Victoria Falls · Month comparison

January vs September

September ranks #1 overall vs January at #11. The sweet spot — Devil's Pool prime, superb game viewing, and clear skies over the full gorge

Lush green Zambezi riverbank in Zimbabwe's green season

January

#11 of 12 months

Strong option

Green season with a rising Zambezi — lush landscapes and wildlife at their most fecund

  • ↑Lush green bush and elephant calves born during the green season
  • ↑Lowest prices of the year on lodges and activities
Swimmer at Devil's Pool on the edge of Victoria Falls, Zambia

September

#1 of 12 months

Best match

The sweet spot — Devil's Pool prime, superb game viewing, and clear skies over the full gorge

  • ↑Devil's Pool at absolute prime — sit on the lip of Victoria Falls with clear views into the gorge
  • ↑Superb game drives: herds desperate for water concentrate at Zambezi and Chobe
FactorJanuarySeptember
Weather score
6
9
Value score
7
4
Crowd score
4
7
Events score
3
6
Atmosphere
6
9
Avg high temp29°C31°C
Monthly rain190mm5mm
Daily sunshine6.5hrs10.5hrs

January trade-offs

  • ↓Afternoon rain showers are common; outdoor plans need flexibility
  • ↓Lower water levels in early January mean the falls are not at full drama

September trade-offs

  • ↓Peak prices for guided activities; some lodges at premium rates
  • ↓Midday temperatures climbing to 32°C+ — plan accordingly
See all 12 months for Victoria Falls →January in detail →September in detail →
Scores compare months within Victoria Falls. Climate data: Open Meteo ERA5 30-year normals (1991–2020). Methodology →