Zanzibar Travel Guide
Zanzibar in July: High Season, Weather & Booking Tips
By Haji, your local · updated on 09.10.2026 · 5 min read
Part of our complete Zanzibar travel guideZanzibar in July is high season: it is dry, sunny and pleasant at around 28 °C, the water is clear, and humpback whales pass by off the coast. Because the summer holidays in Europe begin at the same time, good accommodation and tours are snapped up quickly. Plan early and you will experience one of the most beautiful months of the year.
July weather in numbers
| Value | July |
|---|---|
| Daytime high | approx. 28 °C |
| At night | approx. 20 °C |
| Sunshine hours per day | approx. 8 |
| Rainfall | approx. 50 mm on around 7 days |
| Sea temperature | approx. 26 °C |
Long-term averages, rounded. The weather in individual years may differ.
How Zanzibar feels in July
July is the summer you imagine, just without the oppressive heat. A light breeze during the day, and in the evening a mild starry sky – no jumper needed. The white sails of the dhows flash on the water, and with a little luck you will spot the blow of a humpback whale on the horizon.
What works especially well in July
- Humpback whales: from July to October they come to the warm waters off Zanzibar to mate and give birth.
- Boat trips with the best visibility: Blue Safari, Prison Island & Nakupenda.
- Safari in the dry season, when the animals gather at the waterholes: Safari from Zanzibar.
- Kitesurfing in Paje with a strong southeast trade wind.
High season: how to plan smartly
- Secure accommodation and key tours three to six months in advance.
- Start popular boat trips early in the morning, before the big groups arrive. On private tours we set the time according to the tides and the crowds.
- For peace and quiet, choose Matemwe or Jambiani rather than the busy beaches in the north.
- Mwaka Kogwa: the traditional New Year festival in Makunduchi in the south is usually celebrated in July or August.
What does Zanzibar cost in July?
Accommodation and flights are at their most expensive now, with one exception: our tour prices are the same all year round (prices). How to keep your budget under control anyway is explained in How Much Does a Zanzibar Trip Cost?. Families will find tips in Zanzibar with Kids.
Compare with Zanzibar in June and Zanzibar in August or read the month-by-month overview.
Planning a July trip? The earlier, the better. I will put together your route for free.
Frequently asked questions
Is July a good time to visit Zanzibar?+
Yes, one of the best months: dry, sunny, pleasantly warm and with humpback whales off the coast. It is high season, though, so booking early pays off.
How warm is Zanzibar in July?+
Around 28 °C during the day and about 20 °C at night. The sea is around 26 °C.
Can you see whales in Zanzibar in July?+
Yes, from July to October humpback whales pass by off the coast. Sightings are likely but never guaranteed.
How early should I book for July?+
Three to six months in advance, and even earlier for popular accommodation and safaris.