Last updated: August 28, 2025
In Zanzibar, Tanzania, December brings a warm climate characterized by maximum temperatures reaching 31°C (89°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), creating a perfect ambiance for beach lovers. Despite the enticing weather, this month also sees high humidity levels at 85%, contributing to a tropical atmosphere. However, travelers should be prepared for the possibility of rain, as precipitation totals around 137 mm (5.4 in) over approximately 26 rainy days. Embrace the lush beauty and vibrant culture of Zanzibar, while keeping an eye on the skies!
In December, Zanzibar basks in warm tropical climes, with temperatures typically ranging from a comfortable 24°C (76°F) at night to a lively 31°C (89°F) during the day. The average temperature holds steady at 28°C (83°F), marking it as a month of consistent warmth as the year draws to a close. This month sees a slight uptick in temperatures compared to November, reinforcing a trend of rising warmth from the cooler months of the dry season. With the humidity beginning to climb slightly, December sets the stage for a vibrant holiday atmosphere, perfect for exploring the island’s stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage.
December in Zanzibar marks a transition into the peak of the rainy season, with precipitation levels rising significantly. The island experiences an average rainfall of 137 mm (5.4 in) over approximately 26 days of the month, showcasing a consistent trend of increasing precipitation from the months prior. This uptick follows November's rainfall of 112 mm (4.4 in) over 22 days, hinting at a pattern of intensified rain leading into the year's end. The rainfall in December, alongside the bustling atmosphere of the holiday season, transforms Zanzibar's lush landscapes, making it a vibrant time to witness nature's beauty. With the combination of prolonged rainy days and increased moisture, December creates a rich tapestry of life on the island, offering visitors a glimpse into the dynamic climate that shapes both the environment and the local culture.
In Zanzibar, Tanzania, December ushers in a warm and humid embrace with a humidity level of 85%, reflecting a slight increase from the previous month. This culmination of the year sits comfortably within the higher humidity spectrum, as seen in earlier months like May (86%) and November (84%). While the island typically experiences a fluctuation in humidity, December's figures mark a resurgence after the drier spells of the late winter and early spring months. This trend paints a vivid picture of Zanzibar's tropical charm, enticing visitors with its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, all amidst the rich, humid air characteristic of the region as it transitions into the new year.
In December, Zanzibar continues the trend of extreme UV exposure, maintaining a high UV Index of 13 that demands caution from sun-seekers. With a critical burn time of just 10 minutes, visitors should take necessary precautions to protect their skin. This month joins a line of sun-soaked preceding months, from January through November, where the UV Index has hovered around 13 to 14, marking a consistent call for vigilance against sunburn. For anyone looking to enjoy the island's stunning beaches, it's essential to understand these levels of solar intensity. For more insights, check the full details at Zanzibar UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Zanzibar, Tanzania, shines brightly with an impressive 354 hours of sunshine, marking it as one of the sunniest months of the year. Following a gradual upward trend from the earlier months, December stands out distinctly, reflecting the region's shift toward the peak of the warm season. From January's 288 hours, there is a consistent increase, culminating in a remarkable high in December. Each passing month brings more daylight, with October and November also showcasing abundant sunshine, making this tropical paradise an irresistible destination for sun-seekers. As the year closes, December's radiant days invite visitors to bask in the warmth and beauty of Zanzibar's stunning beaches and vibrant culture.
In December, Zanzibar experiences a moderate likelihood of sunny weather, with a 48% chance of sunshine gracing the island. This places December in a unique position, slightly cooler than the sunniest months like October and November, which enjoy an impressive 66% chance of sun. Notably, December's sun probability continues the trend observed from late spring, but it dips slightly compared to the heights of August to October. The chance of clear skies does make December a favorable time for travelers seeking a blend of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, as the island transitions into its rainy season while still offering ample opportunities to bask under the tropical sun.
In Zanzibar, Tanzania, the daylight duration exhibits a fascinating consistency throughout the year. From January to March, residents and visitors enjoy a generous 12 hours of sunlight daily, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploring the stunning beaches and rich culture. As the year progresses into April through August, daylight slightly declines to 11 hours, echoing the quieter and more introspective mood of the rainy season. However, this dip is short-lived, as the island rebounds to a full 12 hours of daylight from September to November, illuminating the landscape once more. By December, the cycle completes with 12 hours of radiant sunshine, inviting holidaymakers to bask in its warmth and beauty. Overall, this rhythmic pattern ensures that Zanzibar remains a sun-soaked paradise, ideal for year-round activities and relaxation.
As December sweeps into Zanzibar, the island experiences a noticeable dip in its average wind speed, dropping to 2.7 m/s (6 mph)—the calmest month of the year. This subtle shift signals the end of a breezy season, where winds peaked in July at 5.1 m/s (12 mph), providing exhilarating conditions for water sports and beachgoers. Throughout the year, wind speeds have shown a trend of fluctuating gently, from a high in July to a gradual decrease, culminating in December's tranquil breezes. As the year winds down, the lighter air invites a more serene atmosphere, making it an ideal time for relaxation on the sun-kissed shores.
Weather in Zanzibar varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Zanzibar, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January in Zanzibar present a notable contrast in weather conditions. December sees slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and a maximum of 31°C (89°F), while January warms up, reaching a maximum of 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in December, accumulating 137 mm (5.4 in) over 26 days, compared to January’s 52 mm (2.0 in) over just 13 days. Humidity levels remain fairly high in both months, with December at 85% and January slightly lower at 82%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Zanzibar weather in January.
In December, the weather in Zanzibar is characterized by slightly cooler temperatures, with minimums around 24°C (76°F) and maximums reaching 31°C (89°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with 137 mm (5.4 in) spread over 26 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 85%. In contrast, February sees a slight increase in minimum temperatures to 25°C (78°F) and even warmer maximums peaking at 33°C (91°F). Rainfall is considerably less in February, totaling only 59 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days, leading to a more comfortable humidity level of 78%. For more details, visit Zanzibar weather in February.
In December, temperatures in Zanzibar range from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 28°C (83°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with total precipitation of 137 mm (5.4 in) spread over 26 days and high humidity levels at 85%.
In contrast, March sees similar average temperatures at 28°C (83°F), but a slightly warmer maximum of 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 133 mm (5.2 in), occurring over 20 days, and the humidity drops to 76%. Overall, while both months are warm and humid, March tends to be a bit drier and hotter compared to December. For more details, you can check Zanzibar weather in March.
In comparing the weather between December and April, both months experience warm temperatures, but April tends to be slightly warmer overall. December has a minimum temperature of 24°C and an average of 28°C, peaking at 31°C, while April maintains a similar minimum but averages a bit cooler at 27°C, with a higher maximum of 33°C. Precipitation also significantly differs; December sees 137 mm over 26 days, whereas April is wetter with 276 mm across 28 days. Additionally, humidity is relatively high in both months, but it's slightly lower in April at 79% compared to December's 85%. For more detailed insights about April's weather, visit Zanzibar weather in April.
When comparing December and May weather in Zanzibar, both months exhibit warm temperatures, but December tends to be slightly warmer overall. In December, the minimum temperature is around 24°C (76°F) with an average of 28°C (83°F) and a maximum of 31°C (89°F). In contrast, May has a slightly cooler average temperature of 26°C (79°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with a minimum of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is notably higher in May, with 225 mm (8.8 in) falling over 22 days, compared to December's 137 mm (5.4 in) across 26 days. Humidity levels are similar, with December at 85% and May a touch higher at 86%. For a detailed look at May's weather, you can check Zanzibar weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December to June, December tends to be warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F). In contrast, June offers slightly cooler conditions, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F). Additionally, December experiences significantly higher precipitation, with 137 mm (5.4 in) falling over 26 days, while June sees only 45 mm (1.8 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar in both months, at 85% in December and 84% in June. For more details on June's weather, you can check Zanzibar weather in June.
December generally presents warmer and more humid conditions compared to July. With average temperatures peaking at 28°C (83°F) and often reaching a maximum of 31°C (89°F), December tends to feel hotter. In contrast, July's average temperature is slightly cooler at 25°C (78°F), with maximum temperatures reaching 29°C (85°F). Additionally, December experiences significantly higher rainfall, with 137 mm (5.4 in) over 26 days, while July sees a mere 31 mm (1.2 in) over just 10 days. The humidity remains relatively high in both months, with December at 85% and July at 80%. For more detailed insights, you can check Zanzibar weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, it's clear that December experiences warmer temperatures, with an average of 28°C (83°F) and a maximum of 31°C (89°F), while August has slightly cooler temperatures, averaging 25°C (78°F) and peaking at 30°C (86°F). Precipitation also differs significantly; December sees 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain over 26 days, making it a much wetter month, whereas August has a much drier climate with only 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain over just 11 days. Humidity levels are higher in December at 85%, compared to 74% in August, contributing to a noticeably muggy feel in the former. For more insights, check Zanzibar weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, December tends to be warmer and significantly wetter. December's average temperature is higher at 28°C (83°F), with maximum temperatures reaching 31°C (89°F), while September averages a cooler 26°C (79°F). Additionally, December experiences considerably more rainfall with 137 mm (5.4 in) over 26 days, compared to September's 35 mm (1.4 in) across just 14 days. The humidity also increases in December, averaging 85% compared to September's 73%. For more details on the weather specifics, you can check Zanzibar weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, December boasts slightly warmer temperatures with an average of 28°C (83°F) compared to October's 26°C (80°F). Both months experience similar maximum temperatures of around 31°C (89°F), but October tends to have milder minimums at 23°C (73°F) against December's 24°C (76°F). Precipitation is more abundant in December, with 137 mm (5.4 in) falling over 26 days, while October sees less rain at 92 mm (3.6 in) over 16 days. Additionally, December's humidity is notably higher at 85%, compared to October's 75%, making the latter month somewhat more comfortable overall. For more details on October weather, check Zanzibar weather in October.
In comparing the weather patterns of December and November, December tends to be slightly warmer overall, with an average temperature of 28°C (83°F), compared to November's average of 27°C (81°F). While both months maintain a minimum temperature of 24°C (76°F), December has a slightly lower maximum temperature of 31°C (89°F) versus November’s 32°C (90°F). Precipitation levels increase in December, reaching 137 mm (5.4 in) over 26 days, whereas November sees 112 mm (4.4 in) across 22 days. Humidity remains fairly consistent, with December at 85% and November at 84%. For a more detailed look at November's weather, you can visit Zanzibar weather in November.
As December unfolds in Zanzibar, it ushers in a unique weather pattern that sets it apart from other months of the year. With a warm average temperature hovering around 28°C (83°F) and high humidity levels reaching 85%, the island experiences a notably sultry atmosphere. This time of year is characterized by frequent rainfall, with precipitation occurring on nearly 26 days, which significantly distinguishes December from the drier months. The lush landscapes brought to life by these showers create a vibrant backdrop for visitors, making it an excellent time to enjoy Zanzibar's natural beauty. For a more detailed understanding of the weather, check out Zanzibar Climate.