Zanzibar City Weather in May
In Zanzibar City, May brings high daytime temperatures around 29°C (84°F), with nights cooling to 25°C (77°F). Expect quite a bit of rainfall this month.
Rainfall in Zanzibar City in May
Expect around 15 days of rain based on historical data, with 166 mm (6.5 in) average. This is a wet month with frequent and often heavy showers. Both the number of rain days and the total rainfall are high.
Temperature in Zanzibar City in May
In May, Zanzibar City sees high temperatures, with highs of 29°C (84°F). Nights drop to around 25°C (77°F). The days can feel warmer than the evenings, so packing for both parts of the day is a good idea. At 25°C (77°F) overnight, it stays warm after dark. Light, breathable clothing and good airflow in your room make a noticeable difference.For Zanzibar City itself, June, July, August and September generally stand out with the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Tanzania, check out our Zanzibar City's climate page.
Zanzibar City Temperature in May
Min Temperature
25°C (77°F)
Max Temperature
29°C (84°F)
Chance of Rain
51%
Precipitation
166 mm (6.5 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Daily Historical Temperatures
45-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Zanzibar City typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 29°C (84°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 23°C (73°F).
Average temperatures in May
Daily Historical Precipitation
45-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in May
Historical weather for Zanzibar City in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Zanzibar City spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Zanzibar City historical weather extremes in May
Based on 21 years of weather observations in Zanzibar City between 2004 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- The hottest May day on record in Zanzibar City reached 33°C (91°F) (May 17, 2024).
- The lowest daytime temperature in May was 25°C (77°F), recorded on May 30, 2007.
- The lowest overnight temperature recorded in May was 16°C (61°F) (May 2, 2014).
Best Places in Tanzania in May
Find out more about the weather in Tanzania and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Tanzania in May →
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What to Wear in Zanzibar City in May
Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in May. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can.What To Do in Zanzibar City in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Tanzania, check out our Zanzibar City's climate page.
See the full Zanzibar City climate overview or explore weather in Tanzania.
