January · Tanzania
Best time to visit Zanzibar in January Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Zanzibar in January
Average temperature 28°C, 77 mm of rain, about 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 76% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
January score
8.6/10
Ranked #6 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 28°C
- Rainfall
- 77 mm
- Humidity
- 76%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 30
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$$ · Peak Season Rates ($$$)
January in Zanzibar scores 8.6/10 for beach and coastal travel - an above-average month (#6 of 12). Expect around 28°C, 77 mm of rain, and roughly 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Zanzibar's Stone Town is a maze of coral-stone houses, carved doors, and spice warehouses, with beaches strung along the island's north and east coasts.
January ranks 6th of 12 for Zanzibar — one of the best windows
January averages 28°C (83°F) and humidity near 76%, so the practical pattern is early mornings, a long midday break, and evenings back outside.
Rainfall runs 77 mm, so plan one flexible day in three; you still get about 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 12.4 hours of daylight.
A 8.6/10 puts this among the year's best months in Zanzibar (6th of 12); only February scores higher, at 9.6/10.
Pack the lightest breathable clothing you own, a hat, and more water than feels necessary, a packable rain layer.
Plan for peak pricing, with crowds are moderate.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Zanzibar in January?
- In January, Zanzibar averages 28°C, 77 mm of rain, and about 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 8.6/10.
- Is January a good time to visit Zanzibar?
- January earns a 8.6/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Zanzibar in January?
- Expect about 77 mm of rain in January. Average humidity is 76% and there are about 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Zanzibar
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Zanzibar
Zanzibar, Tanzania. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.