Bulawayo Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Bulawayo.

Climate overview of Bulawayo

The climate in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, sees a moderate range of temperatures across the year, from 31°C (88°F) in October down to 23°C (73°F) in July.

The city receives around 654 mm (26 in) of rainfall per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from April to October. December is the wettest month and August the driest. August is the sunniest month, averaging 10.0 hours of sunshine per day.

Bulawayo Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Bulawayo - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Bulawayo

In Bulawayo, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in October to a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in July.

Nighttime temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) in October to 8°C (46°F) in July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Bulawayo

On average, Bulawayo receives a reasonable amount of rainfall, with an annual precipitation of 654 mm (26 in). The seasons in Bulawayo bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, December, receives high rainfall, with an average of 151 mm (5.9 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 12 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month, August, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 1.7 mm (0.1 in) over a single rainy day. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Bulawayo Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Bulawayo

Bulawayo enjoys sunny spells year-round. August sees up to 10.0 hours of daily sunshine, perfect for a sunny trip. February, the least sunny month, still offers a generous 7.0 hours of sun despite this cloudier time of the year.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Bulawayo by Month

Wind Speed in Bulawayo

Best Time to Visit Bulawayo

For comfortable weather, consider visiting Bulawayo in March, April, May, June, July and August. Conditions are usually least favourable in November.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: March, April, May, June, July and August
  • Warmest weather: September, October and November
  • Most sunshine: July, August and September
  • Fewer rainy days: May, June, July, August and September
  • Wettest months: January, February, March, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from April to October

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Bulawayo

What is the best time to visit Bulawayo?

March, April, May, June, July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Bulawayo. In contrast, November tends to have less optimal conditions. Bulawayo has a distinct dry season from April to October.

What temperatures can I expect in Bulawayo?

Daytime highs range from 23°C (73°F) in July to 31°C (88°F) in October. Nighttime lows range from 8°C (46°F) to 18°C (64°F).

How much rain does Bulawayo get?

Annual rainfall is around 654 mm (26 in). December is the wettest month with 151 mm (5.9 in), while August is the driest with 1.7 mm (0.1 in).

How sunny is Bulawayo?

Bulawayo receives around 3,119 hours of sunshine per year. August is the sunniest month with 301 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 211 hours. Overall, Bulawayo enjoys abundant sunshine.

Bulawayo 3-Day Forecast

Bulawayo on the map

Bulawayo is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.

Popular this month

Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.