Zanzibar Weather Guide
Month-by-month conditions for beach holidays, diving, and spice island adventures
Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but rainfall and humidity vary by season. The island’s weather is influenced by the northeast and southeast trade winds, creating two main dry seasons and two rainy periods. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F).
June to October – Cool, dry, and less humid:
• Temperatures: ~25–28°C (77–82°F)
• Calm seas and clear skies — ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.
• Popular honeymoon and family travel period.
January to February – Warm and sunny short dry season:
• Temperatures: ~28–32°C (82–90°F)
• Great for water sports and spice farm visits.
March to May – Long rains:
• Heavy downpours, often in the afternoon or evening.
• Humid, with some lodges closing for maintenance.
• Not ideal for long beach stays but good for fewer crowds.
November – Short rains:
• Light showers, usually brief.
• Still plenty of sunshine, especially in the mornings.
Activity | Best Months |
Beach holidays | Jun–Oct, Jan–Feb |
Diving/snorkelling north coast | Jun–Oct, Dec–Feb |
Diving/snorkelling south coast | Nov–Mar |
Kitesurfing (east coast) | Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb |
Spice tours | Year-round, best in dry months |
- The north and west coasts (Nungwi, Kendwa, Stone Town) generally have calmer waters year-round.
- The east coast (Paje, Matemwe) can be windy, perfect for kitesurfing in season.
- Bring light, breathable clothing year-round, plus a light rain jacket outside the main dry season.
Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but rainfall and humidity vary by season. The island’s weather is influenced by the northeast and southeast trade winds, creating two main dry seasons and two rainy periods. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F).
June to October – Cool, dry, and less humid:
• Temperatures: ~25–28°C (77–82°F)
• Calm seas and clear skies — ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.
• Popular honeymoon and family travel period.
January to February – Warm and sunny short dry season:
• Temperatures: ~28–32°C (82–90°F)
• Great for water sports and spice farm visits.
March to May – Long rains:
• Heavy downpours, often in the afternoon or evening.
• Humid, with some lodges closing for maintenance.
• Not ideal for long beach stays but good for fewer crowds.
November – Short rains:
• Light showers, usually brief.
• Still plenty of sunshine, especially in the mornings.
Activity | Best Months |
Beach holidays | Jun–Oct, Jan–Feb |
Diving/snorkelling north coast | Jun–Oct, Dec–Feb |
Diving/snorkelling south coast | Nov–Mar |
Kitesurfing (east coast) | Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb |
Spice tours | Year-round, best in dry months |
- The north and west coasts (Nungwi, Kendwa, Stone Town) generally have calmer waters year-round.
- The east coast (Paje, Matemwe) can be windy, perfect for kitesurfing in season.
- Bring light, breathable clothing year-round, plus a light rain jacket outside the main dry season.
