Zanzibar in February
In February, Zanzibar averages 32°C (90°F) during the day and 26°C (79°F) at night, with frequent rain — about 19 days of the month see precipitation (34 mm total).
ShoulderConditions are warm and beach-friendly. Expect daily rain or showers, often in heavy bursts.
It's peak cyclone season in Zanzibar during February. Travel is possible but expect storm risk, possible flight disruption, and generally lower travel insurance coverage.
How February compares to the rest of the year in Zanzibar
February is one of the warmest months in Zanzibar (1st of 12) and one of the driest months (12th of 12). Daytime temperature runs 2°C above the annual average (30°C). February runs 1°C warmer than January (31°C) and cools 1°C in March (31°C).
February sunrise & sunset in Zanzibar
Times shown for Zanzibar local time (Africa/Dar_es_Salaam), calculated for the 15th of February. They shift by a few minutes day to day across the month.
Photography light in Zanzibar — February
Golden-hour and blue-hour windows for the 15th of February, in Zanzibar's local time. Use these for soft warm light (golden) or cool architectural twilight (blue).
📅 When to book — Zanzibar in February
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 February's tier (Shoulder) and Zanzibar's popularity.
Crowds & pricing — February 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.
Why this tier: Southern Hemisphere summer holidays peak hazard season (1 active)
Sun & mosquito risk — February 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 — February
Across the year Zanzibar's sea swings from 26.2°C (August) to 29.8°C (December) — February sits at 29.5°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 February weather
🌍 See the full ranked list of climate twins for Zanzibar in February →
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Zanzibar in February?
In February, Zanzibar averages a high of 32°C (90°F) and a low of 26°C (79°F) — generally hot.
Does it rain a lot in Zanzibar in February?
February is quite rainy in Zanzibar, with about 19 rainy days on average.
Is February a good time to visit Zanzibar?
February is hot but on the rainy side. It suits travelers who are comfortable with hot weather; check the month-by-month ranking to compare it against the rest of the year.
What should I pack for Zanzibar in February?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen, plus a compact umbrella or rain jacket. See the full February packing list for Zanzibar for a complete, climate-based checklist.
Check the live 10-day forecast and sunrise/sunset.