quiet.
Sources: Zambia Tourism - Lower Zambezi National Park · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Kariba (Zambezi valley proxy)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.