Zanzibar in March at a glance
| Criterion | March in Zanzibar |
|---|---|
| Weather | Hot and humid; main rains starting according to sources, dates vary |
| Sea | Warm, with visibility often lower when the rain arrives |
| Festival | Sauti za Busara announced for 19 to 21 March 2027 |
| Ramadan | Expected to end around 9 March 2027 (depending on the moon) |
| Prices | Lower than in high season |
Sauti za Busara: the highlight of the month
The African music festival was moved to 19 to 21 March 2027 because of Ramadan and Eid. The 2027 venue is not confirmed. Stone Town hotels fill up: book early. See the Sauti za Busara page.
Rain: how to organise
Rain is often a heavy shower rather than a whole day. Keep mornings for outings: Stone Town, Prison Island or a visit to a spice farm, which are easier to move around. For fallback ideas, read Zanzibar when it rains. Sea trips (Mnemba, Safari Blue) depend on sea conditions: ask about the cancellation policy before paying.
Sea and diving
Visibility drops once the rain sets in. If diving is your goal, see diving in Zanzibar and ask the club about current conditions.
Prices, hotels and closures
Rates drop, except around the festival. Some hotels reduce activity or close in April and May; March is the last safe month. See where to stay in Zanzibar and the budget for Zanzibar.
FAQ
Does it rain a lot in Zanzibar in March?
According to sources the main rains start in March; they settle in mostly in April and May.
When is Sauti za Busara in 2027?
19 to 21 March 2027 according to the latest announcement. Check the festival website.
Can you swim in March?
Yes, the sea is warm, but rough seas can cancel trips.
Going further
Compare with Zanzibar in February, read when to visit Zanzibar and plan your stay with Zanzibar in 4 days.
