When you’re planning a trip to Bulawayo, you really have to think about the city’s weather patterns. This part of Zimbabwe stays warm most of the year, but the rain and sunshine can swing pretty wildly depending on the season. The best time to visit Bulawayo for dry, comfortable, and sunny weather is during the cooler months from May to September.
From May to September, you’ll get mild daytime temperatures, clear blue skies, and barely any rain. That means it’s much easier to get out and explore the city’s museums, parks, or just wander around without worrying about sudden heat or storms.
The dry season also gives you longer, sunnier days, so you can squeeze in more activities.
If you know when the wet and dry seasons hit, you can plan much better. Wet months can really mess with outdoor plans, while the dry season is way more reliable. With a bit of timing, your Bulawayo trip can actually be comfortable and memorable.
Overview of Bulawayo’s Climate
Bulawayo sits at about 1,350 meters (4,430 feet) above sea level, and that elevation shapes its semi-arid climate. Most of the year, you’ll feel warm to hot days, but the nights, especially in winter, can get pretty cool. There’s a clear split between wet and dry seasons here.
Semi-Arid Climate Characteristics
Bulawayo falls under the subtropical steppe (BSh) climate. The higher elevation keeps the heat in check, so even when summers get hot, the air doesn’t usually feel as sticky as it does in Zimbabwe’s lowlands.
You’ll notice two main seasons: a rainy season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. When it’s dry, you’ll see mostly clear skies and loads of sunshine—sometimes up to 9 or 10 hours a day.
In June and July, winter brings chilly nights that sometimes drop close to freezing. Still, the days stay mild and sunny, so outdoor activities feel pleasant. That big swing between warm days and cold nights is just part of life here.
Annual Temperature Patterns
Bulawayo’s temperatures stay moderate compared to a lot of other African cities. The average annual mean is about 20–21 °C (68–70 °F).
- Hottest months: October and November, with daytime highs around 30–31 °C (86–88 °F).
- Coldest month: July, where lows can hit 8 °C (46 °F) and highs hover around 22–23 °C (72–73 °F).
That big difference between day and night temps really stands out. You’ll want light clothes for daytime but something warmer for evenings, especially during winter. Extreme heat doesn’t happen often, but sometimes it gets over 38 °C (100 °F).
Having warm days and cool nights makes the climate feel less stifling than in most tropical places.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels
Bulawayo usually gets around 590–600 mm (23 inches) of rain per year, and most of that falls between December and February. January and December are the wettest, with about 120 mm each.
From May through September, the dry season brings almost no rain. July and August sometimes barely see 2 mm of precipitation, so those months are really dry.
Humidity comes and goes with the rain. In the rainy season, it sits near 60–65%, but in the dry season, it can drop below 40%, making the air feel crisp.
This back-and-forth with rain and humidity shapes all sorts of things, from how comfy you feel to what you can do outdoors.
Best Time to Visit Bulawayo for Ideal Weather
Bulawayo flips between a long dry season and a shorter wet season, but you’ll find warm temps most of the year. Rain, sunshine, and humidity really decide when it’s best to get outside.
Dry Season (May to October)
Most people visit Bulawayo during the dry season. The days are sunny, the skies are clear, and humidity stays low. Daytime temperatures usually land between 23°C and 31°C (73°F to 88°F), while nights can dip to 9°C to 16°C (48°F to 61°F), especially in June and July.
With almost no rain, this is the time to check out Matobo National Park, go on city tours, or catch cultural events. Wildlife watching gets easier too, since animals gather at the few water sources.
If you’re coming between May and August, pack some light layers for the evenings. By September and October, it heats up—over 30°C (86°F) during the day—so you’ll want to keep hydrated and find shade. Overall, the weather’s most predictable and pleasant during these months.
Wet Season (November to April)
Come wet season, humidity rises and showers become frequent. Rain peaks from December to February, often topping 100 mm per month. Thunderstorms pop up, usually in the late afternoon or evening.
Daytime temps stay warm, about 27°C to 31°C (81°F to 88°F). Nights are milder, around 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F). The rain cools things off a bit but can make travel unpredictable, especially outside the city.
The landscape turns lush and green, which is great if you’re into photography or nature. Still, if you want endless sunshine, this isn’t your season. Pack some light rain gear and keep your plans flexible.
Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown
- January–February: Warm and wet, about 28°C/16°C (82°F/61°F), with heavy rainfall and storms.
- March–April: Rain eases up; April averages 27°C/14°C (81°F/57°F) with more dry days.
- May–July: Cool and dry, with June and July dropping to 24°C/9°C (75°F/48°F). Nights can really feel cold.
- August–September: Still dry, but the heat comes back. September hits 30°C/14°C (86°F/57°F).
- October: Hot and dry, around 31°C/16°C (88°F/61°F). Rain starts to return late in the month.
- November–December: Warm and wetter, averaging 31°C/18°C (88°F/64°F), with more rain coming in.
This list should help you pick the best month for your plans.
Tourist Seasons in Bulawayo
Tourist numbers in Bulawayo shift with the weather. The dry months pull in the biggest crowds, while the rainy season means fewer visitors but a much greener city. Those in-between months? They’re a sweet spot for milder weather and less hustle.
Peak Travel Periods
From May to October, Bulawayo gets the most tourists. You’ll see clear skies, barely any rain, and daytime temps from 20°C to 27°C. Nights can be chilly, so bringing a light jacket makes sense.
This season is perfect for wildlife viewing at Matobo National Park, since animals gather at waterholes. Walking trails and outdoor spots are much easier to access, and you don’t have to worry about sudden downpours.
Cultural events make things even livelier. The Bulawayo Arts Festival in May and the Matobo Cultural Festival in August draw big crowds with music, dance, and traditional food.
Accommodation costs go up, and things get busy, so it’s smart to book early if you’re coming now.
Off-Peak and Shoulder Seasons
From late December through April, you’ll find the fewest tourists. Rain peaks in January and February, with monthly averages between 50mm and 150mm. Some rural roads can get muddy and tough to use.
Still, you’ll score lower hotel prices and fewer lines at big attractions. The city’s greenery is at its best, so it’s a treat for photographers. Birdwatchers also love this stretch, since migratory birds arrive.
The shoulder months—November and early December—bring rising temps and the first rains. You’ll dodge the biggest crowds but still get decent weather.
If you’re fine with a little rain and want a quieter visit, these seasons work well.
Visitor Trends and Crowds
Tourist numbers in Bulawayo really follow the weather. May to October brings the most visitors, especially during festivals and school breaks. Hotels fill up fast, and guided tours can sell out.
On the flip side, January to March is the quietest. You can wander places like the Bulawayo Railway Museum or city markets without waiting in line.
April and November are somewhere in the middle. Fewer tour groups, shorter waits at restaurants, and more freedom to plan your days.
Thinking about these trends helps you decide if you want a busy, energetic trip or something more laid-back.
Weather Factors Affecting Travel Plans
When you’re planning your trip, you have to think about how temperatures swing, how often it rains, and how much daylight you’ll get. All of these shape what you can do outside and how you should pack.
Temperature Extremes
Bulawayo’s warm climate sticks around all year, but day and night temps can be worlds apart. In hot months like October, days can reach 31°C (88°F), but nights cool off to about 16°C (61°F). Winter months like June and July have highs of 23–24°C (73–75°F), but nights can drop to 9°C (48°F).
So you’ll need both light clothes and a warm layer or two. The cooler months are best for walking and exploring, while the hottest months, especially afternoons, can feel a bit much. If you’re not a fan of heat, maybe skip late September through November.
Rainy Days and Dry Spells
Rain in Bulawayo really comes in waves. The wettest stretch is December to February, with over 100 mm a month and lots of afternoon showers. Roads can get muddy, and outdoor plans might get washed out.
On the other hand, the dry season from May through September barely sees any rain. June and July usually get just 0–1 mm of rain, so you can count on clear days.
Rainy days can really add up in February—about 23 days of rain—while July usually gets none. If you want to avoid soggy days, stick to the dry months.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
Bulawayo gets plenty of sunshine, even in the rainy season. During the dry months, the skies stay clear, giving you bright days and little cloud cover. That makes planning outdoor stuff way easier.
Daylight changes a bit with the seasons. In summer, you’ll get roughly 13 hours of daylight; in winter, it drops to about 11 hours. That affects how much you can fit into a day.
The sun can get really strong, especially in September and October. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and lots of water if you’ll be outside.
Events and Activities by Season
Bulawayo has a good mix of festivals, outdoor adventures, and everyday traditions that shift with the seasons. You can plan your visit to catch big events, go wildlife viewing, or just soak up the city’s culture.
Major Festivals and Local Events
Bulawayo puts on several big events every year that show off its art, business, and community spirit. In April, the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair draws people from all over the region. If you’re into cultural performances, the Bulawayo Arts Festival in May brings theater, dance, and music to the city.
August is all about the Matobo Cultural Festival, where you can experience Ndebele traditions, food, art, and stories. December has festive markets and public celebrations for Christmas and New Year. On national holidays like Independence Day in April, expect parades and cultural displays.
Most of these events happen outdoors, so visiting during the dry season makes them a lot more fun. Sure, the crowds get bigger during those months, but the energy and excitement are worth it.
Outdoor Activities and Wildlife Viewing
The dry season, running from May to October, really stands out as the best time for outdoor exploration. You’ll deal with little rainfall, so roads stay more manageable, and wildlife gathers around water sources, making them easier to spot.
Matobo National Park, just outside Bulawayo, gives you a solid chance to see rhinos, zebras, and a bunch of bird species. Hiking among the granite hills of Matobo feels especially rewarding during the cooler months, when daytime highs hover between 20°C and 27°C.
Game drives and walking safaris become easier to set up during this time. The dry season just seems to make everything a bit more accessible.
When the wet season rolls in from November to April, the landscape changes completely. Everything turns green and lush.
Game viewing gets trickier, but birdwatchers might actually prefer this stretch, since migratory species show up. The scenery really pops for photographers, though heavy rains sometimes make rural roads tough to navigate.
Cultural Experiences
Bulawayo’s culture is always there for you to explore, not just during festivals. The Bulawayo Railway Museum lets you peek into the city’s colonial past, and the lively markets bring you face-to-face with artisans and local foods.
Traditional music and dance pop up at community gatherings, especially on public holidays. The dry months give you more chances to catch outdoor cultural shows and community events.
When the rains come, most activities shift indoors, but museums, galleries, and historic buildings still welcome visitors. Getting involved with local traditions—whether that’s food, crafts, or performance—offers a real glimpse into daily life in Zimbabwe’s second-largest city.
Travel Tips for Visiting Bulawayo
If you’re planning a trip to Bulawayo, it helps to consider both the climate and when most people visit. Packing the right stuff and picking your timing carefully can make everything go a bit smoother.
What to Pack for Each Season
Bulawayo really has two main seasons: the dry one from May to October, and the wet one from November to April. Each demands a slightly different packing list.
Dry months bring mild days, but the evenings can get surprisingly cool. You’ll want light layers—maybe a breathable shirt for daytime, with a warm sweater or jacket for later. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for markets or parks.
A wide-brim hat and sunscreen come in handy too, since the sun can be pretty fierce even when it’s cooler. When the wet season hits, especially from December to February, you’ll see frequent rain showers.
A light rain jacket, waterproof shoes, and quick-dry clothes make life easier. Humidity can make heavy fabrics a pain, so lighter materials are your friend.
Don’t forget mosquito repellent during this stretch. If you’re heading to places like Matobo National Park, bring sturdy footwear, a refillable water bottle, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Planning Around Weather and Crowds
Bulawayo gets busiest during the dry season. From May to October, skies usually stay clear, and you can reach most outdoor spots without much trouble.
Hotels and popular attractions fill up fast, though, so prices climb. If you want a good room or tour, you’ll need to book early.
When the wet season rolls in, most tourists stay away. You might score a better deal and enjoy a quieter city.
But there’s a catch—heavy rain can make rural roads muddy and tough to travel. Wildlife can be harder to spot, too.
If you’re not a fan of crowds, maybe try the shoulder months like April or November. The weather’s more forgiving, and things feel less hectic.
Festivals shake things up, especially the Bulawayo Arts Festival in May or the Matobo Cultural Festival in August.
If you’re planning to go, it’s smart to reserve your place to stay well ahead of time.