Things to Do in Harare in February

February Weather in Harare

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak summer season means lush green landscapes and gardens are at their most beautiful - perfect for photography and outdoor activities before the dry season browns everything out
Afternoon thunderstorms provide natural cooling and create dramatic sky photography opportunities, plus they're predictable (usually 2-4pm) so you can plan indoor activities around them
Hotel rates are 15-25% lower than peak tourist months (April-August) as it's just after the December holiday rush but before Easter crowds arrive
Ideal temperature for walking tours and market visits - mornings are cool at 16°C (60°F) and afternoons peak at comfortable 25°C (78°F) without the scorching heat of October-November

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 10 out of 31 days and can be intense - outdoor activities like hiking or market visits need morning scheduling or indoor backup plans
Humidity at 70% makes it feel warmer than actual temperature, especially for visitors from dry climates - expect to feel sticky and need more frequent clothing changes
Some outdoor attractions like Domboshava Rock may be slippery after rains, limiting hiking options for several hours after storms pass

Best Activities in February

Harare Gardens and Botanical Walking Tours

February's rains create the year's most vibrant displays at Harare Gardens and surrounding botanical areas. Morning temperatures of 16-20°C (60-68°F) are perfect for walking before the afternoon heat and storms. The Jacaranda trees are in full bloom, creating purple canopies throughout the city's avenues.

Booking Tip: Best experienced 7-10am to avoid afternoon storms. Self-guided is free, or join morning walking groups that meet at Harare Gardens main gate. Allow 2-3 hours. No advance booking needed for gardens entry.

Mbare Musika Market Cultural Experiences

February brings fresh summer produce to Zimbabwe's largest market, making it the ideal time for authentic cultural immersion and food experiences. The covered sections provide shelter during afternoon storms, and vendors are in great spirits with abundant seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Booking Tip: Visit between 8-11am for best selection and cooler temperatures. Cultural guides typically charge USD 15-25 for 2-hour experiences. Book through your accommodation or see current options in booking section below. Bring small USD notes for purchases.

Mukuvisi Woodlands Wildlife Encounters

The rainy season brings active wildlife viewing as animals are more visible around water sources. February's temperatures are ideal for the 3 km (1.9 mile) walking trails, and the vegetation is lush without being overgrown. Morning game walks at 6:30am offer the best wildlife sightings.

Booking Tip: Morning walks at 6:30am are essential - book 2-3 days ahead through the park directly. Entry fees around USD 8-12 for non-residents. Walking safaris last 2-3 hours. Afternoon slots often cancelled due to storms.

Shona Sculpture Gallery Tours

Indoor cultural activities are perfect for February's unpredictable afternoon weather. Zimbabwe's world-renowned stone sculpture scene is best experienced in air-conditioned galleries during the humid summer months. Several galleries in Harare's Avondale and Borrowdale areas showcase contemporary and traditional works.

Booking Tip: Gallery hopping works well 10am-4pm with flexibility for weather. Most galleries are free entry, with sculptures ranging USD 50-500+. Chapungu Sculpture Park combines outdoor and covered areas. Allow full afternoon with storm backup plans.

Balancing Rocks Hiking and Photography

February's dramatic afternoon storm clouds create spectacular photography backdrops for the famous balancing rock formations at Epworth and other sites around Harare. The vegetation is lush green, contrasting beautifully with the ancient granite formations.

Booking Tip: Essential to go early morning (6-9am) before storms and heat. Epworth Balancing Rocks is 30 km (18.6 miles) from city center. Self-drive or arrange transport through accommodation. Entry fees typically USD 3-5. Avoid after rains - rocks become slippery.

Traditional Beer Garden Experiences

February evenings are perfect for experiencing Harare's social scene at traditional beer gardens and outdoor venues. After the afternoon storms clear, temperatures drop to comfortable 18-22°C (64-72°F) and humidity decreases, creating ideal conditions for outdoor socializing with locals over traditional beer and food.

Booking Tip: Best after 5pm when storms have passed and temperatures cool. Popular venues in Mbare, Highfield, and city center areas. No advance booking needed, but go with local contact or through cultural tour guides. Budget USD 10-20 for evening including drinks and food.

February Events & Festivals

Throughout February

Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) Preparations

While HIFA typically occurs in April-May, February sees numerous preparatory events, workshops, and artist showcases throughout the city as performers prepare for the main festival. Local venues host preview performances and workshops.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon storms are intense but brief, lasting 20-30 minutes

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps moisture and becomes uncomfortable

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and reflection from wet surfaces increases exposure

Comfortable waterproof walking shoes - streets flood briefly during storms and some areas remain muddy

Quick-dry clothing for at least 2 outfit changes - humidity and occasional rain means clothing stays damp longer

Light layers for temperature variation - morning starts at 16°C (60°F) but reaches 25°C (78°F) by afternoon

Plastic bags or dry bag for electronics - protect phones and cameras during sudden downpours

Insect repellent with DEET - standing water after rains increases mosquito activity in evening hours

Cash in small USD denominations - many vendors and local experiences prefer US dollars, especially at markets

Power bank - afternoon storms sometimes cause brief power outages affecting phone charging

Insider Knowledge

Locals schedule important outdoor activities between 6-11am, then retreat indoors during peak heat and storm hours from 2-5pm - follow this rhythm for a more authentic experience

February is mango season - street vendors sell the sweetest varieties for USD 0.25-0.50 each, but locals know to buy early morning before the heat makes them overripe

Many restaurants and cafes offer 'storm specials' or extended happy hours during afternoon downpours - this is when you'll find the best deals and most relaxed atmosphere

The city's water pressure is best in February due to full reservoirs from rains - this is the ideal time for comfortable hotel stays, while dry season months often have water restrictions