Is it going to rain?
- Mr Tumbili
- Feb 21
- 2 min read
Okay, Zanzibar lovers, let's talk about the one question that pops up in every single Zanzibar Facebook group, forum, and even whispered in hushed tones on the beach: THE WEATHER.
"How's the weather next week?" "Will it rain in June?" "Is November a bad time to go?" "OMG, should I pack my wellies?" We've all seen these questions (and maybe even asked them ourselves!). And honestly? It's like asking a magic eight ball. Nobody, and I mean nobody, can predict the future weather with 100% accuracy. Not even your friendly neighborhood shaman.
Think about it: even the official weather apps get it wrong sometimes! So, expecting someone in a Facebook group to have a secret weather hotline to Zanzibar is a tad optimistic. There are no weather service employees lurking in those groups, trust me. And if there were, they'd be too busy dodging rogue coconuts to answer weather queries. Checking a reliable weather app like Accuweather is your best bet, even though they are far from perfect either.
And here's another thing: Zanzibar's weather is a fickle beast. Even the "rainy seasons" aren't always consistent. Some years, it pours cats and dogs. Others, it's just a light sprinkle. Plus, the weather can vary wildly from one part of the island to another! 5 minutes of rain each day one place while it rains for 23 hours in another.
I can't tell you how many times I've been stuck in gloomy, rainy Nungwi or Stone Town, only to drive down to the southeast and find glorious sunshine. It's like two different islands!
So, can we say anything about the weather in Zanzibar? Well, yes, based on historical data. It's not a guarantee, but it gives you a general idea. Think of it as a weather horoscope – fun to read, but don't bet your vacation on it.
Here's a rough guide, keeping in mind that this is a very general overview, and microclimates exist all over the island:
(Remember, these are averages and can vary! Nungwi might be cloudy while Jambiani is sunny, even in the same month!)
January - March (Dry Season): Expect hot and sunny days, perfect for beach lounging. Temperatures usually hover around the high 80s Fahrenheit (low 30s Celsius). Minimal rain.
April - May (Long Rains): This is typically the rainiest period. Expect showers, sometimes heavy, but also periods of sunshine. Temperatures remain warm.
June - October (Dry Season): Another dry period, with plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures. This is a popular time to visit.
November - December (Short Rains): Shorter rainy season, with less rain than April-May. You'll likely see some showers, but also plenty of sunshine.
So, there you have it. The Zanzibar weather in a nutshell. Remember, it's a tropical island, so expect some variations.
Pack for sunshine, pack for a little rain, and most importantly, pack your sense of adventure!
Because whatever the weather, Zanzibar is always magical.
Karibu Zanzibar!
