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! 🌴☀️
