Weather in Zanzibar in March

How March compares

March is the 2nd warmest month of the year in Zanzibar and ranks 11th of 134 destinations we compare for March - see where else is hot in March. Against London's average high of 10.5°C in March, Zanzibar is 19.8°C warmer by day and 22.3°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in March

The typical March day in Zanzibar peaks at 30.3°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 31.9°C or more. About 100% of days top 25°C and 1 in 2 pass 30°C. Nights average 25.6°C; one night in ten drops to 24.6°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest March day here reached 35.2°C (2017-03-10) and the coldest night 23.6°C (1993-03-18).

Rain in March

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 21 days with 1 mm or more, 120 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest March was 1997 with 218 mm, the driest 1992 with 40 mm. Humidity averages 79%, which makes the heat feel heavier than the thermometer suggests.

Sea temperature in March

The sea averages 29.0°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 28.3°C to 29.4°C. This is the warmest the sea gets here all year.

Sunshine and daylight

Around 4.7 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 12.0 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:28 and sets about 18:36 local time in mid-March. Average cloud cover is 61%.

Is March a good time to visit Zanzibar?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for Zanzibar on our scoring are September, August, July; months averaging 25°C or more: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Hot days, with little relief at night

The heat is consistent enough to plan your packing around it: every day reaches 25°C, and 61% reach 30°C. With humidity at 79%, light, loose clothing is likely to be more comfortable than anything heavy or close-fitting. Keep energetic plans for the cooler parts of the day and leave room for shade and rest around midday. Evenings remain warm rather than becoming noticeably cool, so do not expect sunset to bring much relief. If you struggle to sleep in heat, prioritise accommodation with effective cooling. March is a better fit for travellers who enjoy sustained warmth than those who want mild conditions for being active outdoors.

Rain is the main compromise

About 21 rainy days makes March a month for flexible plans. That does not mean rain falls continuously, but it does mean you should be comfortable changing outdoor plans when conditions turn wet. The averages do not tell you when rain will arrive, so avoid building your holiday around an assumed dry morning or afternoon. Sunshine averages about 4.7 hours within 12 hours of daylight: there is scope for time outside, but daylight should not be mistaken for sunshine. Pack lightweight rain protection and keep belongings protected from showers. If dependable dry weather is central to your trip, March is a less convincing choice.