The best time to visit Zanzibar, by month

Zanzibar has two rainy seasons and two dry ones, and the difference between a good week and a washed-out one is often a fortnight either side.

June to October — the reliable window

Dry, breezy, and cooler at night. This is when we send most clients. It overlaps with the Nigerian school holidays in July and August, which is convenient, and it is also when prices peak, which is not.

December to February — hot and clear

Short, sharp rains in November clear out and leave a hot, still season. Good for diving: visibility is at its best. Christmas and New Year book out months ahead at the east coast resorts.

March to May — the long rains

Genuine downpours, often for hours. Some of the smaller resorts close entirely. If you are price-driven and flexible, early March and late May sit at the edges of the season and can be excellent value.

November — the short rains

Brief afternoon showers rather than all-day rain. Underrated, and materially cheaper than December.

Our Zanzibar Beach Escape departs across October, November and January for exactly these reasons.