Zanzibar in August
In August, Zanzibar averages 28°C (83°F) during the day and 22°C (72°F) at night, with frequent rain — about 28 days of the month see precipitation (34 mm total).
ShoulderConditions are warm and beach-friendly. Expect daily rain or showers, often in heavy bursts.
August offers comfortable temperatures in Zanzibar, with some rain to plan around.
How August compares to the rest of the year in Zanzibar
August is in the middle of the year for warmth in Zanzibar (9th of 12) and moderately rainy compared to the rest of the year (4th of 12). Daytime temperature runs 1°C below the annual average (30°C). August runs 1°C warmer than July (27°C) and warms a further 1°C into September (29°C).
August sunrise & sunset in Zanzibar
Times shown for Zanzibar local time (Africa/Dar_es_Salaam), calculated for the 15th of August. They shift by a few minutes day to day across the month.
Photography light in Zanzibar — August
Golden-hour and blue-hour windows for the 15th of August, in Zanzibar's local time. Use these for soft warm light (golden) or cool architectural twilight (blue).
📅 When to book — Zanzibar in August
Travel writers usually only tell you when to go. Here's when to book flights and lodging for the best mix of price and availability, based on August's tier (Shoulder) and Zanzibar's popularity.
Crowds & pricing — August in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is in a shoulder season month — fewer crowds, slightly lower prices, and a calmer atmosphere than peak weeks. Most major sights stay open with normal hours, though a handful of seasonal restaurants or boat trips may run reduced schedules. Many regulars consider these months the best time to visit because you trade a small amount of weather reliability for a much more pleasant on-the-ground experience.
Sun & mosquito risk — August in Zanzibar
UV is a clear-sky sea-level estimate — clouds, altitude, and reflective surfaces (snow, water) shift it ±30%. Mosquito risk is climate-derived only; for current disease advisories (dengue, malaria, zika) check the CDC or WHO travel pages before your trip.
Sea temperature in Zanzibar — August
Across the year Zanzibar's sea swings from 26.2°C (August) to 29.8°C (December) — August sits at 26.2°C.
Zanzibar in other months
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Rainfall | Rain days | Snow days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31°C / 88°F | 26°C / 78°F | 42 mm | 23 | — |
| February | 32°C / 90°F | 26°C / 79°F | 34 mm | 19 | — |
| March | 31°C / 89°F | 26°C / 78°F | 119 mm | 26 | — |
| April | 29°C / 84°F | 25°C / 76°F | 317 mm | 30 | — |
| May | 28°C / 82°F | 24°C / 76°F | 166 mm | 29 | — |
| June | 28°C / 82°F | 23°C / 74°F | 44 mm | 26 | — |
| July | 27°C / 81°F | 23°C / 73°F | 40 mm | 28 | — |
| August | 28°C / 83°F | 22°C / 72°F | 34 mm | 28 | — |
| September | 29°C / 85°F | 22°C / 72°F | 42 mm | 26 | — |
| October | 30°C / 86°F | 23°C / 74°F | 92 mm | 27 | — |
| November | 30°C / 86°F | 24°C / 76°F | 135 mm | 28 | — |
| December | 31°C / 87°F | 25°C / 78°F | 90 mm | 26 | — |
Other cities with similar August weather
🌍 See the full ranked list of climate twins for Zanzibar in August →
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Zanzibar in August?
In August, Zanzibar averages a high of 28°C (83°F) and a low of 22°C (72°F) — generally warm.
Does it rain a lot in Zanzibar in August?
August is quite rainy in Zanzibar, with about 28 rainy days on average.
Is August a good time to visit Zanzibar?
August is warm but on the rainy side. It suits travelers who are comfortable with warm weather; check the month-by-month ranking to compare it against the rest of the year.
What should I pack for Zanzibar in August?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen, plus a compact umbrella or rain jacket. See the full August packing list for Zanzibar for a complete, climate-based checklist.
Check the live 10-day forecast and sunrise/sunset.