Zimbabwe in September: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for September
Average temperature across Zimbabwe in September.
City Weather in September
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harare | 27° | 12° | 6 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Bulawayo | 28° | 12° | 7 mm | very high | Mild |
| Chitungwiza | 27° | 11° | 7 mm | very high | Mild |
| Mutare | 26° | 11° | 18 mm | very high | Mild |
| Gweru | 28° | 12° | 8 mm | very high | Mild |
| Kwekwe | 30° | 13° | 5 mm | very high | Mild |
| Kadoma, Zimbabwe | 32° | 14° | 4 mm | very high | Mild |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Zambezi Valley & Victoria Falls (northwest)
September brings warming temperatures and noticeably lower river flow compared with the winter months; the falls begin to look more segmented though still awe-inspiring from the viewpoints. Dust can appear on safari tracks as vegetation dries, and very occasional late-season bush fires in the surrounding savanna can cause haze; lodges will advise on local conditions. Canoeing and low-level river trips further upstream are often excellent as water levels are manageable.
Eastern Highlands (Mutare, Nyanga, Chimanimani)
September brings a gentle warm-up and the first hints of pre-rain humidity; days are increasingly pleasant and mornings remain cool. Migrant birds return and mountain meadows begin to flush with new growth, which makes this a satisfying time for birdwatching and landscape photography. The risk of sudden showers is low but rising, so a lightweight waterproof is a good carry for higher routes.
Central Plateau & Harare-Masvingo (Highveld)
September brings warmer days and the first hints of pre-rain showers tend to appear later in the month; humidity remains low for now. Great Zimbabwe is dusty but easily walkable, and birding picks up as migrants return. Carry a sun hat, sunscreen and water for daytime site-seeing, and be ready for sudden temperature jumps between shade and full sun.
Matabeleland & Western Highlands (Bulawayo, Matobo, Hwange fringe)
September becomes noticeably warmer and drier, with increasing risk of late dry-season bush fires that can create smoke and disrupt visibility in parks around Hwange. Animal concentrations at waterholes intensify, making this a popular month for wildlife viewing although access to some remote areas can be affected by regional burning. Pack sun protection and expect warm daytime temperatures.
Lowveld & Gonarezhou/Beitbridge (southeast and far south)
September brings hotter days and a heightened risk of bush fires on the parched plains that can create smoke and reduce visibility in Gonarezhou and adjacent conservation areas. Animal congregations at waterholes intensify - excellent for photography but sometimes accompanying dusty conditions. Pack sun protection, plenty of water and flexible plans as smoky days can occasionally affect air travel at small regional strips.