Weather Comparison
Dar es Salaam vs Zanzibar
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Dar es Salaam vs Zanzibar
| Metric | Dar es Salaam | Zanzibar | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 28°C (82°F) | 28°C (82°F) | Tie |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 23°C (73°F) | 24°C (75°F)▲ | Zanzibar |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 20 days | 20 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 130 mm▲ | 150 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 | 17 km/h▲ | 18 km/h | Dar es Salaam |
Which City is Better in May?
Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar 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.
Dar es Salaam sits in the comfortable travel range at 28°C. Zanzibar is also comfortable at 28°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in May.
Temperature Comparison in May
Dar es Salaam reaches an average high of 28°C (82°F) and drops to 23°C (73°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Zanzibar averages 28°C (82°F) for the high and 24°C (75°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°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
Dar es Salaam receives approximately 130 mm of rainfall across 20 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Zanzibar sees 150 mm over 20 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.
What to Pack: Dar es Salaam vs Zanzibar
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
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
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: Dar es Salaam vs Zanzibar
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 | Dar es Salaam | Zanzibar | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 31°C | 11d | 30°C | 10d |
| Feb | 31°C | 10d | 31°C | 8d |
| Mar | 30°C | 23d | 30°C | 22d |
| Apr | 29°C | 26d | 29°C | 25d |
| May | 28°C | 20d | 28°C | 20d |
| Jun | 28°C | 9d | 27°C | 11d |
| Jul | 27°C | 6d | 27°C | 8d |
| Aug | 28°C | 7d | 28°C | 7d |
| Sep | 29°C | 7d | 29°C | 7d |
| Oct | 29°C | 12d | 29°C | 11d |
| Nov | 30°C | 18d | 29°C | 18d |
| Dec | 30°C | 18d | 30°C | 20d |
Dar es Salaam Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Zanzibar Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities