Zanzibar in March
In March, Zanzibar averages 31°C (89°F) during the day and 26°C (78°F) at night, with frequent rain — about 26 days of the month see precipitation (119 mm total).
Off-peakConditions are warm and beach-friendly. Expect daily rain or showers, often in heavy bursts.
It's peak cyclone season in Zanzibar during March. Travel is possible but expect storm risk, possible flight disruption, and generally lower travel insurance coverage.
How March compares to the rest of the year in Zanzibar
March is one of the warmest months in Zanzibar (2nd of 12) and moderately rainy compared to the rest of the year (7th of 12). Daytime temperature runs 2°C above the annual average (30°C). March runs 1°C cooler than February (32°C) and cools 3°C in April (29°C).
March sunrise & sunset in Zanzibar
Times shown for Zanzibar local time (Africa/Dar_es_Salaam), calculated for the 15th of March. They shift by a few minutes day to day across the month.
Photography light in Zanzibar — March
Golden-hour and blue-hour windows for the 15th of March, in Zanzibar's local time. Use these for soft warm light (golden) or cool architectural twilight (blue).
📅 When to book — Zanzibar in March
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 March's tier (Off-peak) and Zanzibar's popularity.
Crowds & pricing — March in Zanzibar
This is off-peak for Zanzibar — the lowest prices of the year and the fewest crowds, but with real trade-offs: some restaurants, hotels, and beach businesses may close for the season; weather conditions can make outdoor activities unpredictable; and a handful of seasonal sights run reduced hours or close entirely. Great if you prefer a quiet local rhythm and don't mind the climate giving you reasons to choose indoor activities.
Why this tier: peak hazard season (1 active)
Sun & mosquito risk — March 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 — March
Across the year Zanzibar's sea swings from 26.2°C (August) to 29.8°C (December) — March sits at 29.7°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 March weather
🌍 See the full ranked list of climate twins for Zanzibar in March →
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Zanzibar in March?
In March, Zanzibar averages a high of 31°C (89°F) and a low of 26°C (78°F) — generally hot.
Does it rain a lot in Zanzibar in March?
March is quite rainy in Zanzibar, with about 26 rainy days on average.
Is March a good time to visit Zanzibar?
March 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 March?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen, plus a compact umbrella or rain jacket. See the full March packing list for Zanzibar for a complete, climate-based checklist.
Check the live 10-day forecast and sunrise/sunset.