Weather Comparison
Zanzibar vs Dar es Salaam
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Zanzibar vs Dar es Salaam
| Metric | Zanzibar | Dar es Salaam | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 28°C (82°F) | 28°C (82°F) | Tie |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 24°C (75°F)▲ | 23°C (73°F) | Zanzibar |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 20 days | 20 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 150 mm | 130 mm▲ | Dar es Salaam |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day | 10h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 82% | 82% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 4 | 4 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 18 km/h | 17 km/h▲ | Dar es Salaam |
Which City is Better in May?
Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam are closely matched in May. 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.
Zanzibar sits in the comfortable travel range at 28°C. Dar es Salaam is also comfortable at 28°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in May.
Temperature Comparison in May
Zanzibar reaches an average high of 28°C (82°F) and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Dar es Salaam averages 28°C (82°F) for the high and 23°C (73°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°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 May.
Rainfall Comparison in May
Zanzibar receives approximately 150 mm of rainfall across 20 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Dar es Salaam sees 130 mm over 20 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.
What to Pack: Zanzibar vs Dar es Salaam
Packing for Zanzibar in May
Highs of 28°C, lows of 24°C, 20 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Packing for Dar es Salaam in May
Highs of 28°C, lows of 23°C, 20 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.
Year-Round Comparison: Zanzibar vs Dar es Salaam
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Zanzibar | Dar es Salaam | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 30°C | 10d | 31°C | 11d |
| Feb | 31°C | 8d | 31°C | 10d |
| Mar | 30°C | 22d | 30°C | 23d |
| Apr | 29°C | 25d | 29°C | 26d |
| May | 28°C | 20d | 28°C | 20d |
| Jun | 27°C | 11d | 28°C | 9d |
| Jul | 27°C | 8d | 27°C | 6d |
| Aug | 28°C | 7d | 28°C | 7d |
| Sep | 29°C | 7d | 29°C | 7d |
| Oct | 29°C | 11d | 29°C | 12d |
| Nov | 29°C | 18d | 30°C | 18d |
| Dec | 30°C | 20d | 30°C | 18d |
Zanzibar Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Dar es Salaam Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities