Tanzania · Africa

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar

When to go for the best experience — weather, prices & tips

Month-by-Month Guide to Zanzibar

Jan

Best

Feb

Best

Mar

Shoulder

Apr

May

Shoulder

Jun

Best

Jul

Best

Aug

Best

Sep

Best

Oct

Shoulder

Nov

Dec

Shoulder
Best monthsShoulder seasonOff-season

Recommended Months in Detail

June

Best
Est. daily cost$91/day
Est. flights$821

July

Best
Est. daily cost$91/day
Est. flights$877

August

Best
Est. daily cost$91/day
Est. flights$773

September

Best
Est. daily cost$91/day
Est. flights$829

January

Best
Est. daily cost$91/day
Est. flights$861

February

Best
Est. daily cost$91/day
Est. flights$757

Save Money in Shoulder Season

Peak Season

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Jan, Feb

Avg. flights$820
Daily cost (mid-range)$91/day
7-day trip total$1457

Shoulder Season

May, Oct, Dec, Mar

Avg. flights$614
Daily cost (mid-range)$91/day
7-day trip total$1251

Fly shoulder season and save ~$206 on flights alone

Money-Saving Tips for Zanzibar

1

Stay on the east coast (Paje, Jambiani) for budget beach guesthouses at $10-20/night

2

Eat at Forodhani Gardens night market in Stone Town for $2-4 seafood meals

3

Walk through Stone Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site, free to explore

4

Take dalla dallas (local minibuses) for $0.50 instead of tourist taxis ($20+)

5

Snorkel from the beach at Mnemba Atoll view points instead of booking a boat

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to visit Zanzibar?

The best months to visit Zanzibar are June, July, August, September, January, February. During these months you'll enjoy the most favorable weather and travel conditions.

What is the cheapest time to visit Zanzibar?

Shoulder season (May, October, December, March) typically offers lower flight prices — around $614 vs $820 during peak season. Budget travellers can spend as little as $28/day on the ground.

What is the weather like in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar has varied weather throughout the year. The best months (June, July, August, September, January, February) generally offer the most pleasant conditions.

Ready to Visit Zanzibar?

Search for flights or let us surprise you with a mystery trip.

Search Flights to ZanzibarPlan a Mystery Trip