🇰🇪 Nairobi vs Zanzibar 🇹🇿

Nairobi, Kenya vs Zanzibar, Tanzania — a side-by-side climate comparison to help you pick. Zanzibar is the warmer of the two — about 5 degrees warmer on average across the year. Nairobi is drier, with roughly 61 fewer rainy days a year.

Climate at a glance

🇰🇪 Nairobi🇹🇿 Zanzibar
Avg annual high25°C30°C
Hottest monthFebruary (27°C)February (32°C)
Coldest monthJuly (13°C low)August (22°C low)
Rainy days / year255316
SnowRareRare
Best months to visitJune, July, AugustMay, June, July

🇰🇪 Nairobi

Best around June, July, August. Hottest in February (27°C), coldest lows in July (13°C).

🇹🇿 Zanzibar

Best around May, June, July. Hottest in February (32°C), coldest lows in August (22°C).

Frequently asked questions

Is Nairobi or Zanzibar warmer?

Zanzibar is warmer overall, averaging about 5 degrees higher across the year.

Which is rainier, Nairobi or Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is rainier — Nairobi sees about 61 fewer rainy days per year.

When is the best time to visit Nairobi vs Zanzibar?

Nairobi is best around June, July, August; Zanzibar is best around May, June, July.

Not sure? Find your ideal destination by climate →