Zanzibar in April in brief
| Criterion | April in Zanzibar |
|---|---|
| Rain | Long rains; wettest month according to guides |
| Air | About 30 °C, very humid |
| Sea | About 29 °C, rougher |
| Crowds | Very low |
| Prices | Among the lowest of the year |
| Public holiday | Tanzanian Union Day on 26 April |
Rain, sea and excursions
Keep mornings for outings: Stone Town, Prison Island or a spice farm are easy to move. Boat trips (Mnemba, Safari Blue) are cancelled when the sea is bad: ask about the refund policy before paying. For diving and snorkelling, visibility is often lower: see diving in Zanzibar.
Hotels and budget
Several hotels scale down or close in April and May; confirm that yours is open and that the restaurant, pool and excursions are running. Rates fall sharply compared with high season. See where to stay in Zanzibar and the budget in Zanzibar.
What to do when it rains
Museums, covered markets, spa and long meals: see Zanzibar when it rains.
FAQ
Is April the worst month to go to Zanzibar?
It is the wettest, so the least reliable for the beach; it mainly suits you if you are after low prices.
Does it rain all day?
Often not: showers are heavy but often brief.
Can you swim?
Yes, the sea is warm, but waves and the tide can limit swimming.
Going further
Compare with Zanzibar in March and Zanzibar in May, then read when to visit Zanzibar.
