Zanzibar unfurls like a dream of spice-scented alleys and turquoise sea: narrow, winding streets open onto ornate carved doors, bustling bazaars, and rooftop cafés where saffron and cardamom scent the air.
Zanzibar unfurls like a dream of spice-scented alleys and turquoise sea: narrow, winding streets open onto ornate carved doors, bustling bazaars, and rooftop cafés where saffron and cardamom scent the air.Stone Town’s layered history—Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European—shows in faded palace facades, minarets, and the echo of taarab music drifting from a courtyard.
Explore hotels in ZanzibarWeather
Overcast
Feels like 33°C
Local time: Sat 12:04 PM
Best window
Dry season months
Shoulder
Transition months
Watch for
Wet/monsoon periods
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.
7-day forecast
Sat
29° / 26°
Rain showers
Sun
28° / 27°
Thunderstorm
Mon
29° / 27°
Thunderstorm
Tue
29° / 27°
Thunderstorm
Wed
28° / 27°
Thunderstorm
Thu
29° / 27°
Thunderstorm
Fri
29° / 27°
Thunderstorm with hail
Sign in to unlock exclusive member prices and deals in Zanzibar
Sign in nowSee Zanzibar on the map and explore nearby landmarks.
Handpicked stays for your perfect getaway
Must-see places and experiences