Climate Overview
The climate in Zanzibar is hot. The average annual temperature is 27°C and approximately 1038mm of precipitation falls per year. April is the wettest month, receiving around 293mm of rainfall. Zanzibar sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year.
Temperature
Zanzibar has relatively stable temperatures year-round, staying within a 8°C range. The warmest month is March, when average highs reach 31°C and the mean temperature sits around 28°C. August is the coolest month, with minimum temperatures around 23°C and an average of 25°C. Daily temperature variation is modest, with an average difference of 4°C between highs and lows.
Precipitation
Zanzibar is a moderately rainy area, receiving approximately 1038mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 87mm per month. The wettest month is April, averaging 293mm of rainfall. May and March also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is September, with just 21mm. That's 271mm less than April, the wettest month. Rainfall is heavily concentrated in certain months, creating a distinct wet and dry season. Visitors should plan around these patterns, as the difference between peak and low months is dramatic.
Wind
Zanzibar is mildly breezy, with an average annual wind speed of 19km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is July, averaging 21km/h, noticeable enough to affect lighter outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in November, with average winds dropping to 16km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. Wind conditions are fairly consistent throughout the year, varying by only 5km/h between the calmest and windiest months.
Seasons
90 days until Winter
It is currently autumn in Zanzibar, which began on March 20, 2026. Zanzibar sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced — temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in March at around 31°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in August near 23°C. Winter is next, beginning on June 21, 2026 — 90 days from now.
Spring
Temperatures range from 23 to 30°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 202mm for the season, averaging 67mm per month. Winds are moderate at around 18km/h. Light layers work well as temperatures warm through the season — a great time to be outdoors.
Summer
Temperatures range from 26 to 31°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 195mm for the season, averaging 65mm per month. Winds are moderate at around 19km/h. Light, breathable clothing is ideal — perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 25 to 31°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 564mm across the season with a monthly average of 188mm. Winds are moderate at around 18km/h. A waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear are recommended as rain becomes more frequent.
Winter
Temperatures range from 23 to 28°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 78mm over the season and a monthly average of 26mm. Winds are moderate at around 20km/h. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient, though cooler evenings may call for an extra layer.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for Zanzibar based on historical weather data. Min and max temperatures represent typical overnight lows and afternoon highs for each month, shown in degrees Celsius (°C). Precipitation is measured in millimetres (mm) and indicates the average total rainfall per month. Wind speed is the average sustained speed in kilometres per hour (km/h). All values are based on averages from over 10 years of historical weather data. The current month is highlighted for quick reference.
