ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF
ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF

What are you looking for?

ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF
ZAR
USD
EUR
GBP
CAD
AUD
CHF
Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.


Alternatively, we recommend...

travel-form-icon

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

ENQUIRE TODAY
Email us
(optional)

Zanzibar in January

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

View Photos

Zanzibar in January

January marks the start of the short dry season in Zanzibar, a period of relatively hot, humid weather that builds gradually from late December and runs through to the beginning of March.

Prison Island, Zanzibar
Prison Island, Zanzibar

Average temperatures in Zanzibar remain pretty constant throughout the year, but January is one of the hotter months, with daytime highs regularly up to 35°C (95°F). Although generally sunny, there may still be the occasional afternoon thunderstorm in Zanzibar.

Fishermen and their dhow, Kiwengwa Beach, Zanzibar
Fishermen and their dhow, Kiwengwa Beach, Zanzibar

These clear quickly, however, and won’t disrupt you too much when enjoying a beach holiday in Zanzibar. 

Tropical exotic beach Sunny morning in Zanzibar on Jambiani white sands

With sea temperatures of up to 30°C (86°F), they’re unlikely to put you off swimming either but expect a few windy days as the north-eastern ‘kaskazi’ wind blows in Zanzibar in January. 

Mafia Island, Zanzibar
Mafia Island, Zanzibar

The north-eastern kaskazi is a major factor in choosing where in Zanzibar to holiday in January. Beaches along Zanzibar’s north and east coasts bear the brunt of the wind – a steady, stiff breeze usually between 20 and 30 km/h (11-17 knots). 

Tropical beach on Pemba Island, Zanzibar.
Tropical beach on Pemba Island, Zanzibar.

Wind and waves can also wash seaweed onto the eastern beaches, although many resorts make a point of clearing the bathing areas in front of their properties. If you’re a kite surfer, all this is great, of course, and the stable, moderate winds are also ideal for beginners. 

Zanzibar kitesurfers.
Zanzibar kitesurfers.

Paje very popular at this time of year, as is Kiwengwa, although it’s a bit more low-key. If you’re looking for something more sheltered, try Kendwa or Ras Kizimkazi. Day trips to the west coast atolls of Chumbe and Prison Island are also ideal at this time of year.

Zanzibar beach.
Zanzibar beach.

January is an ideal time to visit Zanzibar for a beach holiday with friends or family. 

Travel Tips
  • January is Zanzibar’s mango season, and the markets are full of fresh, ripe fruit. It also marks the end of the clove harvest in Pemba, with fragrant piles of the islands’ main export drying in the sun. January is prime time for swimming with whale sharks off Mafia Island, and the visibility is at its best over the coral gardens of Chole Bay.
  • Kitesurfing aside, January’s only real disadvantage is the kaskazi wind, which, although rarely so strong as to be unpleasant, can blow seaweed onto the eastern beaches and erode the sand along the northeastern coast. The seas may also be too rough for some off-shore dive sites, but there are always other options along the more sheltered west.

How it Works

2

Contact us or fill out an enquiry form and one of our travel experts will help you tailor make your perfect safari

3

Enjoy an authentic African experience, with peace of mind

Travel with Confidence

With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you choose the perfect African safari for your adventure.
24/7 Support
Flexible
Authentic
Personalized

Why travel with us?

Recent reviews from travellers who planned and booked their Africa trips with Discover Africa Safaris
Adelle Bell is a true professional!
Susan is amazing! she LISTENED to provide us with the experience we...

Botswana & Victoria Falls Safari Review

Xenia, United States
11 Nov 2022
Solo Trip

Solo Zanzibar Review

Zofia, United Kingdom
04 Aug 2022
As a solo traveller it was fantastic to have everything organised for...

Maasai Mara Solo Safari Review

Bronwyn Hughes Photography, Australia
17 Jul 2022
Expert and provide excellent service.

Tanzanian Adventure Safari Review

Agnes, Hungary
23 Feb 2020
First class experience!

Zambia,Zimbabwe & Mozambique Holiday Review

Colin Duncan, United Kingdom
03 Jan 2018

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari?

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

HELP ME PLAN MY TRIP
Copyright © Discover Africa Safaris | Zanzibar in January | Last Updated: 21 Jun 2023