Zanzibar is warm all year, with sea temperatures between about 25°C and 29°C. The best weather comes in the two dry seasons: June to October, when it is sunny and a little cooler, and December to February, when it is hot and humid. The long rains fall from March to May.
Zanzibar weather by month
| Months | Weather | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| January–February | Hot, mostly dry, around 32°C | Calm seas, excellent diving and snorkelling |
| March | Hot, rains starting | Prices start to fall |
| April–May | Long rains, humid, heavy showers | Some hotels close; lowest prices |
| June | Drying out, pleasant | Good value before high season |
| July–October | Dry, sunny, breezy, around 28°C | Peak season; kitesurfing on the east coast |
| November | Short rains, usually brief showers | Quieter and cheaper |
| December | Hot, mostly dry | Busy over Christmas and New Year |
Combining with a safari
The June to October dry season is also the best time for a safari in northern Tanzania, including the river crossings of the Great Migration. January and February suit both too, with calving season in the southern Serengeti. Read the best time for a safari in Tanzania.
Sea conditions
- Diving and snorkelling: best from October to March, when water is calmer and clearer.
- Kitesurfing: best from June to September and December to February, when the trade winds blow on the east coast around Paje.
- Tides: the east coast has large tides all year. Read about Zanzibar beaches before you choose a hotel.
Ramadan
Most Zanzibaris are Muslim. During Ramadan, which moves about 11 days earlier each year, many local restaurants in Stone Town close during the day and the pace is slower. Hotels and resorts operate normally. It is respectful not to eat, drink or smoke in public in towns and villages during daylight hours. The celebrations of Eid at the end are lively.
Plan your trip
See our Zanzibar beach week or safari and Zanzibar. Read how much Zanzibar costs.
Frequently asked questions
July to October and January to February usually have the best weather. September and February are often the sweet spots.
The long rains run from March to May, with April the wettest. November has shorter showers.
Yes. Hotels operate normally, but towns are quieter by day and visitors should not eat or drink in public during daylight.
