Map of Zanzibar - google map of Zanzibar from satellite images (2023)

As on mainland Tanzania, January typically marks the beginning of the short dry season in Zanzibar. It's likely to be hot and mostly dry, with temperatures above 30°C, although tropical rain showers are not uncommon in the afternoon. January can be very humid at times, which is especially noticeable in Stone Town, although this can be mitigated by the cool sea breeze.

New Year's Day is one of the most popular times to visit Zanzibar as many hotels are fully booked during the festive season. After January 10, the island generally gets much quieter and prices also drop.

Good time to visit, with pros and cons

The weather in February is quite similar to January, days are generally warm and sunny, although occasional rainy periods can be expected. Humidity remains high, but refreshing breezes often blow in coastal areas. Zanzibar is pretty quiet in February, and with relatively low prices, it can be excellent value for money.

At this time the wind blows from the northeast, so the southwest coast is often sheltered, and Menai Bay is ideal for snorkelling. The northeast wind can also create good conditions for kitesurfing, with many kitesurfers flocking to the southeastern coast and the Michamvi peninsula. For music lovers, Stone Town hosts the African music festival "Sauti za Busara" every February. The dates of the festival change every year; ask us for more information.

Good time to visit, with pros and cons

In March, the "long rains" begin in Zanzibar, although the exact date of their beginning varies each year. The weather can be unpredictable, with a combination of warm, sunny days, downpours and the occasional tropical storm. The onset of rain lowers the humidity and can also lead to beautiful sunsets - most notable on the west coast where you can watch the sunset over the ocean. In March, prices will stay low and it is likely to be relatively calm on the island.

Scuba diving is generally not recommended during the rainy season as changing conditions can lead to reduced visibility due to dripping rain and choppy water.

This is not a good time to visit

April is usually the wettest month of the year in Zanzibar and the long downpours are in full swing. The average rainfall this month exceeds 250 mm and tropical storms are frequent. Flooding is a common occurrence that can affect the quality of the roads and cause difficult and slow driving around the island. Many hotels and beach houses are currently closed, so accommodation options may be limited. Having said that, the prices are the lowest, and if you don't mind the risk of bad weather, you can hit some real bargains.

Despite the poor conditions, the Easter weekend is often popular and advance booking is recommended. Due to the high risk of precipitation and poor conditions, diving is not currently recommended.

A time to avoid if possible

Long downpours continue into May and, as in April, thunderstorms and torrential downpours can be expected, although they generally lessen towards the end of the month. Flooding may occur in some parts of the island, causing damage to roads and negatively affecting travel times. In May, the temperature usually drops slightly, with an average daytime temperature of around 25°C. Rain also lowers the humidity, and mornings and evenings can be a bit cooler.

Many hotels and lodges are still closed, but a few remain open and prices remain low. Although diving is possible, rain and storms make diving conditions suboptimal.

A time to avoid if possible

June marks the beginning of the long dry season in Zanzibar. Although it still rains on the island, especially at the beginning of the month, the risk is that it will decrease as the month progresses. Temperatures remain stable with average daytime highs of 25°C, and it is likely to be mostly dry. The rain you will experience is likely to occur in shorter periods than heavy thunderstorms and hours of continuous rain, although conditions vary from year to year.

The wind direction is shifting to the southeast, and the northeast coast is now probably sheltered. Diving conditions can be variable and while generally good, there are some difficult days.

Good time to visit, with pros and cons

July is a very popular time to go to Zanzibar, and this coincides with the long dry season. July and August are school holidays in much of Europe, and Zanzibar is often full of families. The weather conditions are generally warm and dry and rather ideal for a beach holiday, but there is still a chance for a few short showers. Diving conditions are generally quite good, but it will depend on recent weather conditions.

The Zanzibar International Film Festival takes place in July and many people flock to Stone Town to soak up its atmosphere. The dates of the festival change every year, so talk to Expert Africa for more information.

Very good time to visit

August is one of the most popular times of year to visit Zanzibar, and for good reason; this is one of the driest months, usually warm and cloudless - perfect for relaxing on the beach. Many families go to the island in August, and the island can get crowded, which is especially evident in Stone Town and around the more popular snorkeling spots.

High demand can mean that many of the most popular hotels and beachfront cottages can be booked up more than six months in advance, so booking in advance is crucial. Due to the popularity and beautiful weather on the beach, prices are high.

Fantastic: best time to visit

September is a great time of year to visit Zanzibar. The weather conditions are generally very good, the sky is clear and temperatures range from 20 to 30°C. September is also one of the driest months, with an average rainfall of 50 mm per month, but showers are still possible. Due to the good conditions on the beach, prices remain high, but with fewer families traveling in September, things may be a bit quieter on the island now.

September to December are often the calmest months at sea, which can result in excellent diving conditions. The wind usually blows from the southeast, and the northeast coast is often somewhat sheltered. There are many beautiful snorkeling and diving spots around Mnemba Island.

Fantastic: best time to visit

October is the end of the dry season and you can generally expect warm and dry conditions. Short rain showers usually start in early November, so the risk of rainy periods increases as the month progresses. October remains a popular month for travel, especially during the European school holidays, so booking in advance is recommended.

Due to high demand and nice weather, prices remain high, but there are special offers for longer stays. South-easterly winds mean the northeast coast can be sheltered and diving conditions can be good.

Very good time to visit

The short rains begin in November, but their exact start varies from year to year. Chances are you'll experience a mix of warm and dry days with the occasional tropical shower, but it turns out that short showers can be quite refreshing. With the onset of rain, humidity can rise sharply and while coastal areas usually have a nice cooling breeze, Stone Town and the interior of the island can be quite hot and humid.

Prices drop in November and you can find some real bargains. You can get great value for money at this time of year, especially at the beginning of the month when weather conditions are similar to those seen in late October. Demand is generally lower and the island is starting to be much calmer.

Good time to visit, with pros and cons

December falls in the short rainy season and the weather can be changeable. Days are likely to be warm and humid with occasional showers, although showers can be a blessing in disguise as they help keep temperatures down. The beginning of December is quite calm and prices are low, but the situation changes radically around Christmas and New Year.

The holiday season, which runs from around December 20 to January 5, is probably the most popular time to visit Zanzibar. Prices are the highest and long minimum stays apply. Due to the very high demand, early booking is essential, especially if you are coming with a group or a large family. Book six months or a year in advance, and even longer if possible.

Good time to visit, with pros and cons