Zanzibar is warm all year, so there's no truly bad time to go. What changes through the year is the rain, the crowds and the price of a room. Here's how the seasons work so you can pick the right time for your trip.

Zanzibar's Seasons at a Glance

Zanzibar sits just south of the equator, so the year is shaped by two dry seasons and two rainy seasons rather than summer and winter:

June to October — long dry season. Sunny, less humid and slightly cooler. This is the most popular time to visit.
November — short rains. Brief showers, usually in the afternoon, with plenty of sunshine in between.
December to February — short dry season. Hot and humid, with calm seas. Christmas and New Year are very busy.
March to May — long rains. The wettest months, with heavy downpours on many days. It's the quietest time of year.

The Best Overall Time: June to October

For most travelers, the long dry season is the easiest time to visit. Days are reliably sunny, evenings are comfortable, and it's ideal for walking around Stone Town, spice tours and boat trips. Because it's also the most popular season, especially July and August, it pays to book your room early.

Hot and Dry: December to February

The second dry season brings the hottest weather of the year and calm, clear water that's good for swimming, snorkeling and dhow trips. The festive period from mid-December to early January is the busiest time on the island, so reserve well ahead if you're travelling then.

Travelling in the Rainy Seasons

The rains shouldn't rule out a trip. November's short rains rarely last long, and you'll often have sunny mornings. The long rains from March to May are heavier, and some smaller businesses close for part of this period, but it's also when the island is at its quietest and greenest. If you don't mind a few wet afternoons, it can be a relaxed and good-value time to visit.

Festivals and Ramadan

Zanzibar's calendar includes music, film and cultural events, with the Sauti za Busara music festival usually held in February and the Zanzibar International Film Festival usually in mid-year. Check this year's dates before you book.

Zanzibar is a mainly Muslim island, and the dates of Ramadan move earlier by around 11 days each year. During Ramadan, some restaurants in Stone Town close during daylight hours and the pace of life slows. Visitors are welcome, but it's polite to dress modestly and avoid eating or drinking in the street during the day.

Planning Your Stay

Book early for July, August and the Christmas and New Year period.
Pack light clothing, sun protection and a light rain jacket if you're travelling between March and May or in November.
Bring clothing that covers shoulders and knees for visiting Stone Town and local villages.

Whatever the season, Ngalawa Hotel & Resort in Bububu is a comfortable base, with a pool, an on-site restaurant and easy access to Stone Town. Check availability for your dates or message us on WhatsApp at +255 773 404 430.

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