Weather: Zanzibar — May
It's a rainy period, but great for indoor activities, museums, and lower prices.
☔ Climate Overview
May is a wet time to visit Zanzibar. Hot conditions with temperatures reaching 29°C—stay hydrated and seek shade. This is one of the wettest months—waterproof gear is essential. Being off-peak, you'll find better deals and fewer crowds. Sea temperature of 28°C is perfect for swimming.
Based on weather comfort, crowds, prices, and activity options
29°C
25°C
15days
11.8h
Feels like 32°C / 28°C — humidity makes it feel warmer
95mm
9.7h/day
81%
Very Muggy6.6
High19 km/h (gusts 32)
28°C 🏊 Comfortable
Is May a good time to visit Zanzibar?
It's a rainy period, but great for indoor activities, museums, and lower prices.
Now
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Air Quality
Travel Context
- CrowdsQuiet
- Travel Costs Value Rates
Daylight
06:25
18:16
Visiting Zanzibar in May: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Abundant sunshine for beach and outdoor fun
- Fewer crowds and better hotel deals
- Warm sea perfect for swimming and snorkeling
Cons
- Frequent rain may disrupt outdoor activities
- High humidity makes the heat feel oppressive
Things to Do in May
Recommended for This Weather
Zanzibar Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rain | Sunshine | Humidity | UV Index | Crowds | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30°C | 27°C | 16d (65mm) | 10.6h | 78% Muggy | 8.6 Very High | | Excellent |
| Feb | 30°C | 27°C | 11d (46mm) | 10.8h | 77% Muggy | 8.8 Very High | | Excellent |
| Mar | 31°C | 26°C | 18d (127mm) | 10.2h | 78% Muggy | 8.2 Very High | | Wet |
| Apr | 29°C | 25°C | 27d (345mm) | 7.7h | 85% Very Muggy | 5.7 High | | Wet |
| May Current | 29°C | 25°C | 15d (95mm) | 9.7h | 81% Very Muggy | 6.6 High | | Wet |
| Jun | 28°C | 24°C | 10d (43mm) | 10.4h | 79% Humid | 6.5 High | | Excellent |
| Jul | 28°C | 23°C | 8d (30mm) | 10.7h | 77% Humid | 6.7 High | | Excellent |
| Aug | 28°C | 23°C | 9d (23mm) | 10.9h | 77% Humid | 7.5 Very High | | Excellent |
| Sep | 28°C | 23°C | 7d (22mm) | 11.2h | 76% Humid | 8.3 Very High | | Excellent |
| Oct | 29°C | 24°C | 9d (49mm) | 11.2h | 77% Muggy | 8.7 Very High | | Excellent |
| Nov | 30°C | 25°C | 18d (116mm) | 11h | 79% Muggy | 8.4 Very High | | Wet |
| Dec | 30°C | 26°C | 22d (102mm) | 11.3h | 79% Muggy | 8.6 Very High | | Excellent |
Zanzibar
Spice island, including Stone Town, Stone Town UNESCO site and Nungwi & Kendwa beaches, white beaches, and turquoise Indian Ocean.
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What to Pack for May
Summer clothing like shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses will be comfortable. Bring a light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces. A waterproof jacket and shoes are non-negotiable — showers are frequent. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen — the sun is strong.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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More Zanzibar Guides
Best Time to Visit
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Things to Do
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Where to Stay
Best neighborhoods and hotel recommendations
Cost & Budget
Daily costs, money-saving tips, and budget breakdown
Itineraries
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Overview
Complete travel guide for Zanzibar: top things to do, itineraries, and typical costs.