Ramadan usually falls in the month of March and lasts for one month. This is when quite a lot of restaurants and bars close their doors on the island. You will find service as normal in the big hotel resorts but it’s probably a good idea to avoid this time of year if you would like to properly experience Zanzibar. But when is the best time to visit Zanzibar then?
Let’s begin with the best time for activities and then take a quick look at the best time to visit Zanzibar in general…
The Best Time for Diving, Surfing and Watersports
The ideal months for kite surfing in Zanzibar are January, February, June, July, and August, as the famous trade winds create perfect conditions during these times. The Kusi winds blow from the south between June and September, while the Kaskazi winds arrive from the north between December and March.
Scuba diving in Zanzibar is possible year-round, but the best visibility, especially in the island’s northern waters, occurs between March and May when the winds subside, and the sea becomes calm, offering up to 30 meters of visibility. October and November are also favorable for diving, just after the Kusi winds cease and before the Kaskazi winds begin. However, December to February and June to September are the least favorable for diving, as the winds make the sea choppy.
For those interested in spotting whale sharks, the best time to visit is from October to February, with November and December being particularly ideal. Mafia Island is the top location for whale shark sightings.
The Best Time to Visit Zanzibar in General
In my opinion, the best time to visit Zanzibar is from June to October, when the weather is cooler (yet still pleasantly warm) and dry, with minimal rainfall. June to August are typically the cooler months, while temperatures begin to rise in September and October. January and February are also great months to visit, offering hot and dry conditions, although it tends to be a bit hotter and more humid.
The long rains occur from March to May, with most of the rainfall happening in April. During this period, the weather is hot and humid, and you can expect some heavy downpours, though these often create spectacular cloud formations. November and December bring short rains. While these rains are brief and don’t last long, it does get very humid, so you should be prepared to spend some time indoors.
I’ve visited Zanzibar in November many times, and the weather can sometimes feel oppressive. It can be hot, muggy, and somewhat grey, with the beaches losing some of their usual vibrancy under the overcast skies. However, November is also part of the low season, so you can often find great deals on hotels, and it doesn’t always rain.
Regardless of when you visit, it’s essential to choose a travel insurance company for Africa that covers your trip and specific circumstances. And if you’re still deciding on a safari, be sure to check out my favorite overland tour, which includes Zanzibar: Serengeti and Zanzibar Tour.
