The Eastern Highlands have a distinct climate compared to the rest of Zimbabwe. Rain falls mainly from November to March, often as afternoon thunderstorms. The wet season turns the mountains vivid green but can make hiking trails slippery and some roads difficult. April and May are excellent: the rains have just ended, the vegetation is lush, rivers are full, and the waterfalls are at their most dramatic.
The dry season (May to October) is the preferred time for most visitors. The air is cool and clear, and the mountain trails are dry underfoot. June and July can be cold at altitude — temperatures below 5°C at night in the Nyanga highlands. September and October bring warm days before the rains return. Birdwatching is excellent year-round, though some migratory species arrive with the rains.