Year-round weather and climate in Lusaka, Zambia
Average temperatures in Lusaka run from an average low of 12°C54°F in July up to an average high of 31°C88°F in October. May is the driest month at 0 rainy days; January the wettest at 26. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 2.2M
- Currency
- ZMW
- Language
- English
- Time zone
- Lusaka
Best time to visit
The most pleasant weather falls in July, August, and September, offering a perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Rain character
Tropical Downpours: Expect intense bursts of rain during wetter months. Pack quick-drying footwear and a compact umbrella.
Day-to-night swing
The Daypack Trap: Beware the "noon illusion". In months like September, crisp sunny days drop off a cliff by 13°C23°F at sunset. Always carry an evening layer.
Seasonality Profile
Humid Subtropical: Sweltering, wet summers accompanied by mild, drier winters.
Evening vibe
Outdoor Haven: With over half the year supporting mild evenings, open-air dining and rooftop bars are the norm. Pack smart-casual, breathable evening wear.
Sightseeing stamina
Summer Heat Fatigue: Midday heat in October is intense. Pack high-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in Lusaka, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. May is typically driest at 0 days (0mm); Jan the wettest at 26 days (294mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 25°C / 76°F | 18°C / 64°F | 8h | 26 | 294mm |
| Feb | 27°C / 81°F | 18°C / 64°F | 11h | 15 | 87mm |
| Mar | 27°C / 80°F | 18°C / 64°F | 11h | 13 | 39mm |
| Apr | 26°C / 79°F | 16°C / 61°F | 11h | 5 | 25mm |
| May | 25°C / 78°F | 15°C / 58°F | 11h | 0 | 0mm |
| Jun | 24°C / 76°F | 14°C / 56°F | 11h | 0 | 0mm |
| Jul | 24°C / 76°F | 12°C / 54°F | 11h | 0 | 0mm |
| Aug | 26°C / 79°F | 14°C / 58°F | 11h | 1 | 1mm |
| Sep | 30°C / 87°F | 18°C / 64°F | 12h | 0 | 0mm |
| Oct | 31°C / 88°F | 19°C / 67°F | 11h | 5 | 31mm |
| Nov | 31°C / 87°F | 19°C / 67°F | 11h | 10 | 54mm |
| Dec | 30°C / 86°F | 20°C / 68°F | 11h | 15 | 98mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Lusaka?
The most sunshine in Lusaka comes around September, averaging 12 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Lusaka?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Lusaka swing from an average low of 12°C54°F in July up to 31°C88°F in October. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for Lusaka?
Lusaka gets rain on about 90 days out of the year. The wettest month is January. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in Lusaka with Packola.
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