If you’re wondering whether July is a good time to visit Zanzibar, the short answer is:
Absolutely, yes!
But don’t just take our word for it. We live and breathe this island, and July is honestly one of our favorite months for exploring everything Zanzibar has to offer.
From the crystal-clear waters of Mnemba Atoll to the sunset dhow cruises in Stone Town, July brings perfect weather, fewer mosquitoes, and a calm, breezy vibe that makes your holiday magical.
Let us walk you through exactly what to expect and how to make the most out of your trip.
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Zanzibar Weather in July: Dry, Sunny, and Perfect for Beach Days
July marks the heart of Zanzibar’s dry season, which locals call the “cool season” (but trust us, it’s still wonderfully warm for swimming and sunbathing!).
- Average Daytime Temperature: 26–29°C (79–84°F)
- Night Temperature: 20–23°C (68–73°F)
- Rainfall: Almost none
- Humidity: Comfortable and low
- Ocean Conditions: Calm, clear, ideal for snorkeling & diving
This weather means no sudden rains, no muddy roads, and clear skies almost every day—perfect for island hopping, spice farm tours, and relaxing on the beach.
Blue-Green Tip: Early mornings and late afternoons are amazing for photos—the light is golden, and the breeze is cool.
Best Things to Do in Zanzibar in July
Here’s what we recommend (and can arrange!) for an unforgettable July adventure:
1. Swim with Dolphins at Mnemba
Dolphin sightings are frequent, the ocean is calm, and visibility underwater is top-notch. We leave early to avoid the crowds and respect the dolphins’ space.
2. Snorkel or Dive at Mnemba Atoll
With calm waters and 20m+ visibility, July is peak snorkeling time. Expect coral gardens, tropical fish, and sometimes even sea turtles.
3. Visit Nakupenda Sandbank
This slice of paradise appears like magic during low tide. Enjoy seafood BBQ, sunbathing, and turquoise waters. In July, the sand stays cool underfoot, and the ocean breeze is refreshing.
4. Explore Stone Town
Cooler July temperatures make walking through historic alleys enjoyable. Discover spice markets, Sultan’s Palace, Freddie Mercury’s home, and more.
5. Sunset Dhow Cruise
Calm July seas make dhow sailing smooth and romantic. Sip on fresh juice or wine as the sun dips below the horizon.
6. Spice Farm Tour
The dry weather means easy, comfortable walking through spice plantations. Smell, touch, and taste Zanzibar’s world-famous cloves, vanilla, and cardamom.
Want a fully custom itinerary? We do that too! You dream it—we make it happen.
Why July Is a Smart Month to Travel
Let’s break it down from a planner’s perspective:
| Category | Why July is Great |
|---|---|
| Weather | Cool, dry, breezy – perfect for touring |
| Wildlife | High dolphin activity, sea turtles visible |
| Crowds | Less crowded than August |
| Prices | Fair – not low season, but still value-packed |
Where to Stay in July
You’ll want to book in advance—July is popular, especially with travelers from Europe and the Gulf.
We recommend:
- North (Nungwi/Kendwa) – Great beaches, lively vibe, best sunsets
- East (Paje/Jambiani) – Laid-back, perfect for kitesurfers and couples
- Stone Town – Culture, history, and easy access to the airport
Not sure what suits you? Our team at Blue-Green Zanzibar Tours helps travelers match with the perfect beach and accommodation, whether it’s luxury, boutique, or budget-friendly.
5 Must-Do Activities in July from our List
1. Zanzibar Safari Blue Tour
This scenic half- or full-day boat expedition explores nearby islets with mangrove channels and marine life viewing. Perfect for July’s calm seas!
2. Sunset Dhow Cruise
Set sail on a traditional dhow at dusk, sip juices or wine, and watch the sunset paint the horizon. Ideal for those romantic July evenings.
3. Jozani Forest & Cave Swimming Tour Combination
Combine a walk through Jozani’s lush mangrove forest—home to Zanzibar red colobus monkeys—with a refreshing dip in a limestone cave pool. A unique July treat when forests are vibrant.
4. Horse Riding in Zanzibar
Gallop along secluded beaches or through coastal trails on horseback. With July’s pleasant temperatures, it’s the perfect time for an equestrian adventure.
5. Quad Biking in Zanzibar
Thrill-seekers can enjoy a July-day ride along dusty coastal roads, villages, and farm tracks, for a fun mix of speed, culture, and scenery.
July Highlights: Why These Activities Shine
- Ideal Weather: July offers dry, sunny conditions—perfect for forest walks, beach rides, and water trips.
- Calm Seas: Seamless boat experiences on the Safari Blue and dhow cruise, with clear waters making marine life and sunset views turn pro-level.
- Scenic Variety: Combine beach, forest, cave, and village terrain in your July itinerary.
- Local Insight: Blue‑Green Zanzibar Tours ensures seamless logistics, expert guides, personalized timing (to catch best light and less crowds), and top-notch safety.
Final Word: Is July a Good Time to Visit Zanzibar?
Absolutely. The weather is perfect. The sea is warm. The sunsets are unforgettable. And the vibe? Magical.
If you’re dreaming of Zanzibar, July might just be your golden ticket.
Don’t wait—the island fills up fast in July.
Let Blue-Green Zanzibar Tours create the perfect experience just for you.
