2026 Climate Averages

Weather: Zanzibar — November

It's a rainy period, but great for indoor activities, museums, and lower prices.

Climate Overview

November is a wet time to visit Zanzibar. Hot conditions with temperatures reaching 30°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.

6.8
GoTripzi Score Good

Based on weather comfort, crowds, prices, and activity options

Avg High

30°C

Avg Low

25°C

Rainy days

18days

Daylight

12.4h

Feels like 35°C / 30°C — humidity makes it feel warmer

Rainfall

116mm

Sunshine

11h/day

Humidity

79%

Muggy
Sun Strength

8.4

Very High
Wind

16 km/h (gusts 27)

Sea Temp

28°C 🏊 Comfortable

Is November 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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Feels like --
Wind --
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Local time

Air Quality

Travel Context

  • Crowds
    Quiet
  • Travel Costs Shoulder Rates

Daylight

Sunrise

05:57

Sunset

18:20

12.4h daylight

Visiting Zanzibar in November: 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
  • Very high UV — sunscreen and shade essential

Things to Do in November

Recommended for This Weather

🏊 Swimming & beach activities
🤿 Snorkeling & water sports
🏖️ Beach relaxation & sunbathing
🏛️ Museums & galleries
🍳 Cooking classes & food tours
🎭 Cultural tours & local experiences

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 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 Current 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

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5
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3
Your Best MonthMayScore: 8.5

Where to Stay

See hotels, apartments & rentals around Zanzibar – live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo and more

Zanzibar

Spice island, including Stone Town, Stone Town UNESCO site and Nungwi & Kendwa beaches, white beaches, and turquoise Indian Ocean.

View Full Destination Guide

What to Pack for November

Light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are essential. Opt for loose-fitting clothing in light colors to stay cool. 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.

Tropical Quiet

🎒Personalized Packing List

Tell us about your trip and we'll create a custom packing list based on the weather.

Your Packing List

📋Essentials
👕Clothing
👟Footwear
🎒Accessories
🧴Toiletries & Health

Planning a trip to Zanzibar?

💰 Off-peak — great deals available now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is November a good time to visit Zanzibar?
November is typically wet for visiting Zanzibar, with average highs of 30°C and around 18 rainy days. Plan your activities accordingly—outdoor sightseeing is best on dry days, while rainy days are perfect for museums and indoor attractions.
Does it get cold at night in Zanzibar in November?
Nights stay pleasantly warm in Zanzibar during November, around 25°C. Light evening wear is sufficient, and outdoor dining is very comfortable. Many locals and visitors enjoy late-night walks and outdoor activities after sunset.
What should I pack for Zanzibar in November?
With highs of 30°C and lows of 25°C in November, we recommend: Compact umbrella, Waterproof jacket/shell, Water-resistant shoes, Lightweight breathable clothes. Layering is key as temperatures can vary between air-conditioned interiors and outdoors. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestone streets.
Does it rain a lot in Zanzibar in November?
Zanzibar typically sees around 18 rainy days in November. Rain is usually in the form of brief showers rather than all-day downpours, so a compact umbrella is sufficient. Mornings tend to be drier, making them ideal for outdoor sightseeing.
Can you swim in Zanzibar in November?
Yes, November is excellent for swimming in Zanzibar! With warm air temperatures around 30°C, the water is comfortable for extended beach sessions. This is peak beach season, so arrive early to secure a good spot at popular beaches.
How many hours of daylight are there in Zanzibar in November?
In November, Zanzibar gets approximately 12.4 hours of daylight per day. This affects how much sightseeing you can fit in—longer days mean more time for outdoor activities, while shorter days are perfect for cozy museum visits and early dinners.
Is November peak season in Zanzibar?
No, November is not peak season in Zanzibar. Expect better value on accommodation, shorter queues at attractions, and fewer tourists at popular spots. This is an excellent time to experience the city like a local and enjoy a more authentic atmosphere.

Weather Data: Based on 2020–2025 historical climate data from Open-Meteo

Solar calculations: SunCalc (timezone: Africa/Dar_es_Salaam)

Last Updated: February 2026