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Zanzibar in May

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

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.

Average Weather in May

Temperature Celsius Fahrenheit Rainfall
Min 23℃73℉125 mm
Max 29℃84℉305 mm

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

Zanzibar Tours

$4250 USD

$5050 USD

per person sharing

$1350 USD

$1890 USD

per person sharing

$4480.00 USD

$5380.00 USD

per person sharing

$2290 USD

$3500 USD

per person sharing

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What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us

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Safari Bookings review

"A Truly Seamless African Adventure Adelle from Discover Africa was exceptional from beginning to end. She was knowledgeable, responsive and always prompt. She created an excellent itinerary with a perfect schedule, wonderful lodges and seamlessly coordin..."

Angela Kenedy, United States•15 Sep 2026•

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Trustpilot review

"My husband and I started planning our Safari in Sept to go in May. Vihann at Discover Africa was wonderful!! He setup a video call on our timeline to ask what we wanted and actually listened. He came up with a plan that we agreed to and the rest was easy. A..."

April Wilson, United States•16 Jun 2026•

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Google review

"This is the second safari holiday we have used Dev to organise. We had the privilege of visiting three beautiful lodges on this trip, Devs recommendations in three different locations, Sabi Sands, Timbavati, and Makalali, which entailed a lot of organising ..."

Vivienne Lister, Australia•21 May 2026•

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Trustpilot review

"All advising given by Discover Africa (in our case, by Justin Van Wyk) was really helpful and the programe they have outlined was great. Everything went really smooth and professional."

Luis Cortez, Portugal•15 Apr 2026•

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"I had a great trip organised by Chrizaan. Everything went very smoothly including all of the pickups, flights and accommodation. I visited Namibia and loved seeing the dunes, springboks and oryx. I also visited the Okavango Delta and saw so many anim..."

Leanne Harrison, South Africa•03 Feb 2026•

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"We had a great trip in Namibia. In 11 days we did a roundtrip, which was organised through online meetings. Every thing went on as agreed on and ver smoothly. We had a very good guide/driver, who explained us a lot about the country, politics, history and m..."

Peter Esslinger, Switzerland•30 Nov 2025•

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