Winter in Livingstone, Zambia, feels different from the hotter, wetter months. Most days are warm, with highs between 28–31°C (83–88°F), but nights cool off to about 19–21°C (66–70°F).
This balance makes it easy to explore outdoors without worrying about heavy summer rains.
Rainfall comes back during winter, though not every day brings showers.
December through February usually see steady precipitation, with totals of 100 to 125 mm.
The air feels more humid, and the sky can shift fast—one minute it’s sunny, the next, clouds roll in and you get a wet afternoon.
If you travel during these months, you’ll notice how the climate shapes the landscape and the pace of life.
Rivers swell, everything greens up, and wildlife activity changes compared to the dry season.
It’s a unique time to experience Livingstone, as long as you’re ready for the seasonal shifts.
Overview of Winter Weather in Livingstone
Winter in Livingstone brings cooler nights, warm days, and the return of regular rainfall.
You’ll notice big changes in temperature, humidity, and precipitation compared to the dry season, which can really affect your travel plans.
Definition of Winter Months
Locals define winter in Livingstone as December through February.
Unlike temperate regions, this isn’t a cold or snowy season.
Instead, it’s the heart of the wet season.
Daytime highs stick around 28°C to 31°C (82°F–88°F).
Nights stay mild, with lows of 19°C to 21°C (66°F–70°F).
It feels warm, but the humidity and rain make it a different experience than the dry season.
Rain is the real standout.
December often brings over 100 mm (3.9 in), January climbs to about 125 mm (4.9 in), and February stays wet, though it lets up a bit.
Winter ends up as the wettest time of year here.
Typical Climate Patterns
During these months, expect frequent afternoon showers and thunderstorms.
Rain tends to show up in bursts, not a constant drizzle, so mornings and late evenings are often clearer.
Clouds are common, which cuts down on sunshine compared to the dry months.
Humidity climbs fast, hitting 70–77%, which can make things feel pretty sticky.
Winds stay light, about 8 km/h (5 mph), so there’s not much relief from the damp air.
The UV index stays moderate to high, around 6.
Even with clouds, the sun can be strong, so you’ll want to protect your skin.
On rainy days, visibility drops, but the air feels fresher as the rain clears out the dust.
Comparison to Other Seasons
Compared to the dry months of June to September, winter in Livingstone is wetter, greener, and more humid.
You won’t get the crisp, chilly nights like in July—instead, expect warm evenings and more moisture.
In spring (March–May), there’s less rain and more clear days than in winter.
Autumn (September–November) gets hotter and much drier, with daytime highs soaring above 35°C (95°F).
Winter stands out for its balance: warm weather, lots of rain, and lush scenery.
It’s a big contrast from the dry, sunny conditions that stick around most of the year in Livingstone.
Average Winter Temperatures
Winter in Livingstone means mild, dry weather with cooler nights and warm afternoons.
From June through August, you’ll see steady changes in temperature, with the coldest days showing up in early July.
Daytime Highs and Nighttime Lows
Daytime highs usually hit 76°F to 87°F (24°C–31°C).
It’s comfortable, rarely too hot, and afternoons are often sunny—perfect for walking tours or checking out Victoria Falls.
Nights get much cooler, dropping to 48°F–57°F (9°C–14°C).
You’ll notice the temperature dip after sunset, so pack a light jacket or sweater.
Unlike the humid summer, the air stays dry, so the cool nights feel crisp, not damp.
The swing between day and night temperatures is pretty big.
You might wear short sleeves during the day, then reach for layers once the sun sets.
This daily shift is one of the most noticeable parts of Livingstone’s winter.
Monthly Temperature Variations
June kicks off the coolest stretch, with highs near 76°F (24°C) and lows around 48°F (9°C).
July warms up a bit, but early mornings can still feel cold.
By August, afternoons heat up to 85°F (29°C) and nights get milder, averaging 55°F (13°C).
This slow warming signals the approach of spring.
The change across the season isn’t huge, but it’s steady.
By August, mornings aren’t as chilly, and afternoons feel warmer.
August generally feels more comfortable than the sharper contrasts in June and early July.
Coldest Month Analysis
Early July brings the coldest weather.
The average daily low hits 48°F (9°C), and highs hover near 76°F (24°C).
July stands out as the coolest month in Livingstone.
Mornings can feel especially brisk, especially before sunrise.
Locals say July dawns are the only time you’ll really want a heavier jacket.
Even with chilly nights, afternoons stay sunny and warm.
You can still enjoy outdoor travel without worrying about extreme cold or heat, which makes July a pretty special time in Livingstone.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rain is scarce in Livingstone’s winter, and you’ll get long stretches of dry, clear weather.
The move from wet summer to dry winter changes how often it rains and how much you get.
Frequency of Rainy Days
Once winter hits, rainy days almost disappear.
From May through August, rain is nearly absent, and some months record zero days of precipitation.
Earlier in the year, the rainy season can bring 10–15 rainy days per month, but this drops off fast by late April.
By June, measurable rain is rare, making it one of the driest times here.
This sharp drop in rain is one of Livingstone’s most reliable weather patterns.
If you’re planning outdoor activities in winter, expect clear skies with almost no chance of storms.
Monthly Precipitation Totals
Rainfall in Livingstone swings wildly by season.
The wettest months, like January, can get over 200 mm, but winter months average close to 0 mm.
For example:
| Month | Average Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| January | ~207 mm | 15 |
| April | ~30 mm | 3 |
| June | ~0 mm | 0 |
| August | ~0 mm | 0 |
These numbers show how fast the region goes from heavy summer rains to bone-dry winters.
By June, you can pretty much count on no measurable rain, and that continues through August.
Transition to Dry Season
By late April, the dry season starts to take over.
Rain drops off fast, and skies clear up each week.
By June, the dry season is in full swing, with more sunshine and humidity dropping.
With less rain, temperatures swing more between day and night.
Winter is one of the most stable, predictable times for weather in Livingstone.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine During Winter
Winter in Livingstone brings dry air, lots of clear skies, and steady weather.
Expect bright days, barely any rain, cool nights, and more sunshine than during the wet season.
Clear Skies and Visibility
Winter skies in Livingstone stay mostly clear.
From June through August, rain is almost nonexistent, so you get great visibility all day.
You’ll see distant landscapes, the Zambezi River, and the plateaus without trouble.
Clear skies cut down on haze, so it’s a good time for photography.
Sometimes dust rises in drier spots, but it rarely blocks your view.
If you’re planning safaris or river cruises, this is the best time for uninterrupted scenery.
Clear skies also mean nights cool down pretty fast.
Days stay warm and sunny, but you’ll want a light jacket after dark.
Average Hours of Sunshine
Winter brings some of the sunniest days of the year.
You get 7 to 9 hours of direct sunlight per day, with June and July on the lower end and August picking up a bit.
This reliable sunshine is great for sightseeing, tours, and travel between attractions.
The sun rises around 6:30 AM and sets near 6:00 PM, so daylight hours are steady.
With the dry air, the sun feels strong even if temperatures stay mild.
You’ll want hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially around midday since UV levels are still moderate to high.
Cloudiest and Clearest Months
June and July have the clearest skies, with almost no rain and barely any clouds.
These months are the safest bet for outdoor plans—weather disruptions are rare.
August stays mostly clear, though you might notice a bit more haze as the dry season wears on.
Still, overcast days are pretty rare.
December through February are the cloudiest, but that’s well outside of winter.
If you’re visiting in winter, expect almost nonstop sunshine and very few cloudy days.
Humidity, Wind, and Other Weather Factors
In winter, Livingstone’s weather is shaped by low rainfall, cool nights, and lots of sun.
Humidity, wind, and UV levels all shift, and these changes directly impact comfort, outdoor fun, and health precautions.
Typical Humidity Levels
Humidity drops a lot in winter compared to the rainy months.
From June through August, average relative humidity falls to 24–50%, with September hitting the driest point at about 24%.
This dry air feels comfortable during the day, even when it’s in the upper 20s °C (mid-70s to mid-80s °F).
At night, the dryness and cooler temps make the chill feel sharper.
With less moisture, you won’t get sticky or heavy air.
But if you’re not used to it, the dryness can bother your skin or throat.
Drinking water and using a light moisturizer helps.
Wind Speeds and Directions
Winds in Livingstone during winter stay light to moderate.
Average speeds are 8.2 km/h (5.1 mph) in June and July, rising to about 9 km/h (5.6 mph) by August.
These gentle breezes make warm days more pleasant without getting annoying.
The winds usually blow from the east or southeast, shaped by regional pressure patterns.
This airflow keeps things dry and skies clear.
Evenings are calm, with just a mild breeze—perfect for outdoor dining or night tours near Victoria Falls.
During the day, the wind helps disperse heat, so safaris or walking tours stay comfortable, even under the strong sun.
UV Index and Air Quality
Even though the temperatures feel cooler, the UV index stays high in winter. Most days, it hovers between 5 and 6. You can still get sunburned if you’re outside too long without protection. I’d say it’s wise to grab sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—especially if you’re out around midday.
Air quality usually turns out great during this season. There’s not much rain or dust, so the air feels clear and fresh. You’ll notice the visibility can stretch beyond 10 km, which really suits sightseeing and snapping photos.
Sometimes, you might spot haze or a bit of smoke because of controlled agricultural burning nearby. These smoky patches don’t last long, but if you have any respiratory issues, it’s something to keep in mind.
Travel Tips for Visiting Livingstone in Winter
Livingstone’s winter brings warm days and cooler nights. There’s also more rainfall than in the dry season. You’ll want to prep for outdoor adventures and the occasional shower, but honestly, the daytime weather feels pretty comfortable.
What to Pack for Winter
Bring clothes that work for warm afternoons and chillier evenings. Lightweight shirts and trousers help during the day. At night, a light jacket or sweater comes in handy, since temps can dip to about 19°C (66°F).
Don’t forget waterproof gear like a rain jacket or a small umbrella. December through February brings regular rain. Quick-dry clothes and sturdy shoes help when you’re walking near Victoria Falls or on soggy ground.
You’ll still need sun protection in winter. Pack sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat because the UV index doesn’t really let up. A small backpack works well for carrying layers, water, and your rain gear on day trips.
If you’re heading to game reserves or river cruises, go for neutral-colored clothing to blend in. Bright reds or neon colors tend to stand out, which isn’t ideal for wildlife viewing.
Recommended Activities
Victoria Falls puts on a dramatic show in winter since it’s the rainy season. Guided tours along the viewpoints offer amazing sights, but you’ll probably deal with mist and slippery paths. Bring waterproof covers for your electronics and camera gear.
Sunset cruises on the Zambezi are still a hit, though it’s smart to check the weather before you book. Birdwatching is fantastic right now, with migratory birds arriving and the landscape turning lush.
Game drives in nearby parks are still an option. Just know that thicker vegetation can make spotting animals a bit harder. Walking safaris aren’t as common when it’s pouring, so you might need to adjust your plans. Museums and craft markets in Livingstone town give you a cozy indoor break if the weather gets in the way.
Best Times for Outdoor Exploration
Daytime highs usually hit 28–31°C (82–88°F). Honestly, mornings and late afternoons just feel better for being outside.
You’ll notice midday gets pretty humid, especially if it’s rained. That’s a good time to duck inside or just take it easy.
Sunrise shows up around 5:30–6:00 a.m., so you’ve got a nice window of cooler weather for sightseeing or spotting wildlife.
Evenings drop to about 19–21°C (66–70°F). That’s perfect for a walk or grabbing dinner outside, if you ask me.
Rain showers tend to pop up in the afternoon or evening. If you want to avoid getting caught, try booking longer adventures like Victoria Falls tours or game drives earlier in the day.
Weather can flip pretty fast during the wet season, so it’s smart to keep your plans loose.