The best time to visit Zanzibar depends on what you’re looking for!
For sunny beaches and clear skies, plan your trip between June – October or January – February. If you’re after cheaper hotels and flights, consider the low season (March – May) or shoulder season (November).
This guide covers everything you need to know about when to visit Zanzibar—weather, costs, and activities—so you can plan the perfect trip!
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar Based on Weather
Zanzibar has a tropical climate, meaning warm temperatures all year. However, the seasons affect travel experiences, so knowing when to go can make or break your trip.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar for Good Weather
The best time to visit Zanzibar is between June to October. During this time, you’d have clearer skies, low humidity and little to no rain. June to October offer the most comfortable and perfect time to enjoy Zanzibar’s numerous beaches, go snorkeling or any other outdoor activities you have planned out. However, there’s a catch.
Because this is basically the best time to visit Zanzibar, it’s also means tourism is at its peak. You’d find most resorts are filled and the prices of almost every doubles.
Another great time to visit is January to February, which is Zanzibar’s short dry season. These months are the hottest, with plenty of sunshine and minimal rain—perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. While the humidity can be high, the stunning blue skies and warm waters make up for it.
Worst Time to Visit Zanzibar (Rainy Season)
The worst time to visit Zanzibar is during the long rainy season from March to May. Heavy rains, high humidity, and unpredictable storms make beach activities less enjoyable. Many resorts and tour operators shut down, but if you don’t mind the rain, you can find incredible travel deals during this period.
November and December is also another rainy season in Zanzibar, but the rainfall is less heavy, frequent but not heavy. So, the beaches are still beautiful and the crowd is a bit lesser than the peak period. While pricing of most resorts won’t go down siginficantly, if you’re a budget traveler who wants a decent deal, then this would be the best time to consider visiting.
Now, let’s talk about the cheapest time to visit Zanzibar!
Cheapest Time to Visit Zanzibar
The best time to go to Zanzibar on a tight budget is not the same as going for the weather; the latter is only an excuse for going over budget. For a vacation that balances beautiful weather with affordability, it is preferable to go in March to May or November, which is the off-peak months. Travelers who wish to save money while still taking in the island’s beauty will find that these months provide the best deals on hotels, airfare, and tours.
Here is a breakdown:
Low Season (March – May): Best for Deep Discounts
The long rainy season from March to May is the absolute cheapest time to visit Zanzibar. Since this is the least popular time for tourists, airlines and hotels slash their prices to attract visitors. You can save up to 50% or more on both luxury resorts and low-cost accommodations. The only downside is that you need to be ready for the heavy rainfall. But if you’re okay with the occasional rainfall, then March to May is the best time.
Shoulder Season (November): Affordable with Good Weather
November is another affordable time to visit Zanzibar. You get a balance of decent weather and lower prices. However, they might not be as low as March to May, but you could find good deals because this period falls into Zanzibar short rain season with lesser rainfall than during the low season. Because hotels and airlines lower their prices, it’s a great time to go if you want to travel on a tight budget without experiencing a lot of rain. Additionally, there are less tourists, making the island experience more tranquil.
How to Save Money No Matter When You Visit
To find the cheapest flights to Zanzibar, book at least two to three months in advance and consider flying into Dar es Salaam, then taking a ferry to the island. Look for last-minute offers during the rainy seasons if your dates are flexible, since hotels frequently reduce their rates even further to fill available rooms.
Next, let’s explore the best time to visit Zanzibar for specific activities!
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar for Popular Activities
Beyond its breathtaking beaches, Zanzibar is a great place to visit for diving, snorkeling, wildlife observation, and also home to some historical sites. So, when you choose to visit can also be based on what you plan on doing:
Ideal Time for Beach Lovers
The best times to visit Zanzibar are during the dry seasons, which run from June to October and January to February, if you’re there for the white sand beaches and turquoise waters. These months are ideal for swimming, lounging on the beach, and sunbathing because of the clear skies, moderate temperatures, and placid waters.
Best Time for Snorkeling & Diving
Zanzibar is a great destination for snorkeling and diving. For the clearest waters, plan your trip between July and December or January to March. But if you want to see whale sharks, visit between October and December when they pass through the area.
Best Time for Safari & Wildlife Experiences
If you want to combine a safari with a trip to Zanzibar, you should go between June and October, which is the dry season. In well-known parks like Seregenti, the majority of animals congregate near water sources, which makes it easier to see. It’s also the best time for dolphin tours although that is available all year-round.
Best Time for Cultural Experiences & Festivals
If you’re more into culture travels, then you probably should time your visit with one of the major festivals like the Zanzibar International Film Festival in July featuring art from across Africa. The Mwaka Kogwa Festival in late July is a unique Swahili celebration with traditional rituals, music, and feasting. If you’re visiting during Ramadan (dates vary each year), expect a quieter atmosphere as many local businesses close during fasting hours, though this can be a unique cultural experience for travelers.
Which Season is Best for You?
- Want the best weather & don’t mind crowds? Visit during June – October or December – February.
- Looking for the cheapest time to visit Zanzibar? Go during the rainy season (March – May).
- Prefer fewer crowds but decent weather? Travel in November or early December for a mix of savings and sunshine.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar – Quick Guide
| Factor | Best Months | Worst Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weather | June – October, January – February | March – May (heavy rains) | Dry season offers the best beach weather. |
| Cheapest Time | March – May (low season) | December – February (peak season) | Rainy season = lowest prices, but some hotels close. |
| Beach Activities | June – October, January – February | March – May | Clear skies, calm seas for sunbathing & swimming. |
| Snorkeling & Diving | July – September, January – March | March – May | Best underwater visibility; whale sharks in Oct – Dec. |
| Safari & Wildlife | June – October (dry season) | March – May (wet season) | Best for combining Zanzibar with a Tanzania safari. |
| Cultural Festivals | February (Sauti za Busara), July (ZIFF, Mwaka Kogwa) | – | Best for experiencing local culture & music. |
| Crowds | June – October, December – February | March – May | Peak season = more tourists; low season = quieter. |
Need Help Planning Your Trip?
Choosing the best time to visit is only the first step; what about lodging, flights, activities, and must-see locations? We can help with that! At Tour Vertex, we design unique travel plans based on your choices, timetable, and budget. We’ll create the ideal itinerary for you, whether your goal is an adventure-filled vacation, a romantic beach retreat, or a cultural immersion.
Let’s take away the burden of planning a perfect trip for your next travel. Start Planning with us!
Final Thoughts
No matter when you visit, Zanzibar offers breathtaking beaches, rich history, and unforgettable adventures. Planning your trip at the right time ensures you get the best experience while staying within your budget.
