Zanzibar climate and temperatures

The climate of Zanzibar is a tropical monsoon climate (Köppen: Am), characterized by a very wet season and a short dry period. Monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 30°C in May to a maximum of 34°C in February. The average annual temperature is around 32°C.
During the colder months, nighttime temperatures average around 22°C, while in the warmer months they average about 26°C.
Popular destinations in Zanzibar
- Basra
- Chanjani
- Chutama
- Fungoma
- Jambiani
- Kendwa
- Kiwengwa
- Kizimkazi
- Kombeni
- Mangapwani
- Marumbi
- Matemwe
Climate table of Zanzibar
The climate table below gives you a clear overview of the climate in Zanzibar by month, from average temperatures and rainfall to UV levels. This makes it easy to see when the weather best suits your travel plans.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp. max (°C) | 14 | 16 | 17 | 19 | 23 | 27 | 30 | 30 | 27 | 23 | 18 | 16 |
| Temp. min (°C) | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 15 | 19 | 22 | 22 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 7 |
| Rainfall | ||||||||||||
| Rainfall (mm) | 46 | 34 | 46 | 64 | 43 | 23 | 22 | 75 | 77 | 84 | 61 | 25 |
| UV index | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
Best time to visit Zanzibar
The best time to visit Zanzibar is June, July en August. During this period, temperatures are usually pleasant to warm and there is relatively little rainfall. Between June and August, average high temperatures range roughly from 30°C to 30°C, while rainfall remains limited. The warmest month is February, with an average daytime temperature of around 34°C. The driest month is June, with about 45 mm of rainfall, while April is usually the wettest month of the year, with approximately 427 mm. Snow plays virtually no role in the climate here.
Average temperature per month
This chart shows the average daytime (maximum) and nighttime (minimum) temperatures per month in Zanzibar. The figures are based on climate data from recent years and are presented in degrees Celsius, so you can clearly see the temperature range for each month.
Average rainfall per month
This chart shows the average monthly rainfall in Zanzibar. The figures are based on long-term climate data and are displayed in millimeters, so you can immediately see which months are drier or wetter.
Average UV index per month
This chart shows the average monthly sun intensity in Zanzibar. The UV index ranges from 0 (no UV radiation) to 11+ (extreme). A higher UV index means you can burn more quickly, making proper sun protection increasingly important.
Average annual temperature
This chart shows the average annual temperature in Zanzibar based on data from the past ten years. It allows you to see at a glance how the climate is evolving and whether there are clear warming trends.
Average annual rainfall
This chart shows the average annual rainfall in Zanzibar over the past ten years. It allows you to see at a glance how much rain falls each year and whether there are clear fluctuations between the years.
Weather experiences in Zanzibar
The weather in Zanzibar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8 visitors. Have you been to Zanzibar? Share your experience with the weather to help other visitors plan their trip.
Average weather per month
Click on a month below and discover what the weather in Zanzibar is typically like. For each period, you can instantly see the average temperature, rainfall, wind, and UV index. Thanks to years of historical weather data, you’ll know exactly what to expect during your trip.