Weather overview
Хараре enjoys a subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city’s weather is generally mild, but temperatures and rainfall vary noticeably throughout the year. If you prefer warm days and minimal rain, the dry season is the most comfortable time to explore Хараре.
From November to March, Хараре experiences its rainy season, with frequent showers and higher humidity. The rest of the year is mostly dry, offering clear skies and cooler evenings. Travelers who enjoy sunny, stable weather will find the months between April and October ideal for visiting Хараре.
Temperature
Temperatures in Хараре remain moderate year-round, but there are noticeable seasonal shifts. During the rainy season, daytime highs hover around +25...+28 °C, while nights stay mild at +15...+17 °C. The warmest months are October and November, just before the rains begin, with highs reaching +29 °C.
The coolest period in Хараре falls between June and August, when daytime temperatures average +21...+22 °C, but nights can drop to +7...+10 °C. This is the dry season, so mornings and evenings may feel chilly, especially in July, the coldest month. By September, the heat gradually returns, making it a pleasant time to visit Хараре before the rains arrive.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 17.1 | 25.3 |
| February | 16.9 | 26.2 |
| March | 15.6 | 26.4 |
| April | 13.9 | 25.5 |
| May | 10.1 | 23.7 |
| June | 8.5 | 21.2 |
| July | 7.3 | 21.7 |
| August | 9.7 | 25.1 |
| September | 12.9 | 28 |
| October | 15 | 29 |
| November | 16.7 | 27.9 |
| December | 17.2 | 27.2 |
Precipitation
Хараре has a clear wet and dry season pattern. The heaviest rainfall occurs from December to February, with January being the wettest month at 136.2 mm. Showers are frequent but often short-lived, interspersed with sunny spells. By March, the rains taper off, and April marks the start of the dry season.
From May to September, Хараре sees almost no rain, with monthly precipitation dropping below 3 mm. The air becomes crisp and dry, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities. Light rains return in October, signaling the transition to the wet season, which fully sets in by November.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 136.2 |
| February | 99.6 |
| March | 21.9 |
| April | 58 |
| May | 2.3 |
| June | 2.9 |
| July | 0.4 |
| August | 0.1 |
| September | 0.5 |
| October | 42.7 |
| November | 126.5 |
| December | 154 |
What to pack
If you’re visiting Хараре during the dry season (April to October), pack light layers for warm days and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. A hat and sunscreen are useful year-round, as the sun can be strong even on mild days. Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for exploring the city’s parks and markets.
For the rainy season (November to March), bring a light rain jacket or umbrella, as showers can be sudden. Quick-drying clothing is practical, along with closed-toe shoes to navigate wet streets. Since temperatures remain warm, breathable fabrics will keep you comfortable during the day.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 3.1 |
| February | 3 |
| March | 2.9 |
| April | 2.8 |
| May | 2.8 |
| June | 3 |
| July | 3.1 |
| August | 3.6 |
| September | 4.1 |
| October | 4 |
| November | 3.6 |
| December | 3.4 |