Zanzibar
Tanzania · Africa
Zanzibar – What you should know
Zanzibar lies just south of the equator and has a tropical climate with two monsoon periods. The short rainy season (Mvuli) runs from October to December, the long rainy season (Masika) from March to May. Beach travellers should especially avoid the Masika season, with its daily long downpours.
The ideal travel time for Zanzibar is June to October and December to February: the weather is dry and sunny, the sea calm and clear. Water temperatures average 25–29°C — perfect for snorkelling and diving around the surrounding coral reefs.
Zanzibar offers a special natural spectacle from July to September: during this period whale sharks regularly appear in the waters around the island. Guided snorkelling and diving tours to these gentle giants are one of the highlights of a Zanzibar trip.
Climate Overview
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MAXMax Temp | 33° | 33° | 33° | 31° | 30° | 30° | 29° | 30° | 31° | 31° | 31° | 32° |
MINMin Temp | 26° | 26° | 25° | 25° | 24° | 23° | 22° | 22° | 22° | 23° | 24° | 25° |
☀️Sunshine | 8h | 8h | 7h | 5h | 6h | 7h | 7h | 7h | 8h | 8h | 8h | 8h |
🌊Water Temp | 29° | 29° | 30° | 29° | 28° | 27° | 26° | 26° | 26° | 27° | 28° | 29° |
🌧Rain Days | 5d70mm | 3d46mm | 10d180mm | 15d371mm | 11d270mm | 4d46mm | 3d34mm | 5d47mm | 3d47mm | 6d105mm | 12d267mm | 12d200mm |
Best travel time
The best time to visit Zanzibar is January, February, June, July, August, September, and October. In summer, temperatures rise to 33°C; in winter they can drop to 21°C. All climate data are based on historical monthly averages (2005–2025) to help you plan the optimal travel time.
Travel Tips
December offers great weather in Zanzibar with fewer tourists and lower prices — ideal for those who want to avoid the peak season crowds.
Events & Festivals
June
- Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF)Ende Juni (ca. 5 Tage)
Das größte Filmfestival Ostafrikas zeigt Produktionen aus ganz Afrika und dem Indischen Ozean an Freiluftkinos in Stone Town. Abendliche Screenings im Innenhof des alten Arabischen Forts gehören zu den atmosphärischsten Kinoerlebnissen überhaupt.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
- The best time to visit Zanzibar is January, February, June, July, August, September, and October. These months offer the most favourable combination of sunshine, temperatures, and low rainfall.
- How warm does it get in Zanzibar?
- In summer, temperatures in Zanzibar can reach up to 33°C. In winter, they may drop to 21°C.
- How much rain does Zanzibar get?
- Zanzibar has a relatively even rainfall pattern with an average of 7 rain days per month. The driest months are January, February, June, July, August, September, and October.
- How warm is the water in Zanzibar?
- Water temperature in Zanzibar ranges from 26°C (August) to 29°C (March). During the best travel months (January, February, June, July, August, September, and October), the water is most pleasant for swimming.
Best Travel Time by Vacation Type
🏖️
Beach Holiday
Warm, sunny, little rain
JulAugSep
🏙️
City Trip
Pleasantly mild, not too hot
JulAugSep
