Best Time to Visit Zanzibar: Weather, Festivals & More

Zanzibar is a year-round tropical paradise—but depending on your interests, budget, and travel goals, certain months may be better than others. Whether you’re looking for perfect beach weather, cultural experiences, or fewer crowds, this guide breaks down the best times to visit Zanzibar with insider tips from the Sasatrip team.

Let’s help you plan your perfect island escape.

The Seasons at a Glance

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January – March

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  • Hot and sunny with calm seas.

  • Excellent for diving and snorkeling.

  • Best for: Honeymooners, sun-seekers, and marine lovers.

January – March

  • Hot and sunny with calm seas.

  • Excellent for diving and snorkeling.

  • Best for: Honeymooners, sun-seekers, and marine lovers.

April – May

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  • Long rainy season; many lodges close.

  • Humid with heavy but beautiful rains.

  • Best for: Budget travelers and solitude seekers (some great deals!).

April – May

  • Long rainy season; many lodges close.

  • Humid with heavy but beautiful rains.

  • Best for: Budget travelers and solitude seekers (some great deals!).

The Seasons at a Glance Zanzibar has a warm, tropical climate year-round, with two main dry seasons and two rainy seasons.

  • Dry Season (June to October): Best overall weather for beaches and activities.

  • Short Rains (November to mid-December): Light, quick showers with sunny breaks.

  • Hot & Dry (mid-December to March): Great for diving, snorkeling, and beach holidays.

  • Long Rains (April to May): Heavier rainfall—ideal for budget travelers or those seeking peace.

November – mid-December

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  • Short rains—usually short, warm showers in the afternoon.

  • Fewer crowds, lower prices.

  • Best for: Travelers seeking value without sacrificing sunshine.

November – mid-December

  • Short rains—usually short, warm showers in the afternoon.

  • Fewer crowds, lower prices.

  • Best for: Travelers seeking value without sacrificing sunshine.

June – October

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  • Peak dry season; clear skies, less humidity.

  • Ideal for combining with a safari.

  • Best for: First-time visitors, families, and multi-destination travelers.

June – October

  • Peak dry season; clear skies, less humidity.

  • Ideal for combining with a safari.

  • Best for: First-time visitors, families, and multi-destination travelers.

Zanzibar Festivals & Events

Zanzibar isn’t just about beaches—it’s a cultural hotspot too. Time your trip with a local festival to make your visit even more memorable.

 Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) – July

  • East Africa’s biggest film, music, and cultural festival held in Stone Town.

 Sauti za Busara – February

  • A lively African music festival featuring artists from across the continent.

 Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha – Dates vary

  • Celebrated with communal prayers, feasts, and local gatherings.

 Mwaka Kogwa Festival – Late July

  • Unique Shirazi New Year celebration in Makunduchi village with rituals and mock fights.

Sasatrip Tip: Book accommodations early if traveling during festivals—they fill up quickly!

A vibrant tropical beach scene with people, palms, and turquoise waters from above.
Relaxing beach scene with wooden loungers under a thatch sunshade in Zanzibar.

Best Time for Beach Activities

  • Snorkeling & Diving: March and October (clearest water & calmest seas)

  • Kitesurfing: June to September & December to February (especially in Paje)

  • Sunset Dhow Cruises: Year-round, but especially beautiful from July to November

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