Zanzibar is a year-round destination, but the weather, the sea and the crowds change a lot from month to month. Here’s what each season is really like, so you can pick the right time for your beach holiday, your tours and — if you’re adding one — your Tanzania safari.
The short answer
The best time to visit Zanzibar is June to October (dry, sunny and slightly cooler) and December to February (hot, sunny and humid). The main rainy season, from late March to May, brings heavy showers and the lowest prices. November has short, light rains and is often a good-value month.
Zanzibar seasons at a glance
| Months | Season | What it’s like |
|---|---|---|
| June – October | Long dry season | Sunny days, cooler evenings, low humidity. Peak season for families and safari-and-beach trips. |
| November | Short rains | Short tropical showers, usually in the afternoon. Quieter beaches and better prices. |
| December – February | Hot dry season | The hottest months, with calm, clear water — ideal for snorkeling. Busy around Christmas and New Year. |
| March – May | Long rains | Heavy rain and humidity, especially in April and May. Some hotels close; prices are at their lowest. |
Best time for snorkeling and diving
The sea is usually calmest and clearest from November to March, when the water is warm and visibility around Mnemba Atoll is at its best. Snorkeling is good for most of the year, though — the dry months from June to October can be a little windier on the east coast.
Best time for Safari Blue and sandbank trips
Full-day trips like Safari Blue and the Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank tour run all year. Choose a dry-season day for the best experience — and remember that the sandbanks appear and disappear with the tide, so your guide will plan the day around it.
Best time to see dolphins and whales
Dolphins live off the south coast all year, so the Kizimkazi dolphin tour can be done in any month — early morning is best. Humpback whales pass Zanzibar on their migration roughly July to October, and whale sharks gather around Mafia Island from about October to March (see our Mafia Island whale shark day trip).
Best time to combine Zanzibar with a safari
The dry season from June to October is the classic time for a Tanzania safari, when animals gather near water and are easier to spot. In the Serengeti, the Great Migration’s river crossings usually happen in the north of the park from about July to October, while calving season is in the south from about January to February. You can also fly from Zanzibar for a one-day Mikumi safari in almost any month. See all our Tanzania safaris.
Is it worth visiting in the rainy season?
Yes, if you want lower prices and fewer people. Rain usually comes in heavy bursts rather than all day, and the island is green and beautiful. Just keep your plans flexible, pack a light rain jacket and choose a hotel that is open all year.
A note on Ramadan
Zanzibar is a mostly Muslim island. During Ramadan (its dates move each year), many local restaurants close during the day, especially in Stone Town and the villages. Hotels and tours carry on as normal, and it’s a fascinating time to experience local culture — just be respectful by not eating or drinking in public during the day.
Which beach should I choose?
- Nungwi and Kendwa (north) — swim at any tide and enjoy the best sunsets on the island.
- Paje, Jambiani and Bwejuu (south-east) — quiet, wide beaches with big tides; great for kitesurfing.
- Matemwe and Kiwengwa (east) — calm lagoons close to Mnemba Atoll.
Browse our Zanzibar holiday packages for every beach area.
Plan your Zanzibar trip with us
We’re a local tour operator based in Nungwi. Tell us your dates and we’ll suggest the best tours for your trip — message us on WhatsApp or send an enquiry.