Harare sits at 1,500 metres on the central plateau, which gives it a much more temperate climate than most of sub-Saharan Africa. Temperatures are rarely extreme. The main consideration for timing a visit is the rainy season.
Dry season (May–October)
The best time to visit. Days are mostly clear and sunny, temperatures are pleasant (18–25°C), and the roads and parks are in good condition. July and August are the coolest months — bring a jumper for evenings. Wildlife is easier to spot in the parks outside Harare as the vegetation thins.
Rainy season (November–April)
Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent and sometimes heavy, though they usually clear quickly. The city and countryside turn intensely green, and the jacaranda trees that line Harare's avenues bloom in November in spectacular purple. Road conditions can deteriorate in heavy rain. This is still a viable time to visit — just bring rain gear.
HIFA (Harare International Festival of the Arts)
Held annually in the Harare Gardens in late April or early May, HIFA is the biggest arts festival in southern Africa. If your timing coincides, it's worth building your visit around it.