Zanzibar Weather

Zanzibar’s tropical climate means warm, humid conditions year-round, with the best time to visit falling during the dry months from June to October. The live forecast above shows current conditions for Stone Town or your selected resort area.

What is the weather like in Zanzibar throughout the year?

Zanzibar sits close to the equator, so temperatures stay consistently between 24°C and 32°C. The key seasonal shift comes from rainfall, not temperature.

• Dry season (June–October): Lower humidity, clear skies, and cooling trade winds. This is the peak tourist window. For zanzibar weather january through february, expect hot, dry conditions with minimal rain.
• Short rains (November–December): Brief afternoon showers, but still plenty of sun. Zanzibar weather november and zanzibar weather december are transitional – good for lower crowds if you don’t mind some drizzle.
• Long rains (March–May): Heavier, prolonged downpours and higher humidity. Zanzibar weather october marks the end of the dry season before the short rains begin.
• Zanzibar weather by month: The driest months are July, August and September. The wettest are April and May. For planning, a zanzibar weather forecast 14 days or zanzibar weather forecast 30 days can help confirm your window.

What to pack and what to expect on arrival

Light, breathable clothing is essential. Even in the dry season, humidity can feel high, so cotton fabrics work best.

• Pack a light rain jacket or umbrella if visiting in November, December or any month from March to May.
• Sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent are necessary year-round. The UV index is high even under cloud cover.
• The sea breeze keeps coastal spots like Nungwi and Kendwa cooler than the interior. Inland areas near Jozani Forest can feel more humid.

For a quick overview of conditions back home, our UK weather hub has local updates. If you are travelling from Liverpool or Bristol, check the 10 day weather forecast UK for your departure date.