Year-Round Warm, But Not All Months Are Equal

Temperatures stay 25–32 °C every single month. What changes is rain, crowds, water clarity, and price.

December – February

Hot, dry, sunny, and very busy

Perfect beach weather, crystal-clear water, festive New Year vibe

Most expensive and most crowded (especially Zanzibar)

Great for: classic sun-and-sand holidays

March – May (Long Rains)

Hot with afternoon showers, very quiet

Up to 50 % off hotel rates

Beaches almost empty, lush green scenery

Rain usually short – plenty of sunshine between showers

Best for: budget travellers, photographers, solitude

June

Cooler, dry, pleasantly quiet

Excellent visibility for diving and snorkelling

Shoulder-season pricing

Best “secret” month for Zanzibar and Pemba

July – August

Cool, dry, busy again

Peak European summer holidays

Ideal water conditions, vibrant atmosphere

Book Zanzibar hotels 9–12 months ahead

September

Warm, dry, still busy but starting to ease

Perfect combination of sunshine and slightly fewer people

Great month for Thanda or Pemba luxury escapes

October – November (Short Rains)

Warm with occasional heavy showers, very quiet

Another big discount period

Whale sharks start arriving around Mafia

Best for: deals + whale shark swimming

Best Time for Your Favourite Activity

• Classic beach weather → December–February or July–August
• Whale shark swimming (Mafia) → November–early March (November = fewer people)
• Best diving & snorkelling visibility → June–September or December–February
• Quietest beaches & biggest discounts → March–May or October–November
• Luxury & total privacy (Thanda, Pemba) → June or September

Rainy Season Reality Check

Showers are usually short and sharp (often in the afternoon or at night). You’ll still get plenty of sunshine, and the islands feel fresh and green. Many travellers deliberately choose April–May or November for half-price luxury resorts and near-empty beaches.

Why Add a Beach Break with SerengetiNexus?

• We know exactly which resorts drop rates when
• Direct flights from Arusha or Serengeti (no wasted days)
• Hand-picked hotels for every budget and vibe

Ready for your perfect piece of Indian Ocean paradise?

Tell us what you love — sun, diving, privacy, or saving money — and we’ll put you on the beach at the ideal time.

Start Planning Your Beach Escape | View Island + Safari Combos | Chat with Us

See you under the palms! 🌴☀️