Zanzibar

Jun–Oct (cool, dry): Best overall — sunny days, lower humidity, excellent diving/snorkel visibility and strong trade winds for kitesurfing. Peak tourist season; prices and crowds are highest. Major events: Zanzibar International Film Festival and Mwaka Kogwa (late July). Nov–Dec (short rains/shoulder): Warm and humid with brief showers. Fewer tourists and better deals; good diving windows between showers. Pleasant for beach time without peak crowds. Jan–Feb (hot, dry): Hot and calm seas, great for snorkeling and diving; February hosts music festivals like Sauti za Busara (dates vary). Shoulder/early peak — lively but less crowded than mid-year. Mar–May (long rains): Hottest, wettest months; many lodges offer discounts and some close. Travel can be disrupted, but this is cheapest and verdant for cultural visits and spice tours.