Zanzibar in February at a glance
| Criterion | February in Zanzibar |
|---|---|
| Air | Hot and humid, often 30 °C and above by day |
| Sea | About 28 to 30 °C |
| Rain | Little; short showers possible, the main rains come from March to May |
| Wind | Still usable for kitesurfing at Paje early in the month |
| Ramadan 2027 | Expected start around 8 February, depending on the moon |
| Prices | Lower than at Christmas, with demand still strong |
Ramadan: what changes for visitors
Zanzibar is mostly Muslim. Hotels and beaches stay open, but in Stone Town some restaurants close during the day and it is polite not to eat or drink while walking in the street; cafés in the tourist areas usually stay open. Evenings are lively after the fast is broken. Check the exact dates before booking, as they depend on the moon. For the town, see Stone Town.
Sea, diving and kitesurfing
February is a good month for the sea: warm water and good visibility according to guides. For a snorkelling trip, compare Mnemba and Safari Blue, or read Safari Blue or Mnemba. For scuba diving, see diving in Zanzibar. Wind conditions weaken as March approaches; confirm with a school at Paje.
Prices and booking
After the festive high season, rates drop at many hotels, without reaching the level of April and May. Book the north and east coasts a few weeks ahead. To choose an area, see where to stay in Zanzibar and the budget for Zanzibar.
February, before the March festival
The Sauti za Busara festival is announced for 19 to 21 March 2027, not February; see Sauti za Busara. For the next month, read Zanzibar in March, and for the previous one Zanzibar in January.
FAQ
Is February a good month for Zanzibar?
Yes for the heat, the sea and diving; rain stays limited and prices are a little lower than in December and January.
Is Ramadan in February 2027?
It is expected to start around 8 February; the exact date depends on the moon.
What is the sea temperature in February?
About 28 to 30 °C according to guides.
Is the Sauti za Busara festival in February?
Not in 2027: it is announced for 19 to 21 March.
Going further
See when to visit Zanzibar, Zanzibar in 7 days and Zanzibar's beaches.
