Best time to visit Zanzibar

Zanzibar is great to visit all year round, but February is one of the best months for watersports and exploring what Zanzibar has to offer.

Although Zanzibar has no large wild mammals, smaller animals and marine life contribute to unique experiences.

Unique wildlife such as the elephant shrew, tree hyraxes, and the red-colobus monkey is endemic to Zanzibar, with the red-colobus monkey being the star animal of the region.

Zanzibar is not just about its stunning attractions; it’s also a melting pot of cultures! With influences from Arabia, Persia, India, and Europe, this region has a truly unique and vibrant identity that makes it even more special.

Weather in February

Days typically mirror January in terms of clear skies and sunny days.

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

Pemba Island

Pemba Island, one of the lesser-known islands in Zanzibar’s archipelago, is truly an underwater paradise. This stunning location is home to a variety of colourful fish, as well as whales and sharks.

Wildlife enthusiasts will also find fascinating creatures such as flying foxes and vervet monkeys on the island.

Pemba Island is the perfect destination for tranquillity or a romantic getaway. Here, you can enjoy a range of water sports activities and even take a ride on a traditional boat.

Activities to do in February

• Spa treatments
• Windsurfing
• Diving

March marks the start of the long rains, and around this time of year, the weather is often a mix of hot sunny days and short, fierce thunderstorms.

Rain typically doesn’t continue for days, and diving conditions stay excellent until mid-March before the long rains occur more frequently.

Before the rain intensifies, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Zanzibar boasts numerous fascinating locations, and Stone Town – a Unesco World Heritage city, is one of its top tourist attractions.

At Stone Town, you have many architectural treasures to explore, such as The House of Wonders and the Arab Fort, which gives a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage.

Weather in March

Rain starts to fall by mid-March, but temperatures remain relatively high, reaching an average of 30 degrees.

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

Kendwa Beach

Kendwa Beach is known for its powdery sands and vibrant environment. The region has a vibrant nightlife scene if you’re looking for some excitement.

Underwater experiences are exceptional, colourful marine life is common, and there is a variety of watersports if you’re looking to have some fun in the sun.

Activities to do in March

• Spa treatments

4 DAYS

East Africa Beach Extension Zuri

Zanzibar

'; $1350 USD

$1890 USD

per person sharing per tour

7 DAYS

Pemba Holidays at Fundu Lagoon

Zanzibar

'; $2290 USD

$3500 USD

per person sharing per tour

6 DAYS

Zanzibar Island Holidays

East Africa Zanzibar

'; $4250 USD

$5050 USD

per person sharing per tour

If you’re thinking of visiting Zanzibar, it’s good to know that April tends to have heavier rainfall than March, so it might not be the best time for your adventure. However, if you do decide to go, getting a little familiar with the local culture can really enhance your experience!

Zanzibar is a beautiful melting pot of Christianity and Islam, and when you’re exploring Stone Town, it’s great to be mindful of the area’s more conservative atmosphere. You can definitely wear regular swimwear at the beach and in beach hotels, just remember that nudity is a no-go, especially in the Muslim areas.

While English is widely spoken, especially by those who work with tourists, some locals may not be fluent, so brushing up on a few KiSwahili phrases can be really helpful. There are so many things to do in Zanzibar, from swimming and diving in the stunning waters to discovering the rich history of the island.

Weather in April

The long rains are much more prominent and fierce in April, although they don’t last long. Even though the region is wet around this time of year, temperatures usually reach a high of 30 degrees.

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

House of Wonders

The House of Wonders is a fascinating place with a great story! It earned its name because it was one of the first buildings in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator. This historic gem showcases beautiful Swahili architecture, with its intricate carvings and towering structures making it truly special. It’s a wonderful spot to explore and appreciate the rich history of the region!

Activities to do in April

• Spa treatments
• Visit historical sites

4 DAYS

East Africa Beach Extension Zuri

Zanzibar

'; $1350 USD

$1890 USD

per person sharing per tour

7 DAYS

Pemba Holidays at Fundu Lagoon

Zanzibar

'; $2290 USD

$3500 USD

per person sharing per tour

6 DAYS

Zanzibar Island Holidays

East Africa Zanzibar

'; $4250 USD

$5050 USD

per person sharing per tour

May brings the final bursts of long and heavy rains, so if you’re planning a visit, it’s a great idea to be ready for those wet conditions and pack accordingly!

One of the highlights of your trip, no matter when you visit, is the enchanting spice plantations. You’ll be surrounded by a delightful mix of scents that are unique to Zanzibar – it’s like a feast for your senses!

Also, keep in mind that while English is spoken, it’s not as common everywhere. Learning a few phrases in KiSwahili can really enhance your experience and help you connect with the locals. Here are some handy ones to get you started:

•  Jambo – Hello
• Karibu – You’re welcome
• Sante – Thank you

Weather in May

May is much like April in terms of long and heavy rains. Although the region is primarily wet, temperatures are often hot.

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

The Arab Fort

The Arab Fort is one of the oldest buildings in Stone Town, and it’s such a cool historical landmark to visit!

If you’re wandering around Stone Town, make sure to check out the Arab Fort – it’s definitely a highlight!

This fort was built by Omani Arabs back in the 17th century, which just adds to its charm.

When you visit, take some time to explore its fascinating history and all the different ways it has been used over the years.

Activities to do in May

• Spa treatments
• Yoga classes

If you’re thinking about visiting Zanzibar, June is the perfect time to go! The rainy season is over, leaving behind gorgeous beaches that are just calling for some relaxation and fun in the sun.

One of the highlights during this time is the beautiful Jozani Forest. It makes a great location for a photographic safari and the chance to spot the rare red colobus monkey, along with a variety of butterflies and bird species.

The forest features a lovely boardwalk that winds through the trees, offering amazing views of the mangroves and a vibrant display of flowers.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of trails to explore, so you can choose the ones that suit your fitness level.

Weather in June

The time to have fun in the sun has finally arrived, and Zanzibar can be explored to your heart’s content. Temperatures generally reach a high of 29 degrees, meaning you enjoy long, sunny and relaxing days on the beach.

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

Pemba Island

Pemba Island is for the explorer who loves watersports and for the person looking for a peaceful vacation. It has a little bit of everything for everyone, especially when it comes to children in terms of seeing fish or whales!

If it’s something you’d like to do, there is an option to go on a traditional boat here.

Activities to do in June

• Windsurfing
• Diving
• Swimming
• Forest strolls

4 DAYS

East Africa Beach Extension Zuri

Zanzibar

'; $1350 USD

$1890 USD

per person sharing per tour

7 DAYS

Pemba Holidays at Fundu Lagoon

Zanzibar

'; $2290 USD

$3500 USD

per person sharing per tour

6 DAYS

Zanzibar Island Holidays

East Africa Zanzibar

'; $4250 USD

$5050 USD

per person sharing per tour

In July, the winds start to pick up a bit, giving the beaches a lovely breeze! While that might make lounging less comfy, it’s perfect for enjoying exciting wind watersports.

On the other hand, you can add sightseeing to your agenda, and Stone Town is a hotspot destination in Zanzibar. Here, you can learn about the historical significance of architecture, such as the House of Wonders and the Arab Fort.

If you love food, you’ll definitely want to check out the spice plantation and see some unique plants in Zanzibar as well as learn interesting facts about it! It’s a great opportunity to see some of the spices that are commonly used around here, and who knows—you might even want to try them in your own cooking at home!

Get up close with the plants and learn more about the delicious flavours that make local dishes so special.

Weather in July

The weather in July is typically great and mirrors that of June. The only difference this time around is that it is much more windy. However, this isn’t a bad thing as it allows winding watersports.

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

Kendwa Beach

Kendwa Beach is the perfect spot for everyone! If you love adventure or just want to kick back and relax on the beach, this place has it all. You can soak in the peaceful vibes while still enjoying some fun nightlife. It’s a great escape from the busy city life!

Activities to do in July

• Swimming

4 DAYS

East Africa Beach Extension Zuri

Zanzibar

'; $1350 USD

$1890 USD

per person sharing per tour

7 DAYS

Pemba Holidays at Fundu Lagoon

Zanzibar

'; $2290 USD

$3500 USD

per person sharing per tour

6 DAYS

Zanzibar Island Holidays

East Africa Zanzibar

'; $4250 USD

$5050 USD

per person sharing per tour

August is one of the final months of cooler weather, making it ideal for beach outings. By this time of year, the winds have started to calm down.

Long days at the beach are back, and if you’re interested in observing small wildlife, the Jozani Forest offers some unique species to explore.

In this forest, you can find the red colobus monkey, known for its striking red fur and playful behaviour, bush pigs and around 40 different bird species.

Remember, when spending time at the beach, keep hydrated and protect your skin with SPF.

With the calmer weather, take advantage of activities like diving, surfing, and even spa treatments.

Weather in August

Beginning in August, the weather becomes quite pleasant—it’s not too hot or humid, making it a great time to enjoy the outdoors!

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

Jozani Forest

If you want to explore Zanzibar’s natural beauty, Jozani Forest is the perfect place to do just that! This enchanting forest is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to encounter a variety of fascinating creatures.

As you wander through the lush greenery, look for colourful birds, fluttering butterflies, and playful primates like the Syke’s Monkey and blue monkeys. But the show’s real star is the charming Red Colobus Monkey, which you can only find here in Jozani Forest. It’s a magical experience that highlights the unique biodiversity of this beautiful island!

Activities to do in August

• Swimming
• Diving
• Windsurfing

Beach conditions in September are excellent. The seas are calm at this time of year, making it a fantastic opportunity for diving.

During the day, you can expect sunny skies and clear weather, with temperatures ranging from 21 to 30 degrees Celsius.

Windsurfing enthusiasts can take advantage of the gentle breezes, while swimming conditions remain inviting for those looking to cool off. The beach is also perfect for strolls, allowing visitors to take in the beautiful coastal scenery and enjoy the soothing sound of the waves.

If you’re interested in seeing any animals during your vacation, Stone Town has a few unique animals you can see. They are often most interesting to see in the morning, as they are more active this time around.

Weather in September

September is an excellent time to visit Zanzibar. The weather is usually pleasant, with clear skies and temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius.

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

Jozani Forest

If you prefer spending time in forestry and seeing wildlife, Jozani Forest is one of the incredible places to visit in Zanzibar.

The region has 40 species of birds to see, so pack your binoculars to have a fantastic view of them.

Activities to do in September

• Windsurfing
• Diving
• Swimming
• Surfing

As the dry season wraps up, it’s the perfect time to soak up all the amazing things Zanzibar has to offer! While the short rains usually start in November, you still have plenty of sunny days to enjoy the warm and dry weather.

This is such a great chance for windsurfing, swimming, and diving before the rainy season rolls in!

If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar, make sure to check out Pemba Island! It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy those last sunny moments.

And don’t forget to visit Pemba Fort and Old Kilwa while you’re there—they’re definitely must-see gems.

All that’s left now is packing and preparing for a memorable holiday in Zanzibar.

Weather in October

October is a hot month and the perfect time to explore and laze around on the beach. While there are many activities and things to see, you can still make your holiday your own by doing things in your leisure time.

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

Pemba Island

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, Pemba Island is the place to be! You’ll be captivated by the vibrant fish, majestic whales, and sleek sharks that make this underwater paradise so special.

Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, visiting this part of Zanzibar has something for everyone. It’s all about what you’re feeling!

Activities to do in October

• Diving
• Windsurfing
• Swimming

The wet season officially arrives in November, and some activities such as diving, swimming, and windsurfing aren’t available. However, there are other activities, such as sightseeing and even spa treatments.

Rain is highly likely, but temperatures are generally still hot, with an average of 31 degrees Celsius.

If you’re planning a visit to Zanzibar, you’re in for a treat! Not only can you spot some amazing wildlife, but you’ll also find the Aldabra Giant Tortoise, which usually calls Seychelles home.

You can see the incredible Aldabra Giant Tortoise all year round, but the best times to see them in action are typically in the morning or afternoon when they’re most lively.

Weather in November

The short rains begin in November, and temperatures are often hot and humid. Showers of rain are generally short-lived and give you enough time to go from one stop to another.

Highlight Place to Visit in Zanzibar

Stone Town

Stone Town has historic architecture and towering houses with courtyards and wooden doors.

Look forward to experiencing various cultures and cuisines in this enchanting small town and exploring a mix of African, Arab, Indian, and European cultures.

Activities to do in November

• Spa treatments
• Yoga classes

December in Zanzibar is quite similar to November, and although activities like diving and windsurfing might not be on the agenda, there’s still plenty to discover! You can explore various parts of the island, meet the amazing Aldabra Giant Tortoise, and spot some of the 400 incredible bird species that call this region home.

When visiting local areas, it’s a good idea to remember that the community tends to be more conservative. Wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees will help you feel comfortable and show respect for the local culture.

Within the proximity of your hotel or accommodation, you’re free to wear your beachwear and any clothing you might want to wear on your vacation. Other than that, have fun to your heart’s content.

The best part about visiting? It’s such a fantastic spot for a fun family holiday in Zanzibar!

Weather in December

December consists of brief showers, which often take place in the afternoons. Other than that, the weather is generally hot, and rain is often a cooling factor.

Highlight Place to Visit

The Arab Fort

The Arab Fort is a must-visit if you’re exploring Stone Town. Built in the 17th century, it is one of the oldest buildings in Zanzibar. You’ll learn more about the history associated with this building and a little more about Zanzibar itself.

Activities to do in December

• Yoga classes
• Spa treatments