Year-round weather and climate in Zanzibar, Tanzania
Average temperatures in Zanzibar run from an average low of 22°C72°F in August up to an average high of 33°C91°F in February. January is the driest month at 14 rainy days; April the wettest at 26. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 710K
- Currency
- TZS
- Language
- English / Swahili
- Time zone
- Dar es Salaam
Best time to visit
The most pleasant weather falls in May, June, and July, offering a perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Rain character
Tropical Downpours: Expect intense bursts of rain during wetter months. Pack quick-drying footwear and a compact umbrella.
Day-to-night swing
Evening Chill: Temperatures drop by a noticeable 8°C14°F when the sun goes down. A light sweater or jacket is usually all you need for evening plans.
Seasonality Profile
Tropical Monsoon: Consistent heat year-round. Defined entirely by its dramatic shift between extreme dry and torrential wet seasons.
Evening vibe
Cozy Indoor Culture: Evenings are generally crisp, damp, or sweltering. Nightlife centers around indoor venues.
Sightseeing stamina
Summer Heat Fatigue: Midday heat in January, February, March, and October is intense. Pack high-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in Zanzibar, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. Jan is typically driest at 14 days (115mm); Apr the wettest at 26 days (469mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 32°C / 89°F | 25°C / 77°F | 11h | 14 | 115mm |
| Feb | 33°C / 92°F | 26°C / 78°F | 11h | 14 | 41mm |
| Mar | 32°C / 90°F | 25°C / 78°F | 10h | 20 | 130mm |
| Apr | 29°C / 83°F | 24°C / 76°F | 7h | 26 | 469mm |
| May | 29°C / 83°F | 24°C / 76°F | 10h | 17 | 132mm |
| Jun | 28°C / 82°F | 23°C / 74°F | 10h | 15 | 62mm |
| Jul | 28°C / 82°F | 22°C / 72°F | 11h | 14 | 49mm |
| Aug | 29°C / 84°F | 22°C / 72°F | 11h | 21 | 56mm |
| Sep | 30°C / 86°F | 22°C / 72°F | 11h | 17 | 49mm |
| Oct | 31°C / 88°F | 23°C / 74°F | 11h | 22 | 103mm |
| Nov | 30°C / 86°F | 24°C / 75°F | 10h | 25 | 251mm |
| Dec | 31°C / 87°F | 25°C / 77°F | 12h | 25 | 144mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Zanzibar?
The most sunshine in Zanzibar comes around December, averaging 12 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Zanzibar?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Zanzibar swing from an average low of 22°C72°F in August up to 33°C91°F in February. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for Zanzibar?
Zanzibar gets rain on about 230 days out of the year. The wettest month is April. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in Zanzibar with Packola.
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