Zanzibar weather by month
Average daily high and low, total rainfall and days with at least 2.5 mm of rain.
| Month | High / low | Rain | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 33°C / 25°C | 206 mm · 10 days | Hot |
| February | 34°C / 25°C | 105 mm · 8 days | Hot |
| March | 33°C / 25°C | 284 mm · 14 days | Hot |
| April | 31°C / 25°C | 410 mm · 17 days | Wet |
| May | 30°C / 24°C | 445 mm · 16 days | Wet |
| June | 30°C / 23°C | 139 mm · 9 days | Fair |
| July | 30°C / 23°C | 105 mm · 7 days | Fair |
| August | 30°C / 22°C | 103 mm · 7 days | Fair |
| September | 31°C / 22°C | 86 mm · 7 days | Fair |
| October | 31°C / 23°C | 225 mm · 11 days | Hot |
| November | 31°C / 24°C | 278 mm · 15 days | Hot |
| December | 32°C / 24°C | 253 mm · 14 days | Hot |
Zanzibar by season
Spring
March to May is the primary rainy season (Masika), characterized by long, heavy downpours and high humidity. Many businesses in beach areas close.
- + Lush, green landscapes
- + Lowest tourist crowds and prices
- + Spice plantations are vibrant
- − Frequent and heavy rainfall
- − Some resorts and restaurants closed
Summer
June to October is the cool, dry season. This is peak tourist season with sunny days, low humidity, and excellent conditions for beach and water activities.
- + Perfect beach weather: sunny & dry
- + Best for diving & snorkeling (clear water)
- + Ideal for cultural tours and spice tours
- − Highest prices for flights & accommodation
- − More crowded at popular sites
Autumn
November is a short, unpredictable rainy period (Vuli). December sees the return of drier, hotter weather, marking the start of another high season.
- + Landscapes are green from Nov rains
- + Good travel deals in early November
- + Festive atmosphere in December
- − Short, intense rains in November
- − Hot and humid in December
Winter
December to February is hot and humid, with generally good weather. This is another peak season, perfect for beach holidays and celebrating the holidays.
- + Warm sea temperatures
- + Great for swimming and sunbathing
- + Lively atmosphere over holidays
- − High humidity
- − Peak season crowds and prices
Zanzibar month by month
Zanzibar in January
HotIn January, Zanzibar averages highs of 33°C and lows of 25°C, with about 10 rainy days and 206 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Zanzibar in February
HotIn February, Zanzibar averages highs of 34°C and lows of 25°C, with about 8 rainy days and 105 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Zanzibar in March
HotIn March, Zanzibar averages highs of 33°C and lows of 25°C, with about 14 rainy days and 284 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Zanzibar in April
WetIn April, Zanzibar averages highs of 31°C and lows of 25°C, with about 17 rainy days and 410 mm of rain. It is one of the wetter months, so keep indoor plans in reserve.
Zanzibar in May
WetIn May, Zanzibar averages highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C, with about 16 rainy days and 445 mm of rain. It is one of the wetter months, so keep indoor plans in reserve.
Zanzibar in June
FairIn June, Zanzibar averages highs of 30°C and lows of 23°C, with about 9 rainy days and 139 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.
Zanzibar in July
FairIn July, Zanzibar averages highs of 30°C and lows of 23°C, with about 7 rainy days and 105 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.
Zanzibar in August
FairIn August, Zanzibar averages highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C, with about 7 rainy days and 103 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.
Zanzibar in September
FairIn September, Zanzibar averages highs of 31°C and lows of 22°C, with about 7 rainy days and 86 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.
Zanzibar in October
HotIn October, Zanzibar averages highs of 31°C and lows of 23°C, with about 11 rainy days and 225 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Zanzibar in November
HotIn November, Zanzibar averages highs of 31°C and lows of 24°C, with about 15 rainy days and 278 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Zanzibar in December
HotIn December, Zanzibar averages highs of 32°C and lows of 24°C, with about 14 rainy days and 253 mm of rain. It is hot, so plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.
Plan your Zanzibar trip
Best time to visit Zanzibar: FAQ
What is the best month to visit Zanzibar?+
June is the most comfortable month on average, with highs of 30°C. July and August are close behind.
What is the rainiest month in Zanzibar?+
May is the wettest month, with about 445 mm of rain.
How hot does Zanzibar get?+
February is the warmest month, with average highs of 34°C and lows of 25°C. The coldest nights come in August, averaging 22°C.
Averages for 2006–2025 from the ZANZIBAR weather station (7 km from the centre), NOAA Global Historical Climatology Network. Verdicts rate sightseeing comfort from daytime highs and rainy days.