Dar es Salaam vs Zanzibar

Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar are closely matched in January. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Dar es Salaam can feel quite hot at 32°C, so plan for heat. Zanzibar runs hot at 32°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in January.

Dar es Salaam reaches an average high of 32°C (90°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Zanzibar averages 32°C (90°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Southern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Dar es Salaam receives approximately 201 mm of rainfall across 17 rain days during January. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Zanzibar sees 201 mm over 17 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.