Climate Overview
The climate in Zanzibar is hot. The average annual temperature is 27°C and approximately 1129mm of precipitation falls per year. April is the wettest month, receiving around 323mm 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 1129mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 94mm per month. The wettest month is April, averaging 323mm of rainfall. May and March also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is July, with just 28mm. That's 295mm 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 14km/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 17km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in November, with average winds dropping to 10km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. There is moderate seasonal variation in wind speed, with a 7km/h gap between the calmest and windiest months.
Seasons
8 days until Spring
It is currently winter in Zanzibar, which began on June 21, 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. Spring is next, beginning on September 23, 2026 (8 days from now).
Spring
Temperatures range from 23 to 30°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 214mm for the season, averaging 71mm per month. Winds are generally light, averaging 12km/h. An umbrella or waterproof jacket is advisable as spring showers are frequent.
Summer
Temperatures range from 26 to 31°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 218mm for the season, averaging 73mm per month. Winds are generally light, averaging 14km/h. Light, breathable clothing is ideal. Perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 25 to 31°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 596mm across the season with a monthly average of 199mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 13km/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 102mm over the season and a monthly average of 34mm. Winds are moderate at around 16km/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.
